Is it time to replace your old, worn-out garbage disposal? Because there are different types of disposals with different horsepower ratings, you’ll need to consider which model best meets your household’s needs. Other important things to consider include durability, noise levels, price, and the brand’s reputation.

Horsepower

1/3 horsepower is typically the lowest power rating on disposals. While a 1/3 horsepower units are often the cheapest, we recommend avoiding lowest powered disposals. They are more prone to jamming and are often made from cheaper components that can rust and wear out prematurely.

1/2 horsepower garbage disposals are the minimum recommended power for under-sink disposal. They are affordable and compact enough to fit tighter spaces. If possible, choose a disposal with stainless steel grinding components to increase the lifespan of the unit.

For most kitchens, a 3/4 horsepower disposal will work best. It will have plenty of power to handle all those holiday leftovers and can safely grind potato peels and fibrous foods with no problems. While they will require more space under the sink than lower power units, they will usually operate more quietly than 1/2 or 1/3 horsepower models.

If you do a lot of cooking and entertaining, consider a 1 horsepower disposal. It can take just about anything you can throw at it. High horsepower units feature a larger chamber premium stainless steel components that make quick work of everything from chicken and fish bones to fruit rinds. While 1 horsepower units are top-of-the-line, they can be pretty large, so make sure you measure first to ensure you have enough space under your sink.

Whatever size unit you decide to purchase it’s important to always run plenty of water when operating the unit to ensure the waste does not build up inside the drain.

Have questions about choosing the right garbage disposal for your needs? Call Anthony’s Plumbing. We can help you choose the right disposal for your needs and ensure it’s expertly installed.