Garbage disposals are wondrous kitchen tools. Despite our best efforts to eliminate food waste, there always are a few orts leftover. Putting the leftovers in the garbage can result in flies, stinky cans, or pets, making a mess while searching for the morsel. That’s where the garbage disposal comes in.
Basically, the garbage disposal is a small grinder. The disposal unit is attached under a kitchen sink drain, with a switch close by (usually on the wall next to the sink). When the disposal is turned on, a spinning disk, located on the bottom of the unit, with small blades (look for stainless steel) that stick up, grinds and pulverizes food as it’s fed down the drain. As the disposal does it’s job, water running down the drain helps clear the food into your sewer line.
The use of a garbage disposal greatly reduces the amount of food leftovers that end up in your garbage. Disposals are a much more sanitary method for disposing of unwanted or rotten vegetables , their peels, and leftover food, than throwing them into a garbage can.
How Much Does a Garbage Disposal Cost?
As with any other product, costing for garbage disposals range from fairly inexpensive 70$, up to almost $400. For installation, figure another $50 dollars for a simple installation by a handyman. If the disposal requires its own electrical circuit, or one is not available, the resulting electrical work and disposal installation can run upwards of $500.
Residential garbage disposals vary, depending on the size of the motor, and also by brand name. The least expensive disposals, equipped with a ⅓ horsepower motor, cost between $50 and $100. Disposals are also available with ½, ¾, and 1 horsepower motors. Of course, the larger the motor, the higher the cost. The most expensive, name brand units carry a price tag close to $400.
If your home is on a septic system, you will need a disposal which is intended for septic system use. The price for septic units is not any higher than a regular sewage unit.
You are always looking for solid value for your dollar. A cheap, poorly built disposal can be more hassle than help. The InSinkErator brand of garbage disposals is a well-known and trusted brand. They offer a wide range of models, with prices varying from $85 [InSinkErator Badger 1] up to around $350 [InSinkErator Evolution Excel]. All InSinkErator units are highly rated by consumers (at least 4 ½ out of 5 stars). Another well known name in kitchen product is Moen. Their product line in not as extensive as InSinkErator, but their prices are comparable, as are their consumer ratings.
Garbage Disposals Price Between $50 to $100
Garbage Disposals Price Between $100 to $200
Garbage Disposals Price Between $200 and above
Regardless of the garbage disposal you choose, make sure you do your homework. Know exactly what your family requires, and how much you’re willing to spend. With a properly chosen and installed garbage disposal, your days of stinky garbage cans and refrigerators full of little leftovers can be put behind you. Oh happy day!
