Installing garbage disposals in your home

How does it work ?

It works by grinding food waste into fine particles that can easily pass through the plumbing system. The disposal unit is installed under the kitchen sink, where it is connected to the main drain line. When food waste is fed into the disposal, a motorized blade mechanism shreds the waste into small pieces, which are then rinsed away with water.

Benefits

There are several benefits to using a garbage disposal in your kitchen. Firstly, it helps to reduce the amount of food waste that ends up in landfills, where it can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. By grinding up food waste and sending it through the sewer system, they help to reduce the environmental impact of food waste.

Additionally, they can help to prevent clogs in the kitchen sink drain by breaking down food particles before they have a chance to accumulate and block the pipes. This can save you time and money on expensive plumbing repairs.

Types

There are generally two main types of them: continuous feed and batch feed.

Continuous feed: this type operates continuously when turned on. Food waste can be continuously added while the unit is running. They are convenient for disposing of a large amount of food waste quickly.

Batch feed requires the disposal to be filled with food waste and then covered with a stopper before it can be turned on. This safety feature prevents accidents and allows for easier cleaning. They are typically considered safer and are recommended for households with small children.

Are different sizes of it available ?

Yes, there are different sizes of them available to accommodate varying needs and kitchen setups. They are typically categorized based on their horsepower (HP), which can range from 1/3 HP to 1 HP or more. 

Smaller disposals with lower HP (such as 1/3 or 1/2 HP) are suitable for light use and for households with minimal food waste. These smaller units are typically more compact and are ideal for small kitchens with limited space.

Medium-sized disposals with a horsepower of around 3/4 HP are suitable for households with moderate food waste and standard kitchen use. They are versatile and can handle a variety of food scraps.

Larger disposals with higher horsepower (such as 1 HP or more) are designed for heavy-duty use and can easily handle large quantities of food waste, tougher scraps, and bones. These larger units are more powerful and efficient for larger households or commercial settings.

How long do they usually work ?

They can vary in longevity depending on factors such as usage patterns, maintenance, quality of the unit, and installation. On average, a well-maintained model can last around 8 to 15 years.

Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the disposal regularly, avoiding putting non-food items down the disposal, and using it properly, can help prolong its lifespan. Additionally, avoiding grinding hard materials like bones or fruit pits can prevent premature wear and tear on the disposal's blades.

Higher-quality disposals for garbage may have a longer lifespan compared to cheaper, lower-quality units. Investing in a durable and well-built disposal can contribute to its longevity.

The lifespan can vary, but with proper care and maintenance, it is possible to extend its usable life for many years.

What type of food waste can be disposed of in a garbage disposal ?

They are designed to handle most types of food waste, but there are certain items that should not be put down the disposal. Here is a list of common food waste that can and cannot be disposed:

Food waste that can typically be disposed:

Soft fruits and vegetables (citrus peels, lettuce, tomato scraps)

Coffee grounds

Eggshells

Small bones (from fish or poultry)

Pasta, rice, and grains

Small amounts of cooked meat or seafood

Food waste that should not be put down:

Bones from larger animals (beef or pork bones)

Fruit pits or seeds

Grease, fats, or oils

Non-food items (glass, metal, plastic)

Fibrous or stringy foods (corn husks, onion skins)

Large amounts of food waste at once