Understanding Garbage Disposals
Garbage disposals are an appliance installed under a kitchen sink between the sink's drain and the drainpipe. They shred food waste into small pieces that can pass through plumbing. Disposals offer a convenient way to manage food scraps, reduce trash volume, and minimize odors. This buyer's guide covers the different types of garbage disposals, key features, how to choose the right model, installation, maintenance, and safety tips.
Types of Garbage Disposals
Garbage disposals are mainly categorized by their feeding mechanism: continuous feed and batch feed.
Continuous Feed
Continuous feed disposals are the most common type. They have an open mouth and operate as long as the power is switched on, allowing you to continuously add food waste while it's running [1, 15].
- Pros: Convenient for disposing of large amounts of food waste quickly, typically more affordable [8, 15].
- Cons: Can be noisier due to the open design, requires caution to prevent utensils or hands from accidentally entering the disposal while operating [3, 15].
- Ideal for: Households that generate a lot of food waste and prefer quick disposal [31].
Batch Feed
Batch feed disposals operate in a contained manner. You fill the chamber with food waste, then activate the disposal by inserting and twisting a special magnetic stopper [1, 8].
- Pros: Safer, as it can only be turned on with the stopper in place, reducing the risk of injury. Often quieter because of the closed design [1, 3, 15].
- Cons: Less convenient for disposing of large quantities of waste, as you need to operate it in batches [8, 15].
- Ideal for: Households with young children or those prioritizing safety and noise reduction [3, 15].
Key Features to Consider
When selecting a garbage disposal, consider these features:
Motor Power (Horsepower)
The motor's horsepower determines how much the disposal can grind. Options range from 1/3 HP to 1 HP or higher [1, 29].
- 1/3 HP: Suitable for small households (1-2 people) with light usage [1, 5].
- 1/2 HP: Ideal for small to medium households (2-4 people) with regular use [1, 5].
- 3/4 HP: Best for medium-sized households (3-5 people) that handle fibrous foods [1, 5].
- 1 HP: For larger households or frequent use, capable of handling almost all food waste [1, 5].
Higher horsepower disposals often operate more quietly and are less likely to jam [1].
Grind Stages
Garbage disposals can have one or multiple grind stages [1].
- Single Stage: Basic models suitable for general use [1].
- Multi-Stage: Offer finer grinding, which reduces the likelihood of clogs, and are ideal for households that regularly dispose of tough or fibrous foods [1].
Material and Durability
The material of the grinding chamber and components affects the disposal's lifespan [29].
- Stainless Steel: More durable and rust-resistant, leading to a longer lifespan [1].
- Galvanized Steel: Less expensive but more prone to rust [18, 27].
Noise Level
Garbage disposals can be noisy. Look for models with noise insulation or sound dampening technology [3, 29]. Features like insulated housings and vibration-reducing mounts can significantly reduce noise [25].
Anti-Jamming Features
Some disposals have features that prevent or automatically resolve jams [31]. These include auto-reverse functions or manual reset buttons that can help clear obstructions [31].
Septic System Compatibility
If you have a septic system, choose a disposal that is septic-safe. These models often have features that aid in the breakdown of food waste to prevent septic tank issues [5, 18]. Some disposals include a dispenser for enzymes or microorganisms that help break down food waste [18, 28].
Additional Features
- Quick-Mount Systems: Simplify installation [1].
- Removable Splash Guards: Make cleaning easier [32].
- Silver Guard Collars: Prevents metal objects from falling into the disposal [21].
Choosing the Right Garbage Disposal
Selecting the best garbage disposal depends on your specific needs and circumstances. Consider these factors:
- Household Size and Usage: Larger households or those who cook frequently need more powerful disposals [1, 5].
- Type of Food Waste: If you regularly dispose of tough or fibrous foods, opt for a model with higher horsepower and multiple grind stages [5, 31].
- Plumbing System: Ensure the disposal is compatible with your plumbing, especially if you have a septic system [5, 18].
- Space Under Sink: Measure the space under your sink to ensure the disposal fits [21]. Batch feed models typically require more space [15].
- Noise Considerations: If noise is a concern, choose a model with good sound insulation [3, 29].
- Budget: Balance features and durability with your budget [5]. Stainless steel components and advanced features usually increase the price [1, 29].
- Safety Needs: If you have children, a batch feed disposal is a safer option [3, 15].
Garbage Disposal Installation
Installing a garbage disposal can be a DIY project, but professional installation is also an option. Here are the general steps:
- Safety First: Disconnect power to the disposal circuit at the breaker box [19, 20].
- Remove the Old Disposal: If replacing an existing unit, disconnect the plumbing and electrical connections [17, 19].
- Install the Mounting Assembly: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the sink flange, mounting ring, and other components [17, 20]. Use plumber's putty to create a watertight seal [17, 22].
- Connect the Electrical Cord: If the disposal doesn’t come with a pre-installed power cord, connect it following the wiring instructions. Typically, white goes to white, black to black, and green to the grounding screw [1, 20].
- Mount the Disposal: Lift the disposal and align it with the mounting assembly [19, 20]. Rotate the mounting ring to lock the disposal in place [19, 20].
- Connect the Plumbing: Attach the drainpipe and dishwasher drain line (if applicable) [17, 22].
- Test for Leaks: Run water into the sink and check for leaks at all connections [17, 20, 24]. Tighten connections if necessary [20].
- Restore Power: Turn the circuit breaker back on and test the disposal [17, 20].
Important Notes:
- Always consult the manufacturer's instructions for your specific model [5].
- Ensure the electrical line is properly grounded [19].
- If you are not comfortable with plumbing or electrical work, hire a professional [19].
Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Proper maintenance extends the life of your garbage disposal and prevents problems:
Regular Cleaning
- Cold Water Flushing: Run cold water before, during, and after each use to help flush particles through the drain [2, 4, 7, 9].
- Ice and Salt: Grind ice cubes and rock salt periodically to clean and sharpen the blades [2, 4, 9].
- Baking Soda and Vinegar: Pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain to eliminate odors and buildup [7, 9, 14]. Let it sit for a few minutes before flushing with hot water [9].
- Citrus Peels: Grind citrus peels (lemon, lime, orange) to freshen the disposal [7, 9, 11].
- Dish Soap and Brush: Use a brush and dish soap to clean the splash guard and inside the disposal [9, 11, 14].
What to Avoid Putting in a Garbage Disposal
- Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOGs): These can solidify and clog pipes [2, 7, 13].
- Coffee Grounds: May accumulate in drains and cause clogs [2, 6, 13].
- Eggshells: Can lead to buildup in pipes [6].
- Pasta and Rice: These expand with water and can cause clogs [6, 13].
- Fibrous Foods: Corn husks, celery stalks, and onion skins can tangle and jam the blades [6, 13].
- Bones: Large bones can damage the disposal [13, 31].
- Non-Food Items: Never put glass, plastic, metal, paper, or combustible materials in the disposal [7, 13].
Troubleshooting Common Problems
- Disposal Not Working: Check if the unit is plugged in and the circuit breaker hasn't tripped [20]. Press the reset button on the bottom of the disposal [31].
- Jammed Disposal: Disconnect the power and use tongs to remove any obstructions [14]. Some models have a reverse function to help dislodge jams [31].
- Leaks: Tighten the connections [20, 24]. If leaks persist, the seals or mounting assembly may need replacement [20].
- Unusual Noises: Turn off the disposal immediately and inspect for foreign objects or worn components [7].
Safety Tips
Follow these safety tips to prevent accidents and injuries:
- Never Put Your Hand Inside: Even when the disposal is off, never put your hand inside the grinding chamber [6]. Use tongs or pliers to remove objects [14].
- Use Cold Water: Always run cold water when operating the disposal [2, 4, 7, 9].
- Avoid Overloading: Feed food waste gradually to prevent jams [4, 7, 14].
- Supervise Children: Keep children away from the disposal area [3, 15]. Consider a batch feed model for added safety [15].
- Unplug Before Maintenance: Always disconnect power before performing any maintenance or repairs [14, 19].
Conclusion
Choosing the best garbage disposal involves evaluating your household's needs, understanding the different types and features available, and considering factors like motor power, grind stages, and septic system compatibility. Regular maintenance and following safety guidelines will ensure your garbage disposal operates efficiently and safely for years to come. Take the time to research and select a model that fits your lifestyle and kitchen setup.
Next Steps:
- Read user reviews for the models you're considering.
- Check local building codes to ensure compliance.
- Compare prices from different retailers.
- Consider professional installation for optimal performance and safety.