Homes with septic systems are not recommended to have garbage disposals. If you have experienced problems with a septic system or if you have moved into a home with a septic system, it may be a good idea to remove the disposal. Similarly, kitchen drains that are prone to clogging may be challenged by a garbage disposal, which sends small food particles down the drain, increasing the likelihood of clogging. To keep your drains clear, it is safer to scrape off all food leftovers into the compost or garbage.
Fortunately, most homeowners are capable of removing a garbage disposal and replacing it with a sink strainer on their own.
Before You Start
When a trash disposal is removed without being replaced, a sink strainer or basket strainer must be installed in its stead. Also, you will need a new sink tailpiece, which is the vertical drain pipe just beneath the strainer. Moreover, you will likely need a new waste pipe that goes from the tailpiece to the P-trap or tee of the drain (for double-basin sinks).
All of these components are available at home improvement stores. They are affordable and simple to utilize. If any of the new drain components do not fit with the old, it is inexpensive to replace all drain components going to the branch drain in the wall or floor.
WARNING
If your trash disposal lacks an appliance cord plugged into an outlet, it is hardwired and must be unplugged from the circuit wiring. Before working on any cables, turn off the disposal circuit at the circuit breaker. Contact an electrician regarding the permanent disconnection of the disposal circuit.