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While the drain connection for a garbage disposal is nearly universal and fits standard sink drain holes of 3 1/2 to 4 inches, the size of the disposal unit itself is not. You must have enough space in the cabinet underneath your sink to accommodate the disposal's housing. A larger model may not fit in a compact cabinet or if the existing plumbing is arranged in an unusual way. Before buying a new garbage disposal, measure the available space under your sink. If you are replacing an old unit, it's often easiest to choose a new model of a similar size.

Whether it's worth repairing your garbage disposal depends on its age and the specific problem. Generally, if the unit is eight years old or younger, repair is a good option. For minor issues like a bad seal or a simple jam, a repair can be inexpensive, sometimes under $10. However, if the motor is broken (a repair that can cost $150 or more) or the unit is getting old, it's often more cost-effective to replace the entire disposal.

As with many appliances, proper maintenance is key to maximizing your garbage disposal’s life span. If everyone in your household is on board with proper care and maintenance, like running water while operating the disposal, you should get plenty of years out of your unit. Avoid putting the wrong food items down the disposal, including pasta, rice, bread, and more.

These appliances do unscrew, but you need to disconnect everything properly when you replace your garbage disposal. Make sure you shut the power off to the area first and check that it’s off with a voltage detector. Disconnect the main drain line and P-trap, and then disconnect the dishwasher drain line if you have one connected. You can then unscrew your garbage disposal using a disposal wrench. Just make sure you disconnect the electrical lines before removing your appliance.