Plumbing Phase|Step 21 of 33

Replace Garbage Disposal

Old disposals are noisy, slow, and prone to jams. A new disposal grinds faster, runs quieter, and handles tougher scraps.

Time Required

1-2 hours

Cost

$80-$400

Difficulty

Moderate

Disposal Types by Horsepower

$80-$100

Minimum power. Fine for light use, soft foods only. Jams more easily. Budget apartments.

$100-$150

Good for average household. Handles most food waste. Most common replacement choice.

$150-$250

Handles tougher scraps: chicken bones, fibrous vegetables. Less jamming. Worth the upgrade.

$250-$400

Grinds almost anything. Quietest operation with sound insulation. Best for heavy cooks.

Sound insulation: Premium models have SoundSeal technology. Worth it if near living areas.
Stainless grind components: Last longer than galvanized steel. Won't corrode.
Auto-reverse: Motor reverses to clear jams. Found on better models.
Quick-mount system: Makes installation and replacement much easier.
Power cord: Some include cord, some don't. Check before buying.

•InSinkErator or Waste King: The two major brands. Both are reliable. InSinkErator is more common.
•Match the mounting: If replacing InSinkErator with InSinkErator, you can reuse the mounting assembly.
•Consider a switch upgrade: Air switch or toe-kick switch if wall switch is inconvenient.
•Support the weight: Have someone help hold the disposal while connecting. They're heavy.