Dispose Properly: How to Choose a Garbage Disposal 

You scrape the dinner plates into the sink, flip a switch and watch the food particles disappear. After that, you never think twice about your garbage disposal. You definitely don’t think about installing a new one. But even the best disposals eventually need to be replaced. When that time comes, be prepared with these quick tips on what to consider when shopping for a garbage disposal.

Smells like time to replace that garbage disposal

If you notice these tell-tale signs, it may be time for a new garbage disposal. 

• It frequently gets clogged.
• You reset it regularly.
• The odors aren't alleviated.
• The blades aren’t chopping efficiently.
• You have a leak that can’t be fixed.

Related: Ultimate Guide to Garbage Disposal Maintenance

Types of Garbage Disposal: Batch vs Continuous Feed

There are two types of garbage disposals to choose from: the continuous feed and the batch feed. Both get the job done; however, the continuous feed disposals are the easiest to use. Also the most commonly used disposal, the continuous feed version has an open mouth and is operated by a switch. The batch feed disposal, on the other hand, requires that you place your food waste into the chamber and close the stopper lid to activate the food grinder inside.

If you find that you’re constantly dropping silverware and other non-food items in your disposal, you may want to consider the batch feed version. If, on the other hand, you don’t have that issue and prefer the added convenience of an on/off switch, the continuous feed version is right for you.

Related: 5 Garbage Disposal Dos and Don'ts

How to Pick a Garbage Disposal

It’s easy to know what to buy if you know what to look for in a garbage disposal. Consider how important the following factors are to you:

1. What size garbage disposal do I need?

The smaller the motor size, the fewer and softer the food particles need to be. For example,  a one-third or one-half horsepower (HP) motor is perfect for a single homeowner occasionally grinding soft vegetables. A three-fourths or one HP motor, on the other hand, is much more suited to a large family that often eats at home. It’ll provide smoother operation, finer pulverization and less jams — which equals less stress on your wastewater system.

2. The right grinding chamber size and material

Chambers in disposals with more HP are larger, since their motors can handle more food. And chambers and blades made of stainless steel are longer-lasting, more efficient, the easiest to clean, and they won’t rust.

3. Added features

Of course a garbage disposal is going to make noise. Better quality (and more expensive) units, however, tend to have better insulated grinding chambers, so there’s a marked difference in the noise level. Similarly, some models offer additional features, such as sound baffles (to lower the decibel level of the unit), anti-splash baffles (to keep your sink cleaner) and corrosion protection shields.

Bonus tip: If your home has a septic system consider buying a garbage disposal with an enzyme reservoir to help break down the food scraps.

How to change a garbage disposal

Once you’ve picked out your new garbage disposal, you have another decision to make: have a Pro install it or try to do the job yourself. Here are some DIY instructions for replacing a garbage disposal.

Removing the garbage disposal

1. Shut off the power at the circuit breaker. 
2. Disconnect the drains.
3. Remove the drain tarp from the discharge tube.
4. Remove the disposal from the mounting ring. 
5. Disconnect the electrical assembly. Remove the cover plate and disconnect the old wiring. 
6. Remove the old mount. You might have to remove the existing hardware from the sink. 
7. Remove the flange. If it doesn’t pry loose, turn it about a quarter-turn from below with adjustable pliers.

How to replace a garbage disposal

• Apply plumbers putty around the flange and press it in place.
• Install the snap ring by pulling it open and snapping it into place.
• Tighten the screws evenly till they’re snug against the backup flange.
• Connect to the dishwasher drain.
• Knock out the drain plug with a hammer and remove it from the inlet on the disposal.

Remove and re-attach the wire cover plate.

Connect the electrical cord by matching the wire colors. Push the wire back in and re-attach the plate.

Connect the drain.

Insert the gasket in the discharge outlet. Attach the discharge tube with the flange and bolts. To hang the disposal, align the tabs with the mounting ring. Turn and lock the tabs over the ridges with a wrench. Connect the dishwasher drain, making sure the discharge pipe is lined up properly. Finally, connect the drain pipes.

Take the disposal for a test run.

Put the stopper in the sink drain, fill the sink with water, and check for leaks. Then plug in the disposal and turn on the power.

Here’s a more in-depth walkthrough of how to change a garbage disposal. Make sure you properly maintain your new garbage disposal, and remember to keep it clean.

The clear choice for peace of mind? A home warranty from American Home Shield®

Your home’s plumbing is just one of the critically important systems you rely on every day. To protect the ones you rely on every day, you can count on an American Home Shield warranty. We provide coverage for parts of up to 23 home systems and appliances. It can help make for a more carefree, enjoyable experience as a homeowner. Our home warranty plans are all about protecting your time, your money, and your way of living.

Most homeowners insurance doesn’t cover broken garbage disposals. Just another reason to help protect your budget with a home warranty from American Home Shield. You can choose a plan that covers all parts and components of a garbage disposal. You can request service online and we’ll send a Pro to do the job.

AHS assumes no responsibility, and specifically disclaims all liability, for your use of any and all information contained herein.