How to dispose of a garbage disposal is easier than most people expect. A disposal unit is basically a small electric motor with a steel or stainless grinding chamber, so it has real scrap value and is welcome at most scrap yards and metal drop-offs. The main steps are removing it safely, getting the gunk out, and taking it somewhere that recycles metal rather than tossing it in the trash.
Removing the old unit
- Turn off power at the breaker, then unplug the unit if it has a cord, or disconnect the hardwired cable with power confirmed off.
- Disconnect the drain pipe and the dishwasher hose if there is one.
- Support the disposal from below; many weigh 10 to 25 pounds.
- Twist the mounting ring to release it from the sink flange.
- Keep the mounting hardware if the new disposal is the same brand; some share mounts.
If you are unsure about the wiring, have an electrician or plumber handle the swap.
Clean it before it travels
Old disposals hold food scraps, grease, and standing water that smell fast in a car.
- Tip the unit over a trash bag to drain it.
- Rinse the chamber with a hose outdoors.
- Let it dry, then bag it for the trip.
Where it goes
| Option | Notes |
|---|---|
| Scrap yard | Often accepted as an electric motor or mixed steel; motors may pay more than plain steel |
| Transfer station metal pile | Commonly accepted at no or low cost |
| Electronics recycler | Some take small appliances, including disposals |
| Installer haul-away | Many plumbers remove the old unit as part of the job |
| Trash | Allowed in some areas but wastes recyclable metal |
Call your scrap yard to ask how it classifies disposals. Some want the power cord cut off; others take them whole.
The power cord
If the disposal has a plug-in cord, scrap yards may ask you to remove it, since cords are a separate category of insulated copper wire. Cut it off near the unit and bag it with other cords. See old cables and cords.
During a kitchen remodel
When the disposal comes out with the sink and cabinets, separate the metal items from the wood and countertops. Keeping clean metal out of a mixed debris load can lower dump fees at sites that charge by weight. Our guides to kitchen sinks and kitchen cabinets cover the rest.
Should you repair instead?
A disposal that hums but does not spin is often just jammed. Many have a hex socket on the bottom that you can turn with an Allen wrench to free it, and a reset button on the base. Leaking from the body, though, usually means the unit is worn out.
How to dispose of a garbage disposal FAQ
Can I throw a garbage disposal in the trash?
Some areas allow it, but disposals are mostly metal and a motor, so scrap yards and metal drop-offs are the better choice.
Do scrap yards take garbage disposals?
Many do, often as an electric motor or mixed steel. Call ahead to ask about cords.
Will a plumber take my old disposal?
Many plumbers and installers haul away the old unit when installing a new one.
How do I clean a disposal before recycling it?
Drain it over a trash bag, rinse it with a hose outdoors, and let it dry.
Is a garbage disposal worth scrap money?
Usually a small amount, since the motor contains copper windings.
The bottom line
How to dispose of a garbage disposal: disconnect power, remove it, drain and rinse it, and take it to a scrap yard, metal drop-off, or electronics recycler. Cut off the cord if the yard asks. Keep it out of the trash when metal recycling is nearby.
Guides and tools
Appliance disposal guide · Dump cost calculator · All material guides