Do I need a plumber to install a garbage disposal? 

If you’re constantly dealing with a clogged kitchen sink, it’s about time you consider installing a garbage disposal in your home. A garbage disposal is installed under the sink to grind up food waste, making it easy to be washed down the drain. There is one dilemma almost every homeowner encounter when it comes to installing a garbage disposal; why do you call to install it, a plumber or electrician? More importantly, do you need to hire a plumber to install your new garbage disposal or is it something you can do yourself? 

Well, let’s find out! 

Who installs a garbage disposal: Electrician or a plumber? 

A garbage disposal can be installed by plumbers and experienced DIYers since it’s a plumbing appliance. So, if you have experience with DIY projects, you can install the unit yourself. However, if you’ve limited plumbing experience or are unsure about any part of the garbage disposal installation process, I’d recommend you hire a professional plumber instead of an electrician.

Here’s why!  

First of all, installing a garbage disposal cab is a time-consuming and complex process, both for beginners and electricians. This is because various components should be connected properly to avoid blockages, leaks, and other plumbing problems. Some of these components include; the sink flange, mounting assembly, and the discharge pipe. 

Secondly, garbage disposal installation is not a one-size-fits-all process. Instead, the installation process usually varies depending on the model and make of the garbage disposal. For instance, some units come with a pre-installed power cord, while others require a separate switch for their power supply. Luckily, plumbers are familiar with the specific installation instructions of various garbage disposal models. 

In addition, plumbers are more knowledgeable than electricians when it comes to garbage disposal installation. For instance, they’re well versed in proper plumbing techniques such as how to connect seals and pipes properly. As a result, hiring a plumber will ensure that your garbage disposal and kitchen sink remain leak-free and work effectively. 

Best of all, modern plumbers can handle both the plumbing and electrical needs of your garbage disposal without any complications. This will help you save both time and money as it will eliminate the need to hire an electrician to handle the electrical work of your garbage disposal. 

Other benefits

Another notable benefit of hiring a plumber for this project is that they can troubleshoot and fix any garbage disposal problem that may arise before, during, and after the installation process. However, the same cannot be said about electricians. For instance, a plumber can easily fix issues like faulty pipes or clogged drains before installing a garbage disposal. 

Lastly, a plumber can offer advice on the best type of garburator for your home’s plumbing system. After all, an experienced plumber has expertise working with various plumbing systems and garbage disposals, making it easy for them to recommend the best garbage disposal for your home. In addition, a plumber will help you make an informed decision by providing valuable information on the maintenance requirements and lifetime costs of different garbage disposal models. 

Do I have to hire a plumber to install a garbage disposal? 

Although a garbage disposal is a plumbing appliance, you don’t necessarily need to be a professional plumber to install it. You can easily install one yourself, provided you’ve got the skills needed to install a garbage disposal. Besides, there is a lot of information online on how to install a garbage disposal from scratch. However, you’ll need a few tools and supplies to install or replace a garbage disposal, depending on the model of your unit. For instance, you may need a flat-headed screwdriver, plumber’s putty, Philip-head screwdriver, Needle-nose pliers, flashlight, and hammer.

One benefit of installing garbage disposal yourself is that it will help you save money. Typically, the average cost of installing a garbage disposal is around $100 per hour. Therefore, not hiring a plumber to handle the installation will come with significant savings. 

What if my garbage disposal does not have a pre-installed Cord? 

Most garbage disposals have a pre-installed power cord to provide a simple installation process since you only need to plug it into an outlet after mounting it to the kitchen sink. However, if your garbage disposal model doesn’t come with a power cord, you may need to hire an electrical engineer to handle the electrical part. 

An electrician will open the terminal plate on the underside of your unit and wire the power cord into it. Alternatively, you can do this part yourself or leave it to your plumber as it’s a pretty basic step that is well detailed in the instruction’s manual. 

Conclusion 

If you want a professional garbage disposal installation, consider hiring a plumber instead of an electrician. The plumber will review your plumbing system and recommend the best type of garbage disposal for your home. However, if you have experience in DIY projects, you can also install the garbage disposal unit yourself. After all, the garbage disposal installation process follows the same steps for most garbage disposal models.