Garbage disposals are excellent at removing discarded food matter rather than filling—and stinking up—the kitchen garbage can. So, if your disposal isn't working properly or has to be replaced, you'll want to take care of it right away. Although replacing a garbage disposal may appear to be a plumber's job, it simply takes a few steps and the connections are simple to make. The most difficult phase is lifting the unit into position, but an assistant or carjack can aid. Learn how to replace a garbage disposal switch reading further. 

Do this before you begin

One of the most crucial aspects of installing a garbage disposal is making sure the sink components are in the proper sequence. Starting within the sink and working below, the parts are piled vertically in the following order:

Above sink

• Sink stopper.

• Removable rubber splash guard.

• Threaded sink flange

• Plumbers' putty

Below Sink

• Fiber gaskets

• Backup flange ring (triangle-shaped)

• Accessories include a mounting ring, a metal snap ring, and garbage disposal

When should you Replace a Garbage Disposal?

It may be necessary to replace the garbage disposal when:

• It has a lingering stench that won't disappear.

• You often reset the disposal.

• Water is leaking from the disposal body, not the surrounding pipes or tubes.

• Unusual, loud sounds occur from the disposal, even when it has been cleared.

• The garbage disposal can't be turned on.

Safety aspects to consider before you start 

Turn off the circuit breaker for the electrical outlet underneath the kitchen sink. When lifting the unit into place, avoid placing your head or body under it, as it may fall and injure you.

Step by step guide to replace a garbage disposal switch

1. Switch off power: Turn off the power at the circuit breaker or fuse box. Unplug the existing garbage disposal from the outlet under the sink.

2. Disconnect Hoses and Pipes: Disconnect the drain trap from the waste discharge tube of the existing disposal unit. Disconnect the dishwasher from the disposal as well.

3. Loosen mounting ring: Provide support for the disposal's bottom. Turn the mounting ring by inserting the current unit's S-shaped wrench (if available) or a comparable sized Alen ring. The disposal will no longer be tight.

4. Remove the mounting assembly from the sink: Under the sink, unscrew the screws on the bottom of the present mounting assembly with a flathead screwdriver. Using the screwdriver, take off the wire snap ring. Except for the sink flange, remove all remaining items underneath the sink.

5. Remove the Flange: Pry up the sink flange from above. Remove the existing plumber's putty from the sink drain hole with your fingers or a putty knife.

6. Add a New Flange: Roll out a 1/2-inch-thick strip of new plumber's putty with your hands. Create a circle that fits around the bottom (thread side) of the new flange. Insert securely into the drain hole. Using a fingernail, peel away the extra putty.

7. Include mounting assembly components: From below the sink, add the following to the threaded flange, in order:

• Fiber gasket.

• Backup flange ring (triangular-shaped)

• Mounting ring.

• Metal snap ring

Open the metal snap ring by hand to make it wider, then snap it into position. Tighten the three screws on the backup flange.

8. Connect Discharge Tube to Disposal: Before installing the disposal, attach the disposal tube to the disposal's side. To attach the tube, use the two bolts and gasket provided. Make sure the tube is pointed downwards.

9. Connect disposal to mounting assembly: Allow your helper to assist you with this stage. Lift the disposal and attach its three mounting tabs to the three slides on the mounting assembly. If you're working by yourself, use a scissor-style automobile jack to raise the disposal. Rotate the mounting ring until the three mounting tabs lock into position over the corresponding ridges on the slides of the mounting assembly. Connect the disposal's discharge tube to the house's remaining drain line pipes.

10. Include Splash Guard: Push the rubber splash guard down into the sink flange from above. Then it’s time to test the Garbage Disposal. Insert the disposal cord into the outlet. Return the circuit to its normal operation. Run water for 30 seconds, then turn on the disposal from the switch to test it.

Best garbage disposal switch by AquaNu Tech

The AquaNu Tech Air Switch is more than just aesthetically pleasing; it is also practical and compatible with all disposal systems, making it an ideal fit for any sink or countertop installation. The kit includes a dual power module with a grounded outlet, a 5 ft. air tube, a powerline, and set screws, ensuring a simple installation. It provides a secure, waterproof, and anti-leak experience thanks to its small and useful dimensions (2.5 inches high x 1.75 inches in diameter on top x 1.25 inches in diameter on the bottom). The AquaNu Tech Garbage Disposal Air Switch brings elegance and ease to your kitchen.