How to replace a smelly splash guard on your garbage disposal

Fed up with nasty odors and splashes every time you use your kitchen sink? Swapping out your garbage disposal’s splash guard might just do the trick. Those guards wear out over time, causing leaks, splatters, and letting food bits escape—which leads to those unpleasant smells. In this guide, we’ll show you step by step how to replace your splash guard and keep your kitchen smelling fresh and staying clean.

The info in this article might not match your exact appliance model. We aim to offer handy tips for all sorts of DIY appliance repairs, but different models can have variations in troubleshooting steps, error codes, part replacements, and so on. For the best advice, we recommend checking the manufacturer’s documentation for your specific model or reach out to us if you’ve got any questions.

Gather your tools and materials

Before you dive in, make sure you’ve got everything you’ll need. Having the right tools handy will make things go smoother and quicker:

• Replacement splash guard: Make sure you’ve got the correct splash guard for your disposal. If you’re not sure, you can find your appliance’s model number here to get the right part.
• Screwdriver
• Bucket or pan
• Work gloves
• Towels or rags

Cut the power

Safety first when working with electrical appliances. To avoid any risk of electric shock or accidental startups:

1. Unplug the disposal: If your disposal plugs into an outlet under the sink, unplug it.
2. Flip the circuit breaker: If it’s hardwired, find your home’s electrical panel and shut off the breaker linked to the disposal.
3. Double-check the power’s off: Try turning on the disposal switch to make sure it’s dead.

Replacement steps

To get to the splash guard, you’ll need to disconnect the disposal from the sink’s plumbing:

1. Put a bucket under the disposal: This’ll catch any leftover water in the pipes.
2. Loosen the drainpipe connections: Use your screwdriver to remove screws or nuts holding the drainpipe to the disposal.
3. Detach the dishwasher hose: If your dishwasher drains into the disposal, loosen the clamp and slip off the hose.
4. Let the water drain: Allow any water in the pipes to empty into the bucket.

Loosen the mounting assembly

The disposal is connected to the sink via a mounting assembly with a locking ring:

1. Find the mounting ring: Look for the ring at the top of the disposal where it meets the sink flange.
2. Insert the screwdriver: Stick the screwdriver into a lug on the mounting ring.
3. Turn counter-clockwise: Apply some muscle to rotate the ring counter-clockwise. It might be tight.
4. Support the disposal: Use your other hand to steady the disposal so it doesn’t drop when the ring loosens.

Lower the disposal

Once the mounting ring is loose, you can remove the disposal unit:

1. Gently pull down: Carefully lower the disposal. Keep in mind—it can be heavy.
2. Set it down safely: Place it on the cabinet floor or prop it up on something sturdy so you can work on it easier.
3. Check things out: Take a look at the sink flange and mounting assembly for any signs of wear or damage.

Remove the old splash guard

The splash guard is the rubber or plastic gasket at the top of the disposal:

1. Locate the guard: It’s sitting at the disposal’s opening where it meets the sink drain.
2. Pull it off: Grab the edge of the old splash guard and peel it off. It’s probably greasy or dirty, so gloves help.
3. Toss the old guard: Set it aside for disposal. Notice any cracks or wear that caused the issues you’re fixing.

Clean the disposal

A clean surface ensures a tight seal with the new splash guard:

1. Wipe down the flange: Use a damp cloth to clean the top edge of the disposal.
2. Remove debris: Get rid of any food bits, grease, or gunk.
3. Check for damage: Look over the disposal’s top for any cracks or issues that might need attention.

Install the new splash guard

Putting on the new guard is pretty straightforward:

1. Line up the guard: Position the new splash guard over the disposal’s opening.
2. Press it into place: Push down evenly around the edge until it snaps on snugly.
3. Make sure it fits tight: The splash guard should sit flush without any gaps. This prevents leaks and keeps stuff from splashing out.

Position the disposal

Reattaching the disposal can be a bit tricky ’cause it’s heavy. Here’s how to make it easier:

1. Lift the disposal: Carefully raise it back under the sink, lining it up with the mounting assembly.
2. Use support if needed: If you’re flying solo, stack some books or use a sturdy box to prop up the disposal close to the mounting ring.
3. Align the mounting tabs: Make sure the disposal’s mounting tabs line up with the slots on the mounting ring.

Tighten the locking ring

Secure the disposal to the sink:

1. Engage the mounting ring: Rotate the ring clockwise to lock the disposal into place.
2. Use the screwdriver for leverage: Insert the screwdriver into a lug to help tighten the ring firmly.
3. Check the connection: Ensure the disposal is securely attached and doesn’t wobble.

Reconnect lines and power

Finish putting everything back together:

1. Reattach the drainpipe: Connect the drainpipe to the disposal and tighten the screws or nuts.
2. Reconnect the dishwasher hose: If applicable, slide the hose onto the disposal’s inlet and tighten the clamp.
3. Remove the bucket: Once everything’s hooked up, remove the bucket and any tools from under the sink.
4. Turn the power back on: Plug the disposal back into the outlet or flip the circuit breaker back on.

Wrapping up

Swapping out your garbage disposal’s splash guard is a straightforward DIY task that can make a big difference in your kitchen’s cleanliness and freshness. By taking the time to do it yourself, you’ve saved money and can give yourself a pat on the back for a job well done.

For quality replacement parts and expert advice, visit AppliancePartsPros.com. We’re here to help with all your appliance repair needs.

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