The hardest part of replacing an old garbage disposer is fitting yourself comfortably under

Replacing an old garbage disposer is not as difficult as you may think.

Step 1: Disconnect the power supply to the old garbage disposer. If the disposer is hardwired, you will need to turn the power off at the circuit box. Otherwise, just unplug the old cord. Disconnect the drain lines. Be sure to have a pan or bucket beneath the drain lines to catch any excess water and goo. Have plenty of towels to clean up the mess that may ensue. Use a screwdriver or disposer wrench to push the lower mounting ring to the left until the disposer falls free from the mounting assembly. Be prepared — the disposer is surprisingly heavy.

Step 2: You should be able to use the mounting assembly from the old disposer for the new one. If you choose to replace the assembly be sure to use at least a 1/4 pound of non-hardening plumbers putty rolled into a 3/4-inch-thick rope to seal beneath the new sink flange. Set the old disposer on top of the new flange to hold it in place while you install the new disposer.

Step 3: Using wire nuts and plenty of electrical tape, attach the electrical cord to the bottom of the disposer. Do not connect the cord to the power at this time.

Step 4: Line up the mounting tabs with the lower mounting ring and insert the new disposer into the mounting assembly. Make sure the disposer drain is in the proper position to reattach to the drain line. Use a screwdriver or disposer wrench to turn the lower mounting ring to the right, locking the new disposer securely in place.

Step 5: Reattach the drain lines, making sure not to overtighten or cross-thread the nuts.

Step 6: Before connecting the power to the new disposer, check inside the disposer to make sure nothing has fallen in during the process. Remove any excess putty from around the sink flange and clear the sink of any debris.

Step 7: Complete the installation process by connecting the power supply to the new disposer. Run cold water into the disposer and turn the power on to make sure everything is working properly. Check for leaks before shutting the cabinet door on a job well done.