Tools needed
- Screwdriver set
- Putty knife
- Rag
Materials needed
- Universal garbage disposal splash guard
- Sink flange kit
- Oatey plumber's putty
Step-by-step
- 1
Unplug the disposal and loosen its locking ring to drop the unit from the sink mount.
- 2
Pull out the old, worn rubber splash guard.
- 3
If replacing the flange, push out the old sink flange and scrape off the old putty.
- 4
Roll fresh plumber's putty into a rope and set the new stainless flange into the drain.
- 5
Seat the new splash guard and reattach the mounting assembly from below.
- 6
Lift the disposal back onto the mount, lock the ring, restore power, and run water to check for leaks.
Common mistakes
- • Forgetting to unplug the disposal first
- • Using too little putty so the flange seeps
- • Cross-threading the locking ring
Maintenance & next steps
Run cold water with the disposal and grind a little ice and citrus to keep it fresh.
For a disposal that hums or won't spin, or persistent leaks at the discharge.


