How To Install A Garbage Disposal In A Tight Space

Do you want to install a garbage disposal, but the space under the sink is limited? 

Then, you are not alone. 

Many homeowners fail to enjoy the benefits of having a garbage disposal due to a small under-sink area or limited access to the plumbing. 

By choosing a compact disposal unit and flexible plumbing kits, you can install the garbage disposal where the space is at a premium. 

Fortunately, this how-to guide will walk you through step-by-step instructions to install a garbage disposal unit in a tight space. 

So, let’s dive in. 

Tools and Materials You Will Need:

Ensure you have these tools and materials at your fingertips:

• Garbage disposal unit (preferably compact)
• Plumber’s putty
• Screwdriver set
• Wrench set (including Allen wrench)
• Bucket or pan (to catch any leaks)
• Adjustable pliers
• Measuring tape
• Flashlight (to work in low-visibility spaces)
• Electrical wiring kit (if needed)

What Should You Consider When Installing A Garbage Disposal In A Tight Space?

Here are the considerations you must keep in mind when working with limited space: 

Choose A Compact Garbage Disposal

Choose a smaller garbage disposal unit that accommodates the restricted space under the sink. 

Space-friendly garbage disposal models like InSinkErator Evolution Compact Garbage Disposal and Waste King L-1001 are available. 

You can consider those space-saving garbage disposal models if you have restricted cabinet space under the sink. 

Plumbing Layout

Inspect the existing plumbing configuration under the sink to see how the plumber arranged the pipes and drains. If required, replace the old plumbing with flexible pipes and connectors. 

Electric Outlet Access

Check whether you have access to the electric power source or not. If the power source is hard to reach, place the outlet strategically so that you can connect the disposal unit to the power. 

How To Install A Garbage Disposal In A Tight Space: Step-By-Step Instructions

To install the garbage disposal successfully in a tight space, go along with the following steps: 

Measure the Space Available Under The Sink

Before buying a garbage disposal, measure the available space in your kitchen cabinet. Use the measuring tape to gauge the height and width of the under-sink area. 

Don’t forget to measure the depth of the sink and any nearby pipes. 

I recommend leaving at least 4-6 inches of clearance between the bottom of the disposal unit and the base of the cabinet. 

Choose The Right Garbage Disposal

Choose the garbage disposal unit according to your measurements. Compact garbage disposals are the best bait for installation in tight spaces. 

Look for those food waste disposers designed to fit under the restricted sink area. 

Some models, including Insinkerator Evolution Compact and Waste King L-1001, have a slim profile and shorter dimensions to accommodate the tight space. 

Prepare The Area For Installation

Begin with turning off the power. Go to your household circuit breaker panel and flip down the breaker for the garbage disposal unit. 

Second, disconnect the existing plumbing, like the drain pipes, from the under-sink area. Place a plastic bucket under the piping to catch water drips. 

Install the Sink Flange

Unbox your new garbage disposal unit, disassemble the mounting assembly and remove the sink flange. 

Then, apply the plumber’s putty around the new sink flange and insert it into the sink drain hole. 

Next, put a weight on the sink opening. 

Connect the Mounting Assembly To The Sink Flange

Go underneath the sink. 

Grab the mounting assembly that comes with the garbage disposal and attach it to the flange. Then, secure the mounting assembly by tightening the mounting bolts. 

Ensure you keep all mounting components in the same order when disassembling.

If you are confused, you can read this article on garbage disposal installation to install the mounting assembly correctly. 

Attach The Garbage Disposal Unit

It’s time to connect the food waste disposer to the mounting assembly. 

Lay down against your back (under the mounting assembly), align the disposal unit with the mounting assembly, and turn the unit clockwise until it locks.  

As you are working in a tight space, you need a second person to hold the unit while you secure the disposal unit.

Connect The Plumbing And The Electrical Components To The Disposal

Once you attach the disposal unit to the mounting assembly, it’s time to connect the plumbing. 

Attach the discharge tube to the disposal’s outlet and secure it using the provided flange kits.

Then, connect the p-trap to the disposal and the drain pipes. 

Connect the dishwasher hose to the disposal’s inlet if you have a dishwasher near the sink. 

Afterward, connect the power cord to the disposal electric connections. I recommend you read this article to learn how to wire a garbage disposal with a plug-in cord. 

Check for Leaks & Test The Operation

After plumbing and connecting the electric connections to the disposal unit, it’s time to check for leaks. 

Regarding this, run the cold water supply. Then, plug the power cord of the disposal unit into the outlet and operate it. 

Check the pipe connections under the sink for leaks. If required, tighten the pipe connections. 

FAQs

How do I deal with limited space for the plumbing connection?

To deal with the limited space for the plumbing connection, use flexible piping or adjustable connectors to bend or extend the piping when needed. Using flexible pipe and adjustable connectors will create more room for disposal and ensure proper alignment with the sink drain. 

How do I connect the garbage disposal to power if the electrical outlet is hard to reach?

If the electrical outlet is hard to reach, you can use a power extension cord designed for the disposal unit. Alternatively, call a certified electrician to reposition the electric outlet. 

Will installing a garbage disposal in a tight space affect its performance?

If you install the garbage disposal unit properly with proper clearance, you will get the optimal grinding performance even if the unit is in a tight space. 

Conclusion

The headache of installing a garbage disposal in a tight space will turn into relief by following our step-by-step guidelines.

Just measure the available space under the sink, choose a compact garbage disposal unit, and follow our step-by-step instructions to install the disposal unit correctly.

Plan, use flexible plumbing parts where necessary, and ask for help if the space is confined.

Need more help? Our comprehensive Garbage Disposal Manual provides additional troubleshooting tips and step-by-step guides for every installation scenario, making it the perfect companion for any DIY project.