Last Updated on March 3, 2022 by Kimberly Crawford
When it’s time to replace your garbage disposal, one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make is what size unit to buy. Too small a garbage disposal and you’ll be dealing with frequent jams; too big and you’ll be wasting energy and money.
So, how do you choose the right size for your needs? In this blog post, we will help you figure out which garbage disposal is best for your home.
What size garbage disposal do I need?
The size of your garbage disposal is determined by two factors: the width of your sink drain and the power (horsepower) of the unit. Most disposals come in either ½-horsepower or ¾-horsepower models.
If you have a large family or do a lot of cooking, you may want to opt for a disposal with more power. But if you have a small sink or limited space under your sink, a ½-horsepower model should be sufficient.
If you’re not sure which size garbage disposal is right for you, consult the chart below:
| Width of Sink Drain (in inches) | Horsepower Required |
| ≤ 18 | ½ HP |
| 19 – 21 | ¾ HP |
| 22 – 24 | ½ HP |
| 25 – 27 | ¾ HP |
| 28+ | ½ |
As you can see, if your sink has a drain width of 18 inches or less, you’ll need a ½-horsepower garbage disposal. If your sink is wider than 18 inches, you have the choice of either a ½- or ¾-horsepower model.
Garbage disposal sizes
Garbage disposal sizes range from tiny to XX-large. The size you need depends on the amount of food waste your household produces and the horsepower of your garbage disposal unit.
Family size and the amount of food waste produced
The average American family produces about 250 pounds of food waste each year. A family of four that averages one pound of food waste per day will need a disposal with a 0.75 horsepower motor. If your family produces more than one pound of food waste per day, you will need a garbage disposal with a higher horsepower motor.
- 1/3 Horsepower: If you have a small family or produce very little food waste, a garbage disposal with a motor of this size should be sufficient.
- 1/2 Horsepower: This is the most common size of garbage disposal. If you have a family of four or more, or produce a lot of food waste, this is the size you will need.
- 3/4 Horsepower: The average American family produces about 250 pounds of food waste each year, so a garbage disposal with this horsepower is ideal for most households.
- 5/8 Horsepower: If you have a very small family or produce very little food waste, this smaller motor may be sufficient.
- 1-2 Horsepower: This is the largest motor size available and is ideal for households that produce a lot of food waste.
The horsepower of your garbage disposal unit
The higher the horsepower of your garbage disposal, the more food waste it can grind. A 0.75 horsepower disposal can grind about one pound of food waste per day. A higher horsepower disposal (such as a one or two HP model) can grind about two to four pounds of food waste per day.
- 1/3 Horsepower: This is the smallest motor size available and is only powerful enough to grind small amounts of food waste.
- 1/2 Horsepower: This is the most common motor size and can grind moderate amounts of food waste.
- 3/4 Horsepower:This is a common motor size for garbage disposals. It can grind about one pound of food waste per day.
- 5/8 Horsepower: If you have a very small family or produce very little food waste, this smaller motor may be sufficient.
- 1 Horsepower:This is a powerful motor that can grind about two to four pounds of food waste.
- 2 Horsepower: This is the largest motor size available and can grind large amounts of food waste.
When choosing a garbage disposal, be sure to size it appropriately for your needs. A tiny disposal won’t be able to handle the amount of food waste produced by a large family, and a high-horsepower disposal can grind more than you need it to.
Related: How Many Amps Does a Garbage Disposal Use?
Factors to consider when buying a garbage disposal
Now that you know what size garbage disposal you need, it’s time to choose the right model for your needs. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
Your budget
Garbage disposals range in price from $50 to $200. If you’re on a tight budget, you may want to opt for a less expensive model.
The amount of noise the disposal makes
Some disposals are louder than others. If you’re sensitive to noise, be sure to choose a model that is quiet.
The warranty
Many garbage disposals come with a standard one-year warranty. However, some models offer longer warranties.
Ease of installation
Garbage disposals can be tricky to install. If you’re not handy, you may want to choose a model that is easy to install.
Energy efficiency
Some models are more energy efficient than others. If you’re interested in saving money on your utility bills, be sure to choose an energy-efficient model.
Materials
Some disposals are made of plastic, while others are made of stainless steel. If you’re concerned about the environment, choose a model that is made of recycled materials.
The size of your kitchen
Make sure to choose a disposal that will fit comfortably in your kitchen.
Power cord
Some models come with a power cord, while others do not. If you’re not comfortable hardwiring your disposal, be sure to choose a model that comes with a power cord.
Quick mount
Some disposals come with a quick mount system that makes installation a breeze.
Anti-jamming feature
Some disposals come with an anti-jamming feature, which helps prevent food from getting stuck in the disposal.
Multiple grind stages
Some disposals come with multiple grind stages, which helps to reduce the amount of noise the disposal makes.
Septic system enzymatic reservoir
If you have a septic system, be sure to choose a model that comes with an enzymatic reservoir. This will help keep your septic system running smoothly.
Eco-friendly
Some disposals are eco-friendly and can be recycled at the end of their life cycle.
Brand
Not all garbage disposals are created equal. Be sure to choose a reputable brand that you can trust.
As you can see, there are many factors to consider when choosing a garbage disposal. Be sure to do your research and choose the right model for your needs.
How to Choose a Garbage Disposal for Your Needs
When it comes to choosing the right garbage disposal for your needs, size does matter. But don’t worry; we’re here to help you figure out which size is best for you.
First, think about how much waste your household produces on a daily basis. If you have a small family or live alone, you probably won’t need a large disposal. But if you have a large family or routinely entertain guests, you’ll want to choose something with a little more power.
Next, consider the type of sink you have. If your sink is deep and has a lot of space underneath it, you may be able to get away with a smaller disposal. But if your sink is shallow or has limited space underneath it, you’ll need to choose a larger size.
Finally, think about the type of waste you’ll be disposing of most often. If you generate a lot of food waste, you’ll want to choose a disposal that can handle it. But if you mainly deal with non-food waste, a smaller disposal will do the trick.
How much HP do you really need?
The average garbage disposal has between ½ and ¾ HP. But if you have a large family or entertain guests often, you may want to choose a disposal with more power.
Are Quiet garbage disposals worth it?
Quiet disposals are a great option if you’re looking for a little more peace and quiet in your home. But they do come with a higher price tag.
Do I need an EZ Mount disposal?
If you have limited space underneath your sink, you may want to choose a disposal that comes with the EZ Mount installation system. This system allows you to quickly and easily install the disposal yourself, without having to use any tools.
How much does a garbage disposal cost?
Garbage disposals can range in price from around $50 to over $400. But before you start shopping, think about your needs and budget to help narrow down your options.
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Types of garbage disposals
There are two main types of garbage disposals: batch feed and continuous feed. Batch feed models require you to cover the disposal with a stopper before turning it on, while continuous feed models do not.
Batch-feed garbage disposals
Batch-feed garbage disposals are a bit more expensive than continuous-feed disposals, but they offer some advantages.
First, since you have to cover the disposal before turning it on, there’s no risk of accidentally turning it on when you don’t want to. Second, batch-feed models tend to be quieter than continuous-feed models.
Continuous-feed garbage disposals
Continuous-feed garbage disposals are the most popular type. They work by using an impeller to chop the food into small pieces that are then flushed down the drain. If you have a continuous-feed disposal, it’s important to choose one with enough horsepower to handle your needs.
If you only have a few items to dispose of at a time, a smaller unit with less horsepower will likely suffice. But if you have a lot of food waste or if you regularly grind up bones or other tough items, you’ll need a disposal with more power.
Some continuous-feed models come with a built-in air switch that doesn’t require an electrical outlet, which can be helpful if you don’t have an accessible one near your sink.
Related: Can You Have a Garbage Disposal with a Septic Tank?
1/3 Horsepower Garbage Disposal
If you have a small kitchen or just don’t produce a lot of food waste, a garbage disposal with a power output of around ⅓ horsepower should do the trick. This size is also good for apartments and other smaller spaces.
½ Horsepower Garbage Disposal
A ½ horsepower garbage disposal is ideal for most homes with a standard kitchen sink. If you have a larger household or entertain often, this size will give you the power you need to grind up tougher items like bones or fruit pits.
¾ Horsepower Garbage Disposal
For households that produce a lot of food waste or for those who want the highest-powered option, a ¾ horsepower garbage disposal is the way to go. This size can handle just about anything you throw at it, making it a good choice for busy families or homes with large kitchens.
1 Horsepower Garbage Disposal
The strongest garbage disposals on the market are rated at one horsepower. If you have a particularly large household or do a lot of cooking, this size will give you the power to grind just about anything. However, it is important to note that these units can be quite loud, so if noise is a concern, you may want to opt for a smaller size.
Garbage disposal brands
There are different types of garbage disposals on the market. You can choose from a variety of brands, including InSinkErator, Waste King, and Badger. Each brand has its own unique features, so you’ll need to do some research to find the best one for your needs.
1. Waste King
Waste King makes a very popular line of garbage disposals. They offer models with various features, including sound insulation and continuous feed operation.
One thing to note about Waste King is that their products are made in the USA.
If you’re looking for a top quality disposal that’s built to last, Waste King is a good option.
2. Kenmore
Kenmore is a well-known brand, and they offer a variety of appliances including garbage disposals.
Their products are decent quality, but they’re not as durable as some of the other brands on this list.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, Kenmore is worth considering.
3. InSinkErator
InSinkErator is one of the most popular brands of garbage disposals. They offer a variety of models with different features, including those that are designed to be quiet and energy efficient.
InSinkErator disposals are also very easy to install, which is something to keep in mind if you’re not comfortable doing DIY work.
4. GE
GE is another big name brand that offers garbage disposals.
Their products are typically of good quality, but they can be a bit pricey.
If you’re looking for a reliable disposal that will last for years, GE is a good option.
5. Moen
Moen is a less well-known brand, but they offer a good selection of garbage disposals.
Their products are reasonably priced and of decent quality.
If you’re looking for an affordable option, Moen is worth considering.
6. Everbilt
Everbilt is a good option for those who are handy and comfortable doing DIY projects.
Their products are relatively inexpensive and of decent quality.
If you’re looking for an affordable disposal that’s easy to install, Everbilt is a good choice.
7. WasteMaid
WasteMaid is another budget-friendly option.
Their products are not as durable as some of the other brands on this list, but they’re a good option for those who are on a tight budget.
8. KitchenAid
KitchenAid is a well-known brand that offers a variety of appliances, including garbage disposals.
Their products are typically of good quality, but they can be a bit pricey.
If you’re looking for a reliable disposal that will last for years, KitchenAid is a good option.
Which is better InSinkErator vs Waste King?
There’s no easy answer to this question. It depends on your specific needs and preferences.
If you’re looking for a top quality disposal that’s built to last, Waste King is a good option. However, if you’re looking for an affordable option that’s easy to install, InSinkErator is a good choice.
FAQs
Are garbage disposals one size fits all?
No! Garbage disposals come in different sizes, so it is important to choose the right size for your needs.
The size of the garbage disposal you need depends on the amount of waste that you generate daily. If you have a small household and generate less than one pound of waste per day, then a 0.75 horsepower garbage disposal should be sufficient.
If you have a medium-sized household and generate between one and two pounds of waste per day, then a one horsepower garbage disposal should be sufficient.
If you have a large household or generate more than two pounds of waste per day, then you may need a larger garbage disposal such as a one and a half or two horsepower garbage disposal.
What is the most common size garbage disposal??
The most common garbage disposal size is a ½ horsepower unit. This will be able to handle the needs of most households. If you have a large family or entertain often, you may need a larger unit.
A ¾ horsepower garbage disposal should be adequate for those with more demanding needs. For really large families or if you have a lot of food waste, you may need a larger unit still. These can handle more waste and have a longer lifespan.
Do garbage disposals fit all sinks??
No, garbage disposals do not fit all sinks. It is important to measure the opening of your sink before purchasing a disposal. Most disposals require an opening that is about two inches wide and three quarters of an inch deep.
How do I know which garbage disposal will fit my sink??
The best way to determine which garbage disposal will fit your sink is to measure the opening of your sink. You can also find this information on the product specifications page of the disposal you are interested in.
What if my sink doesn’t have an opening that is two inches wide and three quarters of an inch deep?
If your sink does not have an opening that is two inches wide and three quarters of an inch deep, you can either purchase a disposal that has a smaller opening or you can enlarge the opening of your sink.
How to measure the opening of your sink
To measure the opening of your sink, you will need a ruler or a tape measure. You will want to measure the width and the depth of the opening. If your sink has an existing hole for a disposal, you can use this measurement as well. Once you have these measurements, you can use our sizing chart to determine which size disposal is right for you.
Where to buy a garbage disposal online?
There are many online retailers that sell garbage disposals, so finding one should not be difficult. However, it is important to make sure that you purchase a disposal from a reputable retailer.
When shopping for a garbage disposal, be sure to consider the size of the unit. The size of the disposal will depend on the amount of space you have under your sink and the amount of waste you produce on a daily basis.
If you are not sure which size garbage disposal to purchase, consult with a professional. They will be able to help you choose the right size for your needs.
Once you have purchased a garbage disposal, it is important to learn how to use it properly. Be sure to read the owner’s manual thoroughly before using the unit. Failure to follow the instructions may result in damage to the disposal.
How much should a good garbage disposal cost?
The cost of a garbage disposal will vary depending on the size and features of the unit. However, you can expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $200 for a good quality disposal.
When shopping for a garbage disposal, be sure to compare prices and features of different units. This will help you find the best deal on the perfect garbage disposal for your needs.
Can I install a garbage disposal myself?
Installing a garbage disposal is not a difficult task, but it is important to follow the instructions carefully. If you are not comfortable with installing the unit yourself, consult with a professional.
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- How Long Does a Garbage Disposal Last? The Truth About Its Lifespan
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- Can You Put Coffee Grounds Down The Sink Or Garbage Disposal?
- Can You Use Drano in a Garbage Disposal?
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- Garbage Disposal Backing Up Into Sink? {How To Fix}
Conclusion
Now that you know the different factors to consider when choosing a garbage disposal, you can make an informed decision about what size will best suit your needs. If you’re still not sure, don’t hesitate to ask a professional for help. With a little research and guidance, you can find the perfect garbage disposal for your home. Thanks for reading!
If you are still unsure of what size garbage disposal to buy, don’t hesitate to contact a professional for help. They will be able to guide you in the right direction and make sure that you purchase the perfect garbage disposal for your home. Thanks for reading!