Top 10 best Garbage Disposals products

The Ultimate Guide to Garbage Disposals: A Modern Solution for Kitchen Waste Management

Garbage disposals have become an indispensable appliance in modern kitchens, revolutionizing the way households manage food waste. These nifty devices offer a convenient and eco-friendly alternative to traditional disposal methods, reducing the environmental impact of kitchen waste. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the workings of garbage disposals, their benefits, installation, maintenance, and tips for optimal use.

What Is A Garbage Disposal?

A garbage disposal, also known as a garbage disposer, waste disposal unit, or garburator, is a kitchen appliance that is installed under a kitchen sink and is designed to shred food waste into small pieces so that it can easily pass through plumbing. The shredded food waste is then flushed away with water into the sewage system.

Garbage disposals typically consist of a motor, a grinding chamber, and a rotating impeller or shredder ring. When you turn on the disposal, the motor powers the impeller or shredder, which grinds up the food waste. The resulting small particles are then flushed through the plumbing with water.

Commonly accepted items for disposal in a garbage disposal include fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, and small amounts of leftover food. However, it's important to note that not all types of food waste are suitable for disposal in a garbage disposal. Items like bones, large amounts of fibrous materials (such as corn husks and celery), grease, and non-food items can damage the disposal or clog the plumbing.

How a Garbage Disposal Works

The garbage disposal is affixed beneath a sink and crafted to gather solid food waste within a grinding chamber. Activation of the disposal sets a spinning disc, or impeller plate, into rapid motion, compelling the food waste towards the exterior of the grinding chamber. This action crushes the food into minuscule particles, subsequently carried away by water through perforations in the chamber wall. Contrary to popular belief, disposals are equipped with two blunt metal "teeth" known as impellers on the impeller plate, but they lack sharp blades.

Benefits of Garbage Disposals

Reduction of Food Waste

Garbage disposals significantly reduce the amount of food waste that ends up in landfills. This, in turn, helps mitigate environmental issues associated with the decomposition of organic waste.

Convenience

With a garbage disposal, you can easily dispose of food scraps without the hassle of dealing with a separate compost bin or the need to scrape plates into the trash.

Odor Control

Traditional disposal methods often lead to unpleasant odors in the kitchen. Garbage disposals swiftly eliminate food waste, minimizing the chances of foul smells emanating from your trash bin.

Improved Hygiene

The quick disposal of food waste reduces the chances of attracting pests or harboring bacteria in your kitchen, contributing to a cleaner and more hygienic environment.

How to Choose a Garbage Disposal

Choosing the right garbage disposal for your kitchen involves considering various factors to ensure it meets your specific needs and fits your kitchen setup. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a garbage disposal:

Space

A garbage disposal serves to process food waste in kitchen sinks and is typically located beneath the sink, connecting the drain and the trap. Designed to accommodate standard drain hole sizes of 3.5 to 4 inches, most garbage disposals are universally compatible with various kitchen sinks.

Originally crafted to work seamlessly with plumbing connected to municipal sewer systems, some manufacturers have developed disposals that are septic system-friendly, particularly when used exclusively for disposing of food scraps. Certain septic system units feature cartridges that introduce natural microorganisms to aid in breaking down food waste within the septic tank. These cartridges often contain a citrus-scented fluid, effectively controlling odors emanating from the sink and drain. Replacement cartridges are affordable, starting at around $15 and lasting up to six months.

Material

Optimal models are predominantly constructed with stainless steel components, a material known for its durability and potential to outlast the disposal's motor. Conversely, disposals with plastic parts may eventually dry out and crack over time. While pouring excessive boiling water down the sink may stress plastic components, they should endure as long as the motor, provided usage is within recommended limits. It is advisable to avoid disposals with galvanized steel parts, as these are prone to rusting quickly.

Size

The size of the disposal unit is contingent on the horsepower rating. The power requirement should align with the frequency of your cooking activities and the size of your household. Dimensions of disposal units vary, with the average height ranging from 10 to 15 inches, width from 5 to 9 inches, and depth from 6 to 13 inches. Consider these factors to ensure the chosen disposal meets your specific needs.

Features

While the motor size is a pivotal factor in selecting a garbage disposal, there are other considerations to take into account.

• Brand: InSinkErator, currently owned by Emerson Electric, stands out as the leading brand in garbage disposals. With a diverse range of models in various sizes and configurations, InSinkErator products are widely available at online retailers, home improvement chains, and hardware stores. Other notable brands include Waste King, Waste Maid, and Moen. Opting for major brands often ensures better warranties and easier access to spare parts.
• Warranty: Garbage disposals typically have a lifespan of 8 to 15 years, with warranties ranging from one to 10 years. Higher-priced disposals generally come with longer warranties, although there is minimal mechanical disparity between low-end and high-priced units of the same horsepower. Given that the average disposal outlasts its warranty, it may not be necessary to invest in a unit with an extended warranty. Replacement costs for these appliances are generally reasonable.
• Noise level: Garbage disposals differ in sound-deadening features provided by manufacturers. If noise is a concern, seek disposals with features such as nylon-coated grinding parts, insulated mounting baffles, and other sound-deadening technologies.
• Power cord included: Less expensive garbage disposals may not come with a power cord. While this isn't an issue, it's important to note that you'll need to purchase a power cord separately, adding around $15 to the overall cost, unless you can reuse the power cord from the previous disposal. Additionally, some models are designed for professional installation, requiring a direct-wire connection by an electrician to your electrical system.
• Septic system enzymatic reservoir: This feature provides support to your septic system by offering an additional enzyme treatment, promoting the health of your septic tank.

Types of Garbage Disposals

The primary factor to consider when selecting a garbage disposal, which significantly affects the price, is the horsepower (hp) of the motor. Residential garbage disposals typically range from 1/3 to 1 hp, with the choice between batch feed and continuous feed models being the next important consideration.

• 1/3 Horsepower: The lowest horsepower option is 1/3 hp. Despite being an economical choice, these disposals have limited utility. They are prone to jamming and often feature inexpensive internal components that rust quickly. Consider this option for very limited or temporary use, such as in infrequently used vacation homes. The cost is usually less than $100.
• 1/2 Horsepower: A 1/2 horsepower model is the minimum recommended for typical home use, costing around $100. Smaller than 3/4-hp and 1-hp units, these disposals are suitable for tight spaces. They are ideal for occasional use, provided you are cautious not to overfeed the appliance. Opt for a 1/2 horsepower disposal with stainless steel grind components for longevity, and be prepared for a relatively high noise level, requiring ample water to help food waste pass through.
• 3/4 Horsepower: A 3/4 horsepower unit is well-suited for most kitchens, serving three to five-person families effectively. These disposals handle various types of waste, including challenging items like potato peels and celery. With less risk of jamming, additional features, and improved sound protection compared to 1/2 horsepower units, they can be obtained for under $200. However, they are physically larger, requiring adequate space under the kitchen sink.
• 1 Horsepower: For grinding tougher materials like chicken bones, fruit rinds, and coffee grounds, a 1 horsepower disposal is recommended. These top-of-the-line models, such as the InSinkErator's Evolution Excel, offer better insulation for quieter operation. Featuring complete stainless steel in the grinding chamber and a larger waste capacity, they are virtually jam-proof. Although larger and more expensive, a 1 horsepower disposal can be a worthwhile investment, ranging from $150 for economy models to over $300, depending on features.
• More Than 1 Horsepower: Garbage disposals with 2 hp to 3 hp are typically used in commercial kitchens. Families with eight people or more may opt for a 1 1/4 to 2 hp disposal. As horsepower increases, so does the price, making them suitable for larger households with a corresponding budget.

Cost

On the more economical side, you can acquire a garbage disposal for less than $100 suitable for a two-person household. However, if you have a larger family or engage in frequent cooking, you might consider investing between $200 and $300 for a 1-horsepower unit equipped with distinctive features. Opting for a batch feed model instead of a continuous feed model can elevate your average cost, and depending on the brand, selecting the same horsepower may result in a doubled price.

For those installing a garbage disposal for the first time, anticipate spending approximately $500 on installation expenses, covering a new receptacle, fittings, switches, and labor. The installation process is likely to take around 1 to 2 hours. On the other hand, replacing an existing unit is considerably more budget-friendly, with an estimated cost ranging from $150 to $200.

Maintenance Tips

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your garbage disposal, follow these maintenance tips:

• Regular Cleaning: Clean the disposal by grinding ice cubes, citrus peels, or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to eliminate odors and debris.
• Avoid Hard Items: Refrain from disposing of hard items like bones, shells, or large fruit pits, as they can damage the blades.
• Cold Water Usage: Always use cold water when running the disposal, as it helps solidify any grease or oil, preventing clogs.
• Run Regularly: Run the disposal regularly to prevent rust and ensure all components remain in working order.

Conclusion

Waste disposals have become a crucial asset in contemporary kitchens, providing convenience, environmental advantages, and enhanced hygiene. By ensuring correct installation, consistent upkeep, and conscientious usage, individuals can optimize the benefits of this forward-thinking approach to handling kitchen waste. As the focus on sustainability persists, waste disposals stand out as a valuable inclusion in environmentally conscious households, streamlining waste management practices for a more pristine and eco-friendly future.