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Connect Power Cord — Obtain Quotes from Multiple Plumbers

Beginner4 hours

Part of project

Garbage Disposal & Sink Replacement Cost · Step 2 of 3

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In this video

Connect the power cord to the new disposal. Determine which wires are the neutral and hot wires by comparing the ribbed wire on the cord to the plug. Connect the ribbed wire to the white neutral wire of the disposal and the smooth wire to the black hot wire. Use wire connectors to secure the connections. Attach the power cord to the disposal and close the access panel.

Goal: Garbage Disposal Installation (Continuous Feed)

  • Use Wago connectors to ensure a solid and reliable electrical connection.

Used in this video

  • Screwdriver (Screwdriver_Type: Combination)Securing cord to disposal unit
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FAQs

What's a realistic budget range for replacing both a kitchen sink and garbage disposal, considering DIY versus hiring a professional?

DIY costs typically range from $300-$800, primarily for the sink, disposal, and basic plumbing supplies. Hiring a professional can increase the total to $700-$1500+, as you'll also pay for labor, which averages $150-$300 per hour, plus potential permit and old unit disposal fees.

What are the most significant factors that drive up the cost of a new kitchen sink and garbage disposal replacement?

Key cost drivers include the sink's material (e.g., granite composite and cast iron are pricier than stainless steel), the garbage disposal's horsepower and features, and brand reputation. Additionally, complex plumbing configurations, cabinet modifications, and unexpected issues with old connections can increase labor costs.

Beyond the sink and disposal units themselves, what other materials or tools should I budget for if I plan to DIY the installation?

You'll need to budget for essential plumbing supplies like plumber's putty, silicone caulk, new P-trap components, and possibly shut-off valves. Basic tools such as a pipe wrench, screwdriver, adjustable wrench, and safety glasses are also crucial, and you might need specialized tools like a basin wrench or garbage disposal wrench.

How can I accurately compare quotes from different plumbers to ensure I'm getting a fair price for installation?

Request detailed, itemized quotes that clearly separate costs for labor, the sink/disposal (if supplied by them), additional materials, permit fees, and disposal of the old units. Compare these line by line and inquire about warranties on their work. Don't hesitate to check references and online reviews for each plumber.

Transcript
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before doing the final tightening and now for the electrical I'll just open up the access panel here foreign thing I did notice when I took off the old cord is the two conductors are both black so it's a little hard to call out neutral and hot because usually hot's black and neutral is white but what I can do is there's little ribs on the one wire and the other is smooth if I cross-reference that to the plug I see the ribs are on the left hand side I know that is the neutral side so what I would want to do is I'd want to match up the ribs to the white neutral wire and that's going to ensure that my garbage disposal is going to be turning in the correct direction because before I did note it actually was turning counterclockwise which is not per the design which should be rotation in the clockwise Direction when you're looking down into the garbage disposal and then I'll match the rib side up I'm going to use Wago connectors here which are by far my favorite type of wire connector because I ensure I have a solid connection and no chance of loose connections that would cause issues in the future now usually I'd use a two pin but I'm all out two pins so I'm just using the three pin which will be perfectly fine and connect up that hot side close the lever

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