How to Choose the Right Garbage Disposal for Your Kitchen

If you are ready for a garbage disposal replacement, it’s important to choose a quality unit for your kitchen sink. Garbage disposals vary in size and horsepower, so finding the right one takes a little work. Follow our guide on how to choose a garbage disposal so you can find the perfect fit for your kitchen plumbing.

Why Choosing the Right Garbage Disposal Matters

Choosing a garbage disposal is important for keeping your kitchen functioning well. A garbage disposal that’s too small or too weak can lead to:

• Frequent clogs
• Loud grinding noise
• Short lifespans or burnouts

The right model improves efficiency, reduces kitchen mess, and extends the lifespan of your plumbing system.

What Size Garbage Disposal Do I Need?

When people ask about garbage disposal sizes, they’re usually referring to horsepower (HP), not the actual physical dimensions. So, what horsepower garbage disposal do you need? It depends on how often you use it and how many people live in your household.

Here’s a quick guide:

• 1/3 HP – Best for small households (1-2 people). Not ideal for frequent or heavy food waste.
• 1/2 HP – Good for small families with moderate usage (2-4 people). Handles soft foods only.
• 5/8-3/4 HP – A solid pick for most households (3-5 people). Can handle fibrous veggies and denser scraps.
• 1-1 1/4 HP – Best for larger families or those who cook often (5+ people). Handles tough scraps like bones or fruit peels with ease.

A good rule of thumb in deciding what size garbage disposal you need is to think about your cooking habits. If you're grinding food daily, invest in a higher HP. For the occasional rinse-and-grind, a smaller HP will do.

What to Look for in a New Garbage Disposal

Choosing a garbage disposal isn’t just about horsepower. To get the best performance and longevity, you’ll also want to consider these features.

Noise Insulation

Some garbage disposals are surprisingly loud, averaging between 76-83 dBA. Look for models labeled “quiet” or with sound-dampening technology to keep grinding noise to a minimum.

Stainless Steel Components

Many plumbers recommend models with stainless steel blades and grinding chambers since they resist rust, stay sharper longer, and are less likely to jam or break.

Batch vs. Continuous Feed

Continuous feed disposals are the most common. You flip the switch and feed scraps as you go, which is super convenient.

Batch feed models require a stopper to activate, making them safer (especially around kids) but slightly less convenient.

Anti-Jam Technology

Some modern disposals include auto-reverse grinding features or jam sensors to help reduce the risk of clogging. This can be a huge help if your household disposes of a lot of fibrous or starchy foods.

How Long Does a Garbage Disposal Last?

On average, garbage disposals last around 12 years. Of course, this depends on how well you maintain your disposal and how quickly you fix disposal problems. Signs that it might be time to replace your garbage disposal include:

• Frequent clogs
• Dull blades
• Leaks

Should You Install It Yourself or Call a Plumber?

DIY is okay if you’re replacing an existing unit with a similar model and no wiring or plumbing needs to be changed.

But you should call a professional if:

• This is a new install
• You need to make electrical changes
• Your plumbing setup is unique

Once you have your new disposal installed, cleaning your garbage disposal regularly can keep it in tip-top shape.

Ready to Grind: How to Pick a Garbage Disposal That Will Last

Now that you know how to choose a garbage disposal unit, think beyond price. Match the horsepower to your household, look for durable materials and quiet features, and don’t be afraid to ask a plumber if you’re unsure about your setup.

Roto-Rooter can help you pick the right model, install it professionally, or troubleshoot any disposal issues that crop up. Call us today or schedule an appointment online for fast, quality service.