Garbage disposal buying guide

A good disposal is quiet, rarely jams and lasts for years. The right one depends on how you cook, how many people live in the house and whether you are on a septic system.

Horsepower

• 1/3 to 1/2 HP: light use, one or two people.
• 3/4 HP: the sweet spot for most families; grinds finer and jams less.
• 1 HP: heavy cooks and large households; the finest grind and quietest running.

Continuous vs batch feed

Continuous feed runs from a wall switch while you add scraps, which is fastest. Batch feed only runs with the stopper in place, which is safer around kids. An air switch on the sink or counter is a neat alternative to a wall switch.

Noise

Better models use sound insulation and anti-vibration mounts. If the kitchen is open to the living room, it is worth paying for a quieter unit.

Septic systems

Many New Hampshire homes are on septic. A disposal adds solids to the tank, so use it lightly, pump the tank more often, and consider a septic-rated model that adds enzymes to help break waste down.

Will it fit my sink?

Disposals need a standard 3.5 inch drain opening and room under the sink. Small bar and prep sinks often have a smaller drain; see our bar and prep sink guide. Match the sink flange finish to your faucet for a clean look.

Install notes

You need an outlet or hard-wired circuit under the sink, and the dishwasher drain usually connects to the disposal. Knock out the dishwasher plug before connecting it. See our kitchen sink guide.

Common questions

What size garbage disposal do I need?

A 3/4 HP disposal suits most families. Choose 1 HP for heavy cooking or a large household.

Can I have a garbage disposal with a septic system?

Yes, with light use and more frequent pumping. Septic-rated models help break down waste.

Do all sinks work with a disposal?

Most kitchen sinks do. Some small bar and prep sinks have a smaller drain that will not fit one.