How to Select a Garbage Disposal

Need a new garbage disposal? Here are six considerations to keep in mind when selecting a unit that's just right for your needs.

Things You Will Need

In order to select the right garbage disposal, it's imperative you take the time to research various units.

Step 1 Horsepower – Most base, economy garbage disposals usually have only 1/3 horsepower, making them more prone to easily break and overuse. Experts recommend disposals with ½ to ¾ horsepower for single family homes and even 1 horsepower for larger households that have more waste to dispose of.
Step 2 Rust-Proof – Look for garbage disposals that are entirely rust-proof, not just rust-resistant. They are slightly more expensive but are worth the extra cost since they will last longer. Select a unit that is made of stainless steel and plastic or completely stainless steel.
Step 3

Noise Level – You may choose to opt for a newer disposal that has a relatively low noise level. Surprisingly, the more powerful the motor, the quieter the disposal tends to be since many have sound dampening insulation and are designed to run quieter. Insinkerator disposals are well-known for their powerful yet relatively quiet motors.

Step 4

Grinding – There are a myriad of different ways food waste is ground up in various garbage disposals; some have double-edged blades while others have a fast grinding speed or a proprietary grinding system. How the disposal grinds is really a matter of preference since most systems grind just fine.

Step 5

Septic Tank – If you have a septic tank, it’s recommended you purchase a unit specifically designed for septic tanks. Every time the disposal is ran, it injects a small amount of enzymes to help break down the food waste.

Step 6

Additional Features – Consider additional features such as corrosion protection, manual reset buttons, and a dishwasher connection which allows food particles from the dishwasher to be flushed down the disposal.