Got a garbage disposer that spits, um, garbage at you? Forget about replacing the entire unit. You can install a new splash guard in about 20 minutes. You don’t need any special tools.
1. If your garbage disposer is hard-wired, start by flipping off the circuit breaker. If it plugs in, unplug it. Assemble a support for the disposer by stacking up some books and a piece of wood on top. Then unscrew and remove the drainpipe.
2. To disconnect the disposer, jam a screw-driver into the locking ring and rotate it away from you. That will release the collar and the disposer will drop onto the books. Support it with one hand so it doesn’t tip over.
3. Remove the top piece of wood from the bookstack to lower the disposer enough to replace the splash guard. Grab the lower edge of the old rubber guard and peel it up and off. Then slip the new one on and push it down until it seats.
4. Reconnect the disposer by replacing the wood piece and adding several shims between the books and the bottom of the disposer until the locking ring just touches the sink flange. Then just rotate the ring to lock it in place. Reinstall the drain line, do a leak test and grind away.