A garbage disposal is an essential appliance in any modern kitchen that helps remove food waste and prevent unpleasant odors in the trash can. It works by shredding food scraps into tiny particles, which can then be easily disposed of through the kitchen drain. This not only helps keep the kitchen clean and hygienic but also reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills, contributing to a cleaner environment.
In this article, we will explore the benefits of using a sink garbage disposal, how it works, and what factors to consider when choosing one for your home. We will also provide some tips on how to maintain and clean your garbage disposal to ensure it remains in good working condition for years to come.
Why do you need garbage disposal?
A garbage disposal is a useful appliance that provides several benefits in a modern kitchen. Here are some reasons why you might need garbage disposal:
- Convenient and Hygienic: A garbage disposal makes cleaning up after meals more convenient and hygienic. Instead of throwing food scraps in the trash can where they can rot and emit unpleasant odors, a garbage disposal grinds them into tiny particles that can be easily disposed of down the drain.
- Reduces Waste: By using a garbage disposal, you can reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills, contributing to a cleaner environment.
- Saves Money: A garbage disposal can help to reduce your household expenses by lowering the frequency of trash pickups and reducing the amount of food waste that you throw in the trash.
- Prevents Drain Blockages: A garbage disposal can prevent drain blockages caused by food scraps that accumulate in the drain. This can save you money on costly plumbing repairs.
- Improves Kitchen Cleanliness: A garbage disposal helps to keep the kitchen clean by preventing food scraps from attracting pests and emitting unpleasant odors.
Overall, the sink garbage disposal is a useful and convenient appliance that can help to make your kitchen cleaner, more hygienic, and more eco-friendly.
What to consider when buying a garbage disposal.
When buying a garbage disposal, here are some factors to consider to ensure you choose the right one for your needs:
- Motor Power: The motor power of garbage disposals determines their ability to grind food scraps. Look for disposal with a motor power of at least 1/2 horsepower for effective grinding.
- Noise Level: Garbage disposals can be quite loud, so consider choosing one with a noise-reducing feature if you have a sensitive household.
- Size and Capacity: Choose a garbage disposal that fits your sink and has sufficient capacity for your needs.
- Grinding Technology: Look for a disposal that uses stainless steel grinding components for durability and efficient grinding.
- Ease of Installation: Choose a garbage disposal that is easy to install or comes with clear installation instructions.
- Brand and Warranty: Choose a reputable brand that offers a warranty for added peace of mind.
- Price: Garbage disposals are available at a range of prices, so consider your budget and choose a model that fits your needs without breaking the bank.
By considering these factors, you can choose a garbage disposal that meets your needs and provides reliable and efficient food waste disposal for years to come.
What are the pros and cons of a garbage disposal?
A garbage disposal, also known as a waste disposal unit, is an electrical device installed under a kitchen sink that grinds food waste into small particles, which can then be flushed down the drain. Here are some pros and cons of using garbage disposal:
Pros:
- Convenience: Garbage disposals provide a quick and easy way to get rid of food waste, which can save you time and effort.
- Environmentally friendly: By disposing of food waste down the drain, you can reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, which can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- Reduces odors: Garbage disposals can help to reduce odors in your kitchen by quickly getting rid of food waste.
- Cost-effective: Using a garbage disposal can help to reduce the amount of trash bags you use, which can save you money in the long run.
Cons:
- Can be expensive: Installing a garbage disposal can be expensive, especially if you need to hire a plumber to do the installation.
- Can be noisy: Garbage disposals can be noisy when they are in operation, which can be a concern for some homeowners.
- Can cause clogs: If the garbage disposal is not used properly, it can cause clogs in your pipes, which can be costly to fix.
- Can be a safety hazard: If not used properly, garbage disposals can be a safety hazard, especially for children who may be tempted to stick their hands down the drain.
- Can damage septic systems: If you have a septic system, using a garbage disposal can cause damage to the system and may require more frequent pumping.
Overall, a garbage disposal can be a useful addition to your kitchen, but it is important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. Proper usage and maintenance can help minimize the cons while maximizing the benefits.
Conclusion
A garbage disposal is a useful appliance that can help to remove food waste and prevent unpleasant odors in your kitchen. It not only makes cleaning up after meals easier and more convenient but also reduces the amount of waste sent to landfills, contributing to a cleaner environment.
When choosing a garbage disposal, it is important to consider factors such as motor power, noise level, and ease of maintenance to ensure you choose the right one for your needs. By following some simple maintenance and cleaning tips, you can keep your garbage disposal in good working condition for years to come. With garbage disposal in your kitchen, you can enjoy a cleaner, more hygienic, and more eco-friendly environment.
Need help? We've done the research for you and found the best Garbage Disposal on Amazon. Every day, we read hundreds of reviews and try the highest-rated products we have on our list.
Best Garbage Disposal - Reviews
The Best
InSinkErator Garbage Disposal, Badger 5, Standard Series, 1/2 HP Continuous Feed.
About this product
- The Badger Series disposers from InSinkErator garbage disposals are a reliable and functional option for those seeking affordability. With a compact and space-saving design that easily fits existing InSinkErator hardware, installation is quick and effortless.
- These garbage disposals boast durable components, such as the exclusive 1/2 hp Dura-Drive Induction Motor and long-lasting galvanized steel parts, ensuring the dependable grinding of everyday food scraps.
- As the number one disposer brand in America, InSinkErator has more American-built garbage disposals in US homes than all other brands combined. With a full line of models available, there is an option to suit every need and budget.
- From meal preparation to cleanup, InSinkErator makes it fast and easy to keep your kitchen clean with its iconic appliances: garbage disposals and instant hot water dispensers.
- InSinkErator has a history of innovation for the sink, having invented garbage disposals in 1927. As the world's largest manufacturer of garbage disposals and instant hot water dispensers for both home and commercial use, InSinkErator is a trusted and reliable choice.
The video tutorial overall was much less intimidating than we thought. No need to hire a plumber and did it yourself!
Some customers said that it didn't last as long as they expected.
Our Thoughts - All companies have a small percentage of products that will fail.
If you have any problems, InSinkErator will take care of the issue and you will be completely satisfied.
Very Good
About this product
- Host Series: Designed for those who frequently cook for guests and need advanced cleanup power
- Powerful Grinding: 2,700 RPM, ¾ horsepower Vortex motor provides fast, powerful grinding of tough food scraps and helps reduce jamming
- Noise Reduction: Designed with SoundSHIELD sound-deadening insulation
- Simple Swap: Fits most existing assemblies, including another brand; includes pre-installed power cord; compact design is lightweight for easy installation and frees up valuable space under the sink
- Sertic Safe: Safe to use with properly-sized septic tanks
- Reduce Waste: Disposals reduce waste sent to landfills, making them an eco-friendly option for your home
- Built To Last: 10-year limited warranty with in-home service guarantees help is there when you need it
It was relatively easy to install (no need to be a specialist at sink plumbing, you'll be fine putting it in yourself). It has a 'twist-on' collar that you mate to the sink, then the unit itself simply locks in with a 1/4 turn. Great value garbage disposal unit. Quiet and powerful with a 10-year limited warranty.
A few customers said that it is louder than they expected. Others mentioned that the box was opened and had missing items.
Our Thoughts - There is a 'knock-out' piece for the dishwasher drain, make sure you fish that out of the unit. If you don't, it will be very noisy.
Good Value
About this product
- This garbage disposal has a 10-size dimension and comes with a high-speed motor that jams less, thanks to its 1/2 HP, 2600 RPM (115v) permanent magnet motor. It features a dishwasher hookup for easy cleaning.
- The EZ Mount system allows for a quick and easy kitchen sink installation, and the removable splashguard makes cleaning a breeze.
- The disposal comes with corrosion-resistant grinding components and a 2-year Limited warranty.
- The pre-installed power cord eliminates the need for electrical expertise or additional electrical work. Its compact and lightweight design makes it an excellent space-saving option under the sink, and the stainless steel and plastic sink flange provide durability and longevity.
It is light, quiet, and easy to install following the video or check YouTube if you run into a problem. It saves space and runs quietly we think it's great. runs at 2,600 Rpm and is designed to reduce jamming.
It may not fit some cast iron sinks and can be a bit difficult to install generally. A few customers received used and damaged garbage disposal units.
Our Thoughts - Good value for money. It's a powerful and reliable unit.
Good
About this product
- The Waste Maid garbage disposer boasts a powerful 1/2 horsepower 2600 RPM permanent magnet motor that reaches full power on the initial rotation.
- Features an anti-jam Torque Master stainless steel grinding system that provides maximum torque for cutting through waste, along with a durable turntable with balanced impellers for less vibration, quieter operation, and longer life.
- This continuous feed disposal allows you to add food waste even while it is running, but it is important to run water while in operation.
- The disposer comes with a standard 3-bolt mounting system for fast and easy installation, serving as a direct replacement for most garbage disposal brands with the same mounting system.
- The package includes an attached power cord, a removable splash guard, a stopper, and a dishwasher connection.
Many happy customers say that they are really glad they made this choice. It gets rid of solid food very fast, stronger, lighter, more powerful, and so much quieter than the old-school units.
Some customers said that durability is questionable. A few customers reported that they received damaged units and missing items.
Our Thoughts - This unit is so lightweight and quiet. From a happy user: "Replaced my more expensive one with this and so far no problem."
Good
About this product
The genuine GE Replacement Part for various brand models is the GFC520N, which is identified by its manufacturer model number. It is essential to refer to your manual before ordering to ensure that you are purchasing the correct, compatible part.
It seems to devour any vegetables and fruit scraps very easily. Small but powerful garbage disposal. Fair price and value.
You may need a professional to connect to power.
Our Thoughts - For bigger families, you may need a larger unit. This unit is fine for an apartment with only two people.
Honorable Mention
About this product
- This space-saving garbage disposal is a must-have in your kitchen, especially for small households or houses with restricted cabinet space. It is a reliable and affordable choice for both home and commercial use.
- With its exclusive 3/4 hp Dura-Drive Induction Motor and sound seal technology, it operates with low noise while the 2-Stage multi-grind technology easily handles the toughest food scraps.
- In addition to saving time and making clean-up easy, this innovative food waste disposal is eco-friendly by reducing waste sent to landfills. It is important to note that the item does not come with a power cord attached, which is a separate add-on accessory.
- We stand behind the quality of our product and offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If for any reason you are not satisfied with your purchase, please contact us. We provide a 30-day money-back and a 3-year warranty.
The grinding capability is superior to the Badger in every way. This thing is almost silent when it's running. Installation is quick from start to finish.
A few customers received the sink disposal but nothing else. All the other accessories were missing.
Our Thoughts - The installation is like any other but the weight on this makes it a bit tricky. You may need an assistant to help when you lift it in place so make sure to have someone handy. It is very quiet and it chews through scraps very easily.
