Replacing a garbage disposal is often a two-person job: one to hold the heavy, greasy unit under the sink, and another to fiddle with the mounting ring from above. The Moen Host Series GXS75C changes this dynamic fundamentally through one key feature: Weight.
At just 7.75 lbs, this unit is less than half the weight of many competitors (which can tip the scales at 18+ lbs). This makes it the undisputed champion for the solo DIY installer. Here is how to navigate the setup, from the mount to the wiring.
The Universal XPRESS Mount: Compatibility Check
Moen uses the Universal XPRESS Mount system.
* The Good News: It fits most standard “3-bolt” mounting assemblies found under millions of American sinks (including those from InSinkErator).
* The “Simple Swap”: As reviewer Barrett Bogner noted, if your old flange is in good shape, you can often just twist off the old unit and twist on the Moen. Installation time? “Maybe 45 minutes.”
* The Pro Tip: While compatible, we recommend swapping in the included Moen flange if possible. The Moen mount is specifically tuned to the vibration frequency of the Vortex motor, maximizing the effectiveness of the SoundSHIELD noise reduction.
The Power Cord Dilemma: Plug vs. Wire
Unlike most disposals that force you to buy a separate power cord kit (an annoying $15 upsell), the GXS75C comes with a Pre-Installed Power Cord.
* Scenario A (Outlet under sink): You win. Just mount the unit and plug it in. Zero electrical work required.
* Scenario B (Hardwired): You have a slight hurdle. You will need to remove the bottom plate of the disposal, disconnect the cord, and wire your house’s Romex cable directly to the unit.
* Warning: Ensure the circuit breaker is OFF. Use wire nuts to secure the connections (Black to Black, White to White, Green/Copper to Ground).
Ergonomics: The One-Handed Lift
Because the GXS75C uses a compact permanent magnet motor, it is small and light.
* The Benefit: You can easily lift the unit into place with one hand while using the other hand to rotate the locking collar. No need to prop it up with a stack of books or use a car jack.
* Space Saving: Its slim profile (9.69″ wide) frees up valuable under-sink real estate for cleaning supplies or reverse osmosis systems.
Preventing Leaks: The Plumber’s Putty Rule
A common failure point is the sink flange.
* The Mistake: Relying on the rubber gasket alone on a stainless steel sink.
* The Fix: Always use a snake of Plumber’s Putty under the rim of the new sink flange. Tighten the 3 bolts evenly until the putty squeezes out. This creates a watertight seal that rubber gaskets can’t always match on uneven surfaces.
Conclusion: Respecting the DIYer
The Moen GXS75C isn’t just designed to grind food; it’s designed to be installed by real people. By reducing the weight, pre-installing the cord, and adhering to the universal mounting standard, Moen has removed the friction points that make people call a plumber. It empowers you to take ownership of your kitchen infrastructure.
