Garbage Disposal Buying Guide
- by Dino Paccino
- Last Updated: February 20, 2023
Most people don’t give much thought to a garbage disposal until they want to buy one, or need to replace their current one. Once you begin shopping for the best garbage disposal, you may quickly become overwhelmed by the number of options available.
You will come across different brands, sizes, horsepower, and noise levels. So, how do you choose the right garbage disposal for your needs?
Look no further because we have compiled a guide of the best garbage disposals available in the market today.
- 1. Best All-Around - Insinkerator XTR
- 2. Best Budget-Friendly - Waste King L1001
- 3. Best for Light Food Waste - Moen GX50C GX
Jump to Section
A List of the Best Garbage Disposals in 2021- Buyer's Guide
Whether you need a garbage disposal with a quiet motor or one that can quickly chop up the toughest of food waste, we have a recommendation for you.
Use the guide below to learn about 10 of the top garbage disposals in the market today. Narrow them down and choose the one that best fits your needs.
1. InSinkErator Essential XTR
It is designed with a quiet motor, SinkTop Switch, and it comes with a power cord. It has a 3/4 horsepower with a power cord kit accessory. It is made with stainless steel materials, allowing it to seamlessly integrate with your modern kitchen.
The Insinkerator Essential XTR is a top-of-the-line garbage disposal that comes with a long list of useful features. It is designed with a quiet motor, SinkTop Switch, and it comes with a power cord. It has a 3/4 horsepower with a power cord kit accessory. It is made with stainless steel materials, allowing it to seamlessly integrate with your modern kitchen.
The stainless steel components also make it a durable and functional option. This garbage disposal is likely to last and even comes with a limited warranty.
Pros
- Quiet performance is perfect for smaller households or those with small children
- Features a MultiGrind technology that offers two different stages of grinding, breaking food waste down faster
- Comes with a 6-year in-home limited warranty
- Includes a QuickLock Sink Mount for easy installation
Cons
- Higher price tag than other models
2. Waste King L1001
It features a compact design, meaning it is ideal for kitchens of all sizes. It is also made with stainless steel parts that not only contribute to its modern design but also the effective grinding capabilities.
The Waste King Legend 1001 is another top-choice garbage disposal. It features a compact design, meaning it is ideal for kitchens of all sizes. It is also made with stainless steel parts that not only contribute to its modern design but also the effective grinding capabilities.
With a manual reset overload protector, the Waste King Legend 1000 is also good for households with heavy disposal needs.
The Waste King L1001 has a 1/2 HP motor, which is good for typical household waste but may not be ideal for tougher waste, like chicken bones. It can easily connect to your dishwasher.
Pros
- Compact design for smaller households
- Features a continuous feed to handle more food waste
- EZ mount system makes it easy for beginners to install
- Affordable price tag
- The removable, replaceable splash guard makes cleaning easy
- Safe to use with septic tanks
Cons
- Minimal sound installation properties
- Must access the continuous feed power from a wall switch
- Only comes with a two-year warranty
- Made with plastic materials, which means it wears out faster than stainless steel components
3. InSinkErator Badger 5
It has an easy mounting system and a 1/2 horsepower motor for efficient waste capabilities. It is smaller in size, meaning it will fit in most kitchens. The unit is powered by a Dura Drive motor with galvanized steel components, meaning it can handle most food waste.
The InSinkErator Badger 5 is another continuous feed garbage disposal. It has an easy mounting system and a 1/2 horsepower motor for efficient waste capabilities. It is smaller in size, meaning it will fit in most kitchens. The unit is powered by a Dura Drive motor with galvanized steel components, meaning it can handle most food waste.
The Badger mounting system also reduces vibrations, which can help with controlling noise. While the unit does come with a power cord, it does not include the parts you would need to install a sink-mounted air switch.
Pros
- It comes with an EZ mounting system
- It features a Galvanized steel design, making it a durable disposal unit that lasts
- Includes ample power on a limited budget
- The compact design makes it ideal for smaller areas
Cons
- The single-phase motor may not be enough power for some households
- Some users report difficulty with the installation
- Reduces vibration, but not necessarily noise
- Not all models come with the Quick Lock system, which can lead to leaking
4. Moen GX50C GX
The Moen GX50C GX is made with a 1/2 HP motor, making it another top garbage disposal for smaller households. It also features a Vortex permanent magnet motor that is fast at grinding down food scraps
The Moen GX50C GX is made with a 1/2 HP motor, making it another top garbage disposal for smaller households. It also features a Vortex permanent magnet motor that is fast at grinding down food scraps.
It works on continuous feed disposal that wires into a wall-mounted switch. It is made with stainless steel grind components, leading to a long-lasting unit that hardly ever clogs. The chamber itself is made with polymer plastic, which is durable and more affordable than fully stainless steel units.
The Moen GX50C GX is also ideal for households with minimal plumbing knowledge. The Universal Express mounting system makes it one of the best garbage disposals as the installation is as easy as aligning it on the mount, then twisting.
Pros
- The small design is ideal for most kitchen spaces
- The product includes a power cord
- It works on a continuous feed, ideal for frequent use
- Is safe to use with most septic tanks
Cons
- Average, four-year limited warranty, which is slightly less than comparable models
- Polymer plastic materials can wear out faster than other materials
5. Moen GSX75C-GX
This 3/4 HP larger garbage disposal is ideal for larger families or those who entertain a lot and have the toughest food waste needs. This disposal is also compatible with most septic tanks.
The Moen GSX75C-GX includes a unique design with exceptional performance that can easily handle your food waste or food scraps. This 3/4 HP larger garbage disposal is ideal for larger families or those who entertain a lot and have the toughest food waste needs. This disposal is also compatible with most septic tanks.
The Moen GSX75C-GX also comes with a pre-installed power cord for easier installation. For safety purposes, this unit also has a reset button located right on the side of the unit.
Pros
- Includes a VORTEX permanent magnet motor which finely grinds the toughest food waste with ease
- It comes with the Universal Xpress mount system and a pre-installed power cord for easy installation
- Includes a removable rubber splash guard and drain stopper so you can decide which features to use
- Features SoundShield, a durable insulation that reduces sound with better sound insulation
Cons
- Can be pricier than other disposals
- The larger size may not be ideal for households with limited space
6. InSinkErator Evolution Compact
InSinkErator has another in-sink garbage disposal, the Evolution Compact. This compact garbage disposal unit does a good job of quietly grinding down food particles. It is powered by a 3/4 HP motor and can handle most types of food waste, including potato and carrot peels.
InSinkErator has another in-sink garbage disposal, the Evolution Compact. This compact garbage disposal unit does a good job of quietly grinding down food particles. It is powered by a 3/4 HP motor and can handle most types of food waste, including potato and carrot peels.
In addition to your vegetable peels, it also offers a two-stage process, meaning it can also handle tougher waste, like chicken bones.
The grind chamber itself is made with stainless steel materials, meaning this garbage disposal is likely to last. The InSinkErator Evolution Compact also has a unique proprietary Quick-Lock technology that not only makes installation easy but also replacement. It also has a SoundSeal technology, making it a durable disposal unit, as well as a quiet one.
Even better, the unit also has an anti-vibration technology built-in for even more insulation. In line with other InSinkErator disposals, the Evolution Compact also has the Quick Lock technology, which allows you to change it out with other InSinkErator products.
Pros
- The compact size makes it great for small households
- It features SoundSeal technology, making it quieter than other disposal units
- It has a powerful garbage disposal that works on a continuous feed for tougher waste
- The Quick-Lock Sink Mount makes it easy to install
Cons
- The Quick-Lock technology is only suited for other InSinkErator products
- Costlier than other compact designs
7. Whirlpool GC2000XE
With a 1/2 horsepower, it does a great job at avoiding clogs. The grinding chamber is made with ABS plastic that reduces rust build-up. Its quick-mounting system not only makes it secure but has the ability to quickly also disconnect if needed.
The Whirlpool GC2000XE is a continuous feed garbage disposal with stainless steel materials. With a 1/2 horsepower, it does a great job at avoiding clogs. The grinding chamber is made with ABS plastic that reduces rust build-up. Its quick-mounting system not only makes it secure but has the ability to quickly also disconnect if needed.
The design also has anti-vibration features, which can reduce noise and limit the movement of nearby cupboards or your sink. While the grinder itself is made with ABS plastic materials, the shredder wheel is made with galvanized steel.
Pros
- The quick-mounting comes can make it easier to install
- The wheel is made with galvanized steel, offering the ability to break down tougher waste
- Includes a power cord meaning you don't have to go out and buy additional items
- It may be compatible with other mounting systems
Cons
- ABS plastic can wear out faster than other materials
- The one-year limited warranty is less than other similar models
8. VIVOHOME
The VIVOHOME is a rival of the Kitchen Aid KCDB250G 84211643 features a 1/2 horsepower motor as a continuous feed model. In addition to the 1725 RPM, the grinder is made with stainless steel components for greater durability. It also has a dishwasher inlet and durable draining tube, making it compatible with standard plumbing systems.
The VIVOHOME features a 1/2 horsepower motor as a continuous feed model. In addition to the 1725 RPM, the grinder is made with stainless steel components for greater durability. It also has a dishwasher inlet and durable draining tube, making it compatible with standard plumbing systems.
The mounting system of the Kitchen Aid KCDB250G 84211643 features a secure design that can prevent leaks. All you have to do is secure the three mounting tabs.
Pros
- Small design that doesn't sacrifice power
- Stainless steel grind chamber means it is long-lasting and rust-proof
- Comes with all the parts for installation, including the dishwasher inlet and draining tube
- Quiet design, even when grinding tougher items
Cons
- Limited one-year warranty
- The secure mounting system may require a professional to install
9. Waste King L8000 Legend 1
The Waste King L8000 Legend 1 uses a 1 HP motor with the ability to manage most food waste. It is designed with a permanent magnet motor, which means less noise output. Its grinding chamber also has sufficient power to load up quickly, which is important in preventing jams.
The Waste King L8000 Legend 1 uses a 1 HP motor with the ability to manage most food waste. It is designed with a permanent magnet motor, which means less noise output. Its grinding chamber also has sufficient power to load up quickly, which is important in preventing jams.
The unit itself is made with a stainless steel grind chamber and polymer plastic materials. The combination of the two makes it a lightweight and durable choice.
This high HP garbage disposal is a good option for larger households or in some cases, small commercial buildings.
Pros
- Features an HP motor on the high range of power
- Lifetime limited warranty
- The mix of stainless steel and polymer plastic materials makes it lightweight and durable
- The larger motor can handle most types of food waste with ease
Cons
- Does not have the ability to unjam it from the outside
- The smaller design can make it feel flimsy or of less value than other models
- Polymer plastic materials can wear out faster
- Has an expensive price tag
10. Moen GXB75C
It features a high-speed Vortex motor with a SoundSHIELD to reduce sound output. The power cord comes pre-installed so installation is not only easier but also more affordable. Made with a compact design, it is perfect for households with limited space or minimal plumbing knowledge. It is also compatible with most septic systems.
The Moen EX75C may be the last on our list of best garbage disposals, but it is still a good continuous disposal to consider. This is made with a 3/4 HP continuous feed disposal motor.
It features a high-speed Vortex motor with a SoundSHIELD to reduce sound output. The power cord comes pre-installed so installation is not only easier but also more affordable. Made with a compact design, it is perfect for households with limited space or minimal plumbing knowledge. It is also compatible with most septic systems.
The Moen EX75C also has stainless steel grind components, meaning it is likely to last while chopping up the most stubborn of food waste.
Finally, it comes with a 10-year limited warranty on manufacturer defects.
Pros
- Comes with a pre-installed power cord, making installation even easier
- Its versatile design is compatible with most plumbing systems
- Made with stainless steel grind components, making it a strong and powerful disposal.
- Long, lifetime warranty.
Cons
- A powerful motor with the ability to grind down large waste can make it louder
- Its compact design can make it feel flimsier than other models
Why Should I Buy a Garbage Disposal?
You have likely already decided that you need or want a garbage disposal. But, if you’re unsure, it can be beneficial to consider the convenience that comes with owning one.
Garbage disposals are a good way to get rid of garbage. They can significantly reduce your garbage pickup needs by allowing you to grind and dispose of food leftovers. Even if you only cook occasionally, garbage disposals are a convenient way to get rid of things when cooking.
Another good reason to consider a garbage disposal is to reduce household odor. If you cook a lot, the garbage can pile up before garbage day and lead to strong smells.
Additionally, even while cooking, some odors, like onions, can be too strong. A continuous feed garbage disposal can help you get rid of these smells while cooking.
Garbage disposals can also reduce the amount of waste in landfills. Whether you choose continuous or batch feed disposals, you won’t be able to go without one once you install it.
Important Components to Consider When Choosing a Garbage Disposal
Want to learn more regarding the different components of a garbage disposal? Consider how each of these factors affects the rating and quality of the best garbage disposals:
Noise
Some homeowners may be concerned about garbage disposal makes humming noise. Some garbage disposals can be louder, which may be disruptive.
Typically, an average garbage disposal produces, on average, 80 decibels of sound. This is similar to that of a lawnmower. But, some of the best garbage disposals have less dB than that. The level of dB that a garbage disposal produces is based on its insulation level.
If the noise level is important to you, then you will want to look for garbage disposals with features like SoundSeal technology. Sound seal technology ensures the disposal unit has a secure seal. This can prevent you from hearing the grinding noises from the motor.
Some garbage disposals also come with anti-vibration features. Some of the noise that you hear coming from a louder garbage disposal is the vibration. There may also be techniques you can do to reduce the vibration noise.
If you already have a garbage disposal that you like, but it is too noisy, you can also always add a sound cap. Continuous feed models tend to be louder because of the open grinder so by adding a cap to it, you can significantly reduce the noise.
If the noise is still too loud, then you might choose a batch feed disposal instead. They tend to be quieter because they don’t have an open drain system.
Quietest Garbage Disposals
Garbage disposal manufacturers are not required to publish their sound level. However, we have compiled a list of some of the quietest garbage disposals in the market today. A few of the quietest garbage disposals include:
- Insinkerator Evolution Excel- 45dB
- Moen GSX75C-GX- 65dB
- Insinkerator Evolution XTR- 65 dB
dB refers to the level of sound, or decibels, that a disposal produces when grinding.
Power
How much power do you need? The higher the horsepower, the better able to break down harder food waste items. Unlike when buying a vehicle, however, a higher horsepower is not always better. If you have a small household or hardly ever cook, choosing an in-sink garbage disposal with the highest rating may not be worth it.
More horsepower also means more noise typically, so if sound insulation is important to you, you may want to consider a lower power.
Here are a few of the power ratings you may consider:
- 1/3 HP: A 1/3 HP rating is the smallest motor. It is ideal for smaller households or those with limited cooking and waste. It can handle softer food waste but it is best to avoid chicken bones.
- 1/2 HP: A 1/2 HP rating is slightly larger than a 1/3 and can handle some cooked meats and smaller bones.
- 3/4 HP: A 3/4 HP rating is capable of handling minimal tougher waste, like chicken bones. It can also manage tougher vegetable peels.
- 1 HP: A 1 HP rating is the highest rating. However, whether or not it can handle tougher waste, like chicken bones, depends on how it is mounted and the quality of the grinding chamber.
If you have larger power and grinding needs, you may need to also choose a unit that comes with better insulation.
Fortunately, a lot of the best garbage disposals come with a Sound Seal technology. The units with this sound seal technology do also often come with a higher price tag.
Installation Requirements
If you are planning on installing your own garbage disposal unit, you will want to consider how easy installation is and whether you have the tools you need. Some units come with a quick-mounting system, which is ideal for DIY users. If an easy installation is important to you, then you will want to look for certain features, like Quick Lock or EZ Mount.
Some brands, like InSinkErator, also offer features that are compatible with other, similar units in their brand. This means that if you buy one InSinkErator and find that it doesn’t meet your household’s waste needs or that it is too loud, you can often use the same installation mount for a different InSinkErator product.
Size
The size of your garbage disposal may also be important, especially if you have limited space. In addition to the size of the unit itself, it is a good idea to consider the size of your household.
The smallest garbage disposals are around six to seven inches and the largest garbage disposals are between nine-12 inches in height. However, they may also be up to 18 inches in height.
You want to consider your current setup when choosing the right size. If you have a water filter system in place, it may mean that you need a smaller garbage disposal.
It can also be helpful to consider how much food waste you and your household produce when choosing the right size. In most cases, we assume that households with a greater amount of food waste require a larger unit.
1-3 People in the Household
Choose a 1/3 or 1/2 horsepower
Top choice: Waste King L1001
4-6 People in the Household
Choose a unit with 3/4 horsepower
Top choice: Moen GSX75C-GX
7-9 People in the Household
Choose a unit with 1 horsepower
Top choice: Insinkerator Evolution Excel
10 or More People in the Household
If you have more than 10 people in the household, you may need a larger, commercial-size garbage disposal unit. These units will usually cost more than units designed for residential use.
While the actual size of the garbage disposal is one size fits all, you still want to choose a unit that meets your household needs. The standard kitchen sink size is 3.5-inches in diameter, which is what most continuous and batch feed garbage disposals will measure.
Garbage Disposal Material Types
Garbage disposals come in all different materials types, including stainless steel, galvanized steel, or plastic. It can be helpful to consider the pros and cons of each when choosing the right one.
Stainless Steel
Disposal units that are made of stainless steel offer many benefits. They tend to last longer than other materials since they are stain and corrosion-resistant. The biggest downside of units made of stainless steel is that they are heavier. This can make them harder to install. Units that are made of stainless steel can also come with a larger price tag.
Galvanized Steel
Galvanized steel units are made with a layer of materials that are rust and corrosion-resistant. The biggest downside to galvanized steel is that, over time, this layer can wear down, which means the unit itself will also wear down faster. Galvanized steel garbage disposals do usually come at a cheaper price than when compared to stainless steel grind chambers.
Plastic
Plastic units feature a grinding chamber made with high-tech thermoplastic polymer. While this material does not rust or corrode, it can break eventually. For this reason, plastic units are usually the cheapest and lightest option.
Material is just one factor when choosing a garbage disposal. It is easy to focus on the materials of a unit, but horsepower is just as important. A higher HP garbage disposal may be worth it in turn for opting for plastic or galvanized steel materials.
Price
Garbage disposals can range in price, anywhere from $50- $500. The more you spend, the higher-quality features you will get, like a quieter motor or multiple grind stages. It can be helpful to consider a budget not only for the garbage disposal but also for the tools you may need for installation.
Some of the best garbage disposals come with the power cables you need, whereas others may require you to buy additional items for installation.
If you are not comfortable with installing a garbage disposal on your own, then you will also have to factor in the cost of a professional plumber.
Safety Features
The best garbage disposals also have safety features to protect you and your family, as well as your household utensils. Auto-reverse mode is an important feature that reverses the direction of the grind chamber once the unit is full. This works to clear the jam.
Some disposal units also come with an add-on safety cover. These continuous feed models don’t let you turn on the unit until the safety cover is in place.
If you have children, especially young ones, it is a good idea to keep them away from a continuous feed model. Don’t let them put their hands or utensils in, or near, the unit.
It is also a good idea to avoid placing items, like silverware or tools, directly into the garbage disposal unit. Establish a few safety rules for your household when installing the garbage disposal unit.
Other Features to Consider
In addition to your garbage disposal, you might also consider other available features. A few of these garbage disposal features include:
- Auto-reverse: An auto-reverse feature helps you unclog your unit. If it gets clogged, it automatically reverses the grinder.
- Multiple grind stages: With multiple grind stages, you can break down more solid products.
- Universal installation: A universal installation system may or may not be important to you. This is a system that fits most garbage disposals of the same brand.
These are features that may be useful to you and your household. These features can improve the convenience of your disposal unit.
Types of Garbage Disposals
Most disposal units come in one of two designs:
Continuous Feed Disposal Units
Continous feed disposal units are one of the most common types of garbage disposals. It features a simple design that grinds food waste quickly when you turn on the switch. They tend to be easy to install.
The downside of continuous feed garbage disposals is that they can be more dangerous than batch feed as they have an open design. They are designed to add new food waste to the disposal’s grinding chamber while the motor is still running.
Fortunately, many continuous feed units come with a safety cover.
Batch Feed Disposal Units
Batch feed disposal units only grind when you have added the food waste and turned on the unit. They can be safer than continuous feed disposal units but also can be less convenient. As the name indicates, a batch feed garbage disposal grinds things in batches.
Although the size of the unit depends, most batch feed units can handle three to five cups at one time per grind. With a batch feed model, you have to wait to add additional waste.
Should You Buy a Disposal Warranty?
Deciding whether or not to buy a warranty with your disposal unit is an important decision. A warranty can protect you from manufacturer defects. It is important to note that most manufacturer warranties do not cover normal wear and tear.
The price of the disposal unit that you choose will likely be an important factor in whether or not you buy a disposal warranty. Cheaper units are more likely to break, but they can be as cheap as $50, so the price of the warranty may not be worth it.
Because a manufacturer’s warranty does not cover wear and tear, it will likely not cover a cheaper unit wearing down faster.
Disposal units that are costlier are less likely to break, but if they do, the added protection of a warranty can help you protect your investment.
FAQs About Garbage Disposals
Are Garbage Disposals Good for the Environment?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has actually done a lot of studies on how disposals impact the environment. While more research is needed, the EPA has stated that garbage disposals are better than landfills.
The research is still new when it comes to how garbage disposals affect the environment, but there is promise that they may be a source of renewable energy in the future.
Some cities do have rules against garbage disposals, so it is important to know these before buying or choosing the right one. Find out if your municipal sewage systems can handle garbage disposals.
Additionally, some cities that do allow garbage disposals require that you first upgrade your septic tank or have it emptied more often. Always check the code before installing a new garbage disposal.
What Can You Put into a Garbage Disposal?
To prevent clogs or jams, it is also a good idea to know what to put in your garbage disposal, and what to avoid. The horsepower and design of your garbage disposal will determine the specific food waste that it can handle. But, as a general note, most garbage disposals can handle the following types of food waste:
- Fruit scrapes
- Fruit pits
- Vegetable peels
- Corn cobs
- Cooked meats
- Leftover food
- Liquid foods
- Ice
Things Not to Put In Your Garbage Disposal
Here are a few things not to put in your garbage disposal:
- Clamshells
- Grease
- Eggshells
- Non-food items
This is not a complete list. It is always a good idea to check your owner’s manual to find out the specific food waste that your garbage disposal can handle.
A good rule to follow is to avoid treating your garbage disposal like a trash can. While most garbage disposals are designed to handle soft food waste and some larger food scraps, it is not the same as a trash can.
Of course, your specific garbage disposal will dictate the exact items it can handle. The best garbage disposals include materials like a stainless steel grind chamber, giving you more durability.
Additionally, if your unit ever makes any weird grinding noises, it could be because it is blocked. You should avoid putting tougher waste in a grinding unit that is already blocked.
What Should I Know Before Installing a Garbage Disposal?
Before installing a garbage disposal, you want to consider a few things:
You Will Use More Water
Garbage disposals use a lot of water. With a continuous feed model, you have to run the cold water the whole time it is grinding. You should also continue to run the cold water for another 30 seconds after you turn off the grinding chamber. With an increase in water use, you may notice an increase in your water bill.
Your Plumbing Needs to Be Up To Date
Before installing a new disposal unit, you should ensure that your plumbing is up to date. If your kitchen sink is already prone to clogs, then adding a continuous or batch feed garbage disposal will likely only make the problem worse. Double-check that your drain system and septic system can keep up with your unit.
You can usually install your garbage disposal in a few hours. However, if you need to update your drain system, it may be necessary to work with a professional plumber.
How Do I Install a Garbage Disposal?
Once you consider the above factors and you decide to install a garbage disposal, you can do so with the following steps:
- Turn off the electricity
- Remove the previous unit
- Remove the discharge tube from the garbage disposal
- Remove the dishwasher drain, if there is one
- Connect the power cord, if it doesn’t have one
- Insert the drain flange
- Install a rubber or fiber gasket mounting ring
- Mount the garbage disposal
- Connect it to outlet
- Tighten the fasteners and check for any leaks
In some cases, you may also need a licensed electrician. You will need a GFCI outlet near the HP garbage disposal. If you don’t have one, it may be necessary to update your electrical.
The specific unit that you buy will also determine how easy, or difficult, installation is. Some units come with EZ mount application systems.
What Problems Should You Expect With a Garbage Disposal?
As with any household item, garbage disposal units can be prone to problems. Knowing what these problems are ahead of time can help you prevent them.
Here are a few problems that are common with both continuous feed or batch feed garbage disposals:
Leaking
Garbage disposals can leak. This is usually due to one of the following problems:
- Improper sink flange/mounting assembly
- A loose rubber gasket on the wastewater outlet
- Improper hose size on the dishwasher inlet
- Cracked or loose seal
You can usually troubleshoot by running the water at a low level. Pay attention to where the leak is coming from.
Jamming
Garbage disposals can also be subject to jamming. This is due to blocked food scraps or food waste. It can also be due to grinding food waste that is tough and not right for your specific unit. For example, lower HP garbage disposal units cannot grind bones.
Clog
Clogs in the grinding chamber itself are expected with most disposal units. However, clogs are also possible in the sink’s drain pipes.
Rust
Rust is also a possibility with certain garbage disposals. Stainless steel materials do the best job at preventing rust.
However, even with other materials that are more prone to rusting, there are things that you can do to prevent rust from ruining your garbage disposal. One important tip is to avoid hot water. Always use cold water when draining food waste.
Hot water can make the food waste dissolve too quickly. While on the surface this seems like a good thing, it actually leads to the food waste liquifying and getting stuck to the grinder and blades.
Over time, the food damages the protective layering and leads to rust.
It is also important to let the garbage disposal dry out between uses. Otherwise, the water sits and can eventually rust the unit.
If your current garbage disposal has rust, it is best to replace it. Never pour harsh chemicals down your sink’s drain.
What is the Difference Between Direct-Wired or Plug-In Garbage Disposal?
Garbage disposals typically come in two types, a direct-wired or plug-in unit. Here is what you should know about the differences:
A direct-wired garbage disposal is a hard-wired garbage disposal unit that goes in an electrical box or in the sink base cabinet. You can also install it on a wall near the sink. You will use a wall switch to control a direct-wired type of garbage disposal.
A plug-in garbage disposal is a separate unit that you plugin when you want to use it. You plug the unit in the outlet, usually in the sink cabinet.
The biggest difference between the two is usually price. A direct or hard-wired grind chamber will cost more than a plug-in disposal unit.
However, a plug-in unit may not have as powerful of a grinding chamber, which means that it is limited on the type of waste it can manage. The plug-in garbage disposal is also more likely to be a batch feed garbage unit.
You have more control over the unit you pick, and the wiring method that you use, when redesigning your kitchen. Which type of unit you pick usually depends on your current setup.
Can you Insulate a Garbage Disposal?
While you cannot insulate a garbage disposal in the traditional definition, there are products that can reduce your noise output. First, it can be helpful to buy a unit that comes with sound seal technology. If noise is an important consideration to you, then you may consider a batch garbage disposal rather than a continuous feed model.
Finally, if you don’t want to give up other garbage disposal features but still want a quieter unit with a permanent magnet motor, you can also add a cover.
The normal dB output of a garbage disposal is 60 dB. With the right insulation and quiet features, you can get a dB rating as low as 25-45 dB.
How Do You Maintain a Garbage Disposal?
Routine maintenance is important to ensure your garbage disposal is working properly. Cleaning is a necessary part of maintaining your unit. Using products like baking soda and vinegar can remove the debris in your unit. This can prevent it from rusting, which will cause it to wear out much faster.
You should also check that the grinding chamber is not clogged or jammed in between uses. Food items that get stuck can not only begin to smell, but can also reduce the durability of the grinding chamber.
How Do You Clean a Garbage Disposal?
Cleaning your garbage disposal is important. Otherwise, soft food waste can build up and begin to smell. It can also lead to your unit becoming clogged.
Fortunately, cleaning your garbage disposal is easy. All you have to do is dump a mixture of vinegar and baking soda in the drain. Be sure to close, or remove, the removable splash guard. Let the baking soda contents soak for a few minutes for the best results.
Open, or replace, the removable splash guard and turn on the permanent magnet motor while running cold water. Depending on your unit and model, it may require a degreaser from time to time.
How Do You Unclog a Garbage Disposal?
Even the best garbage disposal can get clogged. You can unclog your garbage disposal with the following steps:
Step 1- Identify the Clog
Before removing the clog, you want to find out where it is. If you can visibly see clogged food in the drain, then you can remove it physically. It is important to avoid ever putting your fingers, or any other item, in the drain, while it is on.
It is not only possible but also likely that the clog is lower in the unit.
Step 2- Use a Cleaner for Drain Pipe Clogs
If your garbage disposal is clogged in the drain pipes, then a cleaner may help you loosen the debris from it. Create a mixture of baking soda and vinegar and let it sit in the grind chamber, where it will flow to the pipes and loosen the clog.
Step 3- Allow Water to Run for a Few Minutes
Sometimes, running cold or hot water can help to loosen a clog in the grind chamber or even in the pipes.
You may have to repeat these techniques a few times to remove the clog. If you are still unable to remove the clog, it may be necessary to contact a licensed plumber.
Tips to Prevent Clogs
Once you get rid of the clog, consider its cause so you can prevent it from clogging again. Nothing is as frustrating as pushing some food waste into the garbage disposal and turning it on, only to find that it is still clogged with contents of last night’s waste.
Even worse, you don’t notice that it is clogged until there is a weird smell coming from your kitchen sink.
Continuing to use the unit without unclogging can wear down the grinding units much faster.
Hopefully, by now, you have a good idea of how garbage disposals are made and what features are important when shopping for them. Many factors go into choosing the best garbage disposal and no single unit is best for all households. Picking the right one requires that you consider your household needs and preferences.
Why Trust Kitchen Infinity?
Our writers and reviewers thoroughly research every aspect of kitchen appliances or home improvement products so you can make a well-informed decision when investing in these products. We evaluate top quality products from several brands within budget friendly price ranges and contrast consumer reviews, surveys, satisfaction forms, brand performance, and annual appliance rankings. We go to great lengths to ensure that your next buy is worth every penny!
Dino Paccino
Dino is a lifelong writer and home improvement specialist. He enjoys bringing cutting-edge information on home renovation and remodeling to Kitchen Infinity.
