How to Replace a Garbage Disposal with Regular Plumbing

Tired of a noisy, broken, or smelly garbage disposal? Maybe you’ve decided it’s just not worth the hassle—or the energy bills. You’re not alone. Many U.S. homeowners are choosing to replace a garbage disposal with regular plumbing for simplicity, cost savings, and environmental reasons. Whether your unit has failed or you’re just ready for a change, this guide walks you through the entire process—safely, legally, and efficiently.

Why Would Someone Remove a Garbage Disposal?

Before diving into the “how,” it helps to understand the “why.” According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), food waste makes up 24% of landfill material, and while disposals divert some of that, they also increase water and energy use. A 2023 study by the American Society of Home Inspectors found that nearly 18% of homeowners who removed their disposals cited maintenance issues or plumbing backups as the main reason.

Others choose removal because:

• They compost food scraps instead.
• Their septic system isn’t compatible with disposals.
• They want a quieter kitchen.
• They’re remodeling and simplifying their plumbing.

Whatever your reason, replacing a disposal with standard plumbing is a practical, often straightforward upgrade.

Is It Legal to Remove a Garbage Disposal?

Yes—in most places. The International Residential Code (IRC) doesn’t require garbage disposals in residential kitchens. However, local building codes may vary. For example, some municipalities in California or New York City have specific drainage requirements. Always check with your local building department before starting work.

💡 Pro Tip: Removing a disposal doesn’t violate plumbing codes as long as you maintain a proper P-trap and venting system—which we’ll cover in detail.

Tools & Materials You’ll Need

Before you begin, gather these essentials:

• Adjustable wrench or basin wrench
• Screwdrivers (flathead and Phillips)
• Plumber’s putty or silicone sealant
• Bucket and towels (for water spills)
• PVC pipe, slip nut, and tailpiece (typically 1.5″ diameter)
• Dishwasher air gap (if applicable)
• Safety goggles and gloves

Most of these items are available at hardware stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s for under $30 total.

Step-by-Step: How to Replace a Garbage Disposal with Regular Plumbing

Follow these steps carefully. The entire process usually takes 1–2 hours for a DIYer with basic plumbing experience.

Step 1: Turn Off Power and Water Supply

Safety first!

• Locate the circuit breaker and turn off power to the disposal.
• If your sink has a shut-off valve under the cabinet, close it. If not, turn off the main water supply.

⚠️ Never skip this step. Even unplugged disposals can retain electrical charge.

Step 2: Disconnect the Garbage Disposal

1. Place a bucket under the disposal to catch residual water.
2. Disconnect the drain pipe by loosening the slip nut.
3. Detach the dishwasher hose (if connected) using a screwdriver or hose clamp pliers.
4. Remove the mounting assembly using a disposal wrench or screwdriver. Most units twist off counterclockwise.

Step 3: Remove the Mounting Ring and Flange

• Use a screwdriver to loosen the mounting screws around the sink flange.
• Lift out the flange and scrape off old plumber’s putty from the sink surface.

Step 4: Install a Standard Sink Drain Assembly

Now you’ll replace the disposal with a regular kitchen drain:

1. Apply a bead of plumber’s putty (or silicone) around the underside of the new drain flange.
2. Insert the flange into the sink drain hole.
3. From below, attach the locking nut and gasket, tightening with a wrench until snug (don’t overtighten).
4. Wipe away excess putty.

Step 5: Reconnect the Drain Pipes

• Attach a tailpiece (straight pipe) to the bottom of the new drain.
• Reconnect the P-trap to the tailpiece and the wall drainpipe.
• Ensure all slip nuts are hand-tightened, then give a quarter-turn with a wrench.

🔍 Check for leaks: Turn the water back on and run the faucet for 30 seconds. Look for drips at all joints.

Step 6: Cap or Redirect the Dishwasher Drain (If Needed)

If you have a dishwasher:

• Option A: Connect the dishwasher hose directly to the side inlet of the new sink drain (most modern drains have this).
• Option B: Install an air gap on the countertop (required in some states like California).
• Never let the dishwasher drain directly into the garbage disposal if it’s been removed—this can cause backflow.

For more on drainage systems, see Wikipedia’s overview of plumbing traps and vents .

Garbage Disposal vs. Regular Plumbing: Pros and Cons

As you can see, regular plumbing wins on cost, simplicity, and reliability—especially if you compost or scrape food waste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the P-trap: This is illegal and dangerous—it blocks sewer gases.
• Overtightening fittings: Can crack PVC or strip threads.
• Ignoring local codes: Some areas require an air gap for dishwashers.
• Leaving electrical wires exposed: Cap them with a wire nut and tuck into a junction box.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I just cap the disposal drain and leave it in place?

No. Leaving a disconnected disposal creates a dead leg in your plumbing, which can trap debris and cause odors or clogs. Always remove it entirely and install a proper drain.

Q2: Will removing the disposal affect my dishwasher?

Only if it’s not reconfigured properly. Modern dishwashers must drain through an air gap or high loop to prevent backflow. Connect the hose to the new sink drain’s side port or install a countertop air gap.

Q3: Do I need a permit to remove a garbage disposal?

In most U.S. jurisdictions, no permit is required for minor plumbing changes like this. However, if you’re altering drain lines or venting, check local rules.

Q4: How much money can I save by removing the disposal?

The average disposal uses 3–4 kWh per month. At $0.15/kWh, that’s $5–$7/year in electricity. Bigger savings come from avoiding repairs—disposal fixes average $200–$400 per incident.

Q5: What do I do with food waste now?

Start composting! The EPA estimates that composting diverts 30% of household waste from landfills. Even apartment dwellers can use countertop compost bins or municipal drop-off programs.

Q6: Can I reinstall a disposal later?

Yes! The standard sink flange used in regular plumbing is the same size as disposal flanges. Just reverse the process when you’re ready.

Conclusion

Replacing a garbage disposal with regular plumbing is a smart, cost-effective upgrade that simplifies your kitchen, reduces maintenance headaches, and aligns with eco-friendly habits. With basic tools and a little patience, you can complete this project in an afternoon—and enjoy a quieter, cleaner sink for years to come.

Found this guide helpful? Share it with a friend who’s tired of wrestling with a broken disposal! 👉 Tag them on Facebook, Pinterest, or Instagram with #NoMoreDisposalDrama.

And remember: good plumbing isn’t about complexity—it’s about function, safety, and peace of mind.