Do you know which is the best garbage disposal for your home? Most people don’t give this handy appliance a second thought until they need to buy a new one. And even then, many just buy the first thing they see. However, not all disposals are the same. Here’s what to consider:
Size Really Does Matter
How big is your disposal? Yes, picking the right size is crucial. If the unit is too small, it won’t be able to keep up and may wear out prematurely. Which size do you need? That depends on how many people live in your household. A 1/3 or 1/2 HP motor may be large enough for a 1-3 person household, but if more people live under your roof, a 3/4 or 1 HP motor is a better option.
Feeding Preferences
Garbage disposals “eat” your leftovers, but there are different ways to feed them. Homeowners can choose between continuous feed and batch feed models. Continuous feed disposals let you put scraps down the drain while the motor is still running. Batch feed only lets you put a single batch in at a time. Which is better? It depends on your needs. Continuous models are the most popular and budget-friendly, but batch feed disposals reduce the risk of injury.
Sewer vs. Septic
Most commercial disposals work with both sewer and septic systems. As long as you only send “disposal-approved” scraps down the drain, you shouldn’t have any issues. (Hint: never put bones or trash in the sink.) However, if you do have a septic system, a unit that features an enzyme reservoir may be a better choice.
Disposals are a powerhouse in the kitchen, but they often get overlooked. Upgrading your disposal is an investment that will keep your sink clear for many years to come. Contact Hill Plumbing & Air to pick out the best garbage disposal for your needs.
