Best Garbage Disposal

Best Garbage Disposals for 2019

Though it may not be the flashiest or most thought-of appliance in your kitchen, a dependable waste disposal unit is indispensable. But with dozens to choose from, it’s difficult to know which unit will give you the most value for your money and be the best garbage disposal for your particular needs.

We’ve done the research for you below, as you’ll find a comparison chart, in-depth reviews of each unit to make our top ten, and a buyer’s guide to further assist in the decision-making process.

Comparison Chart

NameMotor (HP)Grinding (RPM)Dimensions (in)Rating
InSinkErator Evolution Compact
Editor’s Choice 2019
0.7517258 x 8 x 12.129.7/10CHECK PRICE
InSinkErator Evolution Compact Garbage Disposal
InSinkErator Evolution Excel
Top of the Line Unit
1.00172513 x 12 x 129.7/10CHECK PRICE
Waste King Legend Series L-8000
Includes a Lifetime Warranty
1.0028009 x 9 x 16.29.5/10CHECK PRICE
InSinkErator Badger 5
Durable and Dependable
0.5017257 x 7 x 139.2/10CHECK PRICE
Waste King Legend Series L-2600
5-Year In-Home Warranty
0.5026009 x 9 x 14.259.6/10CHECK PRICE
General Electric GFC520V
Best on a Budget
0.5028005.25 x 5.25 x 12.759.3/10CHECK PRICE
Whirlaway 291
Very Compact
0.5026006.1 x 5.9 x 13.79.4/10CHECK PRICE
KitchenAid KCDB250G
Reliable Appliance Brand
0.5017257.5 x 7.4 x 14.69.5/10CHECK PRICE
Emerson Evergrind E202
Simple Installation Process
0.5017256.3 x 6.3 x 12.69.3/10CHECK PRICE
American Standard High Torque
Most Horsepower on Our List
1.2527009 x 9 x 159.0/10CHECK PRICE
Moen GX50C
Reliable Appliance Brand
0.5026007.5 x 7.5 x 169.4/10CHECK PRICE

1. InSinkErator Evolution Compact – Editor’s Choice 2019

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The Rundown

Although the InSinkErator Evolution Compact is one of the costlier disposals on our list, it earns our top spot as editor’s choice due to its power, durability, reliability and topnotch performance (basically, everything).

As described in its name, a main feature of the Evolution Compact is that it’s, well, compact. At 8 x 8 x 12.12 inches and 19.4 pounds, this unit is a perfect solution for smaller households or kitchens with restricted cabinet space—or even for those who just don’t want to sacrifice more cabinet space than necessary. Despite its small footprint, the Evolution compact doesn’t compromise on power or speed. With a 0.75 horsepower dura-drive induction motor and blades that run at 1725 RPM, this unit is definitely powerful and efficient.

The Evolution series of garbage disposals boast some of the most advanced technologies in the garbage disposal industry. The Evolution Compact is outfitted with an impressively large 34.6 ounce grind chamber and has grinding components made of pure stainless steel to resist corrosion and add longevity to the unit. Where the truly innovative technology shines, however, is its MultiGrind Technology. It features a two-stage grind technology that includes a GrindShear Ring and Tri-Action Lug system that makes tough to grind foods a thing of the past as food waste is virtually liquefied to safely flow down into your sewage system. This reduces clogs and jams, and allows the waste to be more easily disposed of. Furthermore, because the waste is liquefied, this is a better solution, environmentally speaking, in transferring food waste to landfills. Difficult foods that often cause garbage disposals trouble but can be processed by the Evolution Compact include celery, apple cores, potato peels, small bones and fruit pits. Be sure to not overload the unit and to use cold water while running it.

We are also incredibly impressed with the Evolution Compact’s SoundSeal Technology that makes it so you hear almost nothing when the unit is running. The technology includes topnotch insulation around the motor, and two anti-vibration components to prevent sound transmission from vibrations: an Anti-Vibration Sink Mount and an Anti-Vibration Tailpipe. The unit also comes equipped with an sink baffle, which helps reduce sound from escaping the throat of the disposer and actually includes an anti-microbial feature to help inhibit the growth of odor causing bacteria. All of these features make it so that a conversation and normal voice volume is able to be had even when the unit is on.

InSinkErator brand boasts having the easiest units to install with their popular stainless steel Quick Lock sink mount. All you have to do is “twist off” the old disposer and “twist on” the new one. The quick lock is compatible with all InSinkErator branded garbage disposals, including Badger garbage disposals. If you don’t feel confident in your ability to install or simply don’t want to deal with it (or if you do, see this garbage disposal installation how to guide), you can always seek out an expert to handle installation for you. There are also three options of purchasing the Evolution compact: unit alone (with its included Quick Lock Sink Mount, Sink Baffle, Jam-Buster Wrench, Anti-Vibration Tailpipe Mount, clamp, and stopper and installation instructions), unit plus power cord, or unit plus sink and power cord kit. You may also want to purchase the InSinkErator DWC-00 Dishwasher Connector Kit to connect the unit to your dishwasher.

Finally, behind this amazing power and technology, we love that InSinkErator backs the Evolution Compact with an exclusive “We Come to You” 4-year in-home limited warranty. This warranty includes free house calls (including parts and labor) for the entire warranty period. InSinkErator fulfills its in-home warranty through a network of 1500 professional service agents who are trained and certified to install, repair or replace InSinkErator brand disposers. You can make a warranty claim by calling their toll-free service line at 1-800-558-5700. They’ll then provide you with the name and phone number of a factory authorized service agent nearest you. It’s simple and it’s dependable, which is exactly what we want for a kitchen appliance that is used daily.

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Pros

  • Powerful motor with exclusive two-stage grinding that liquefies food waste
  • Compact design for small homes and cramped cabinet space
  • SoundSeal Technology with anti-vibration for minimal noise
  • Quick Lock sink mount for super simple installation
  • “We Come to You” 4-year limited warranties with personal house calls

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Cons

  • Higher price point

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The Bottom Line

This is an incredibly advanced garbage disposal making it one of the most powerful, efficient, and eco-friendly units on our list. It’s also your best bet when a small unit is required to fit into your cabinet space. The Evolution Compact is our top garbage disposal pick for 2019 and beyond.

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2. InSinkErator Evolution Excel – Top of the Line Unit

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The Rundown

With their international headquarters based in Racine, Wisconsin, InSinkErator is proud to be an American company. They actually invented kitchen garbage disposals in 1927, meaning they have over 90 years’ worth of experience with this specific appliance. Their highest household performance models are part of their Evolution Series. Anything more powerful is of commercial grade.

This InSinkErator Evolution Excel is an incredible machine and top of the line. It’s almost sad to see such a beautiful piece of machinery spend its entire life hidden away! Although you can’t see it every day (nor would you want to), this garbage disposal does everything you need it to and more. It’ll handle disposing of all kinds of plant and animal food waste scraps, from more fibrous vegetables like celery and turnip to potato peelings, poultry or beef leftovers, and even bones, too. No need to worry about clogging it up after a busy holiday meal, either. You can host parties, entertain as much as you want, or simply practice your culinary skills. The InSinkErator Evolution Excel can handle anything you wash down the drain.

At the heart of this disposal is its one horsepower Dura-Drive induction motor. Most disposals have about one third of that kind of power. It runs on high powered induction, the same type of technology found in high end cooktops. The motor spins at 1725 rpm (revolutions per minute), which helps power the built in MultiGrind technology, which contains three different grinding stages. While you wouldn’t need its full grinding power to take care of the morning’s leftover eggs, you definitely would after a pork tenderloin dinner. This InSinkErator will use the exact grinding power it needs for the job. After your food gets through the three grinders, it’ll be the perfect size for your septic tank.

We know what you’re thinking: something this powerful has to be noisy, right? Not in this case! The InSinkErator Evolution Excel comes equipped with the company’s SoundSeal technology to ensure an ultra quiet performance. This reduces vibrations and works in tandem with the disposal’s quiet collar sink baffle to block noise from coming up through the drain. You can use this disposal in homes with open floor plans and not worry about interrupting other family members. The grinding sound isn’t obtrusive. In fact, many users report that they can’t even hear it over the splashing of their sink water.

Worried about jams and clogs? Most modern appliances come with computer chip technology, and this garbage disposal is no exception. It has a Jam Sensor Circuit that automatically detects possible food jams or clogs. Once the clog has been found, the torque is increased up to 500% to break down the foods. Then it switches grinding power to the Auto-Reverse grind system and helps break up the particles to move the waste along. You don’t have to do anything other than turn it on for it to do this. Although, you might hear a slightly louder grinding noise. Thanks to this feature, you can pour harder materials like nuts, coffee grounds, and fresh vegetables down the drain.

When it comes to quality, this machine has you covered. It’s made of stainless steel components that are tough, durable, stain resistant, and will last for years. Since a garbage disposal comes in contact with water nearly every single day, the parts materials become important. Stainless steel will resist any corrosion caused by the grinding of food waste. You want your food to break down, not the disposal!

The grind chamber itself is 40 ounces in size, which is pretty massive. That will hold a lot of food waste! You get a great warranty in case any parts do break down. The company stands by its products. If you’ve bought another InSinkErator model, this one will fit existing mounting assembly. It has a quick lock sink mount that makes it easy to install or replace with an upgraded model, compatible with most three bolt mounting assemblies.

Besides the InSinkErator Evolution Excel itself, there are other things that come with it. You get full installation instructions, a user manual, a Quick Lock sink mount, a stainless steel stopper, discharge tubes, a sink baffle, a Jam-Buster wrench, a clamp, and hardware. The disposal has a lower mounting ring, an anti-vibration mount at the top, a dishwasher inlet, and an anti-vibration tail mount. You’d disconnect the sink drain, then follow the instructions to affix the disposal to the flange.

This machine doesn’t come with a switch or power cord, so you’d have to purchase those separately for installation. Since it’s so large, it is recommended that you carefully measure the space under your sink so it can fit. This machine is heavy, so keep that in mind as well. You might want an installation helper!

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Pros

  • Super powerful 1 Horsepower induction motor\
  • Three grinding stages turn even dense foods to mush
  • Quiet and built with the SoundSeal technology to reduce noise
  • Has a Jam-Sensor Circuit that automatically detects clogs
  • Well made with stainless steel parts
  • Very large 40 oz. grinding container
  • Comes with a nice warranty
  • Made by an American company in the USA

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Cons

  • Too big to fit in smaller homes
  • Doesn’t come with a power cord
  • 110V switch not included
  • Higher price point

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The Bottom Line

A garbage disposal may not be the most glamorous machine, but when it works well, it just works and you’ll be happy with it for years. Such is the case with this InSinkErator Evolution Excel model. After you install it, just flip a switch, and it will take care of your food waste with ease and quietness.

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3. Waste King Legend Series L-8000 – Includes a Lifetime Warranty

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The Rundown

As a close runner-up to our editor’s choice, the Waste King Legend 8000 does not fail to impress with its power, efficiency, and list of awesome features. With a small footprint, weighing it at 14.7 pounds and with dimensions of just 9 x 9 x 16.2 inches, the Legend 8000 packs a powerful punch. Whereas most high end garbage disposals are equipped with a half horsepower motor, this unit boasts double that. It’s impressive 1.0-horsepower ‘Vortex’ permanent magnet motor is energy-efficient and high-speed at 2,800 RPM. Between the motor and the stainless steel grinding components, this disposal will grind just about anything.

Although the Legend 8000 is incredibly powerful, it was also designed and built in such a way as to prevent wear and noise. The grinding chamber is made of glass-filled nylon, which are completely rust free; and so you will never have to worry about corrosion. They also insulated the the stainless steel grinding components to reduce the noise created by the disposal system.

We also love the ease of use that the unit provides. It has a continuous feed system (see the linked article for information on continuous feed vs batch feed), allowing you to add food while the motor is running. It is equipped with heavy cast stainless steel anti jam swivel impellers, which means less clogging, less bad odors, and less headaches. And in case you’re worried about the mess that might result from all of this powerful grinding, the unit comes with a removable splash guard that’s easy to clean.

Since we’re not plumbers, we love that the Legend 8000 follows through on its promise of easy installation. It functions on a fast-and-easy mount system, and includes all the necessary hardware for no-hassle installation. It is compatible, properly sized, and safe for use with septic tanks. It also has a front mount reset button, which comes in handy if ever needed for maintenance. In addition to the drain elbow and gasket, the unit also comes included with a 36-inch power cord, and the previously mentioned removable splash guard. In addition, it may be helpful for installation and maintenance to purchase the Waste King 1025 Sink Stopper and Splash Guard for EZ Mount Disposers, Waste King 1023 Universal Dishwasher Connector Kit, and Garbage Disposal Installation Kit. Before installing, make sure your kitchen can support the required 115 volts, 60 Hertz, and 7.0 current-amps to operate.

Finally, we are incredibly impressed by the Legend 8000’s lifetime warranty. This warranty includes a limited mechanical warranty, meaning that if your disposal develops a material or mechanical defect within the lifetime of the original purchaser, it will be replaced in your home—free of charge. The lifetime warranty also covers any sort of corrosion on the rust free grinding components.

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Pros

  • Ultra powerful, efficient and high speed motor (1.0 HP, 2800 RPM)
  • Insulated grinding components to reduce noise output
  • Continuous feed system
  • Easy installation and mounting
  • Lifetime warranty

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Cons

  • Higher price point

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The Bottom Line

If you are willing to pay a tiny bit more, you can’t do much better than the Waste King Legend 8000. With its incredible power, laundry list of features, and lifetime warranty, there’s no question this is one of the best garbage disposals.

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4. InSinkErator Badger 5 – Durable and Dependable

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The Rundown

If you’re looking to get a top name brand like InSinkErator for at a reasonable price point, the Badger 5 is for you. Adding to this, you would be making a very good choice to invest in an InSinkErator. For over 75 years InSinkErator has a leader in the industry for food waste disposers. Badger is their standard disposer line, promising to be basic, reliable, and functional. All of their only disposers manufactured in the U.S.A., but the company has grown into the largest food waste disposer manufacturer and best-selling garbage disposer brand in the world. InSinkErator is such a trusted name in food waste disposal that nine out of ten plumbing professionals choose InSinkErator brand garbage disposals for its product quality, durability, sound and grind superiority, and in-home warranty.

As previously mentioned, Badger garbage disposals are a reliable and functional choice when affordability is the prime concern. With slightly less power and features than its premiere Evolution series cousin, the Badger 5 still provides efficiency and functionality. It is built with a 0.5 horsepower dura-drive induction motor with a grinding speed of 1725 RPM—the same speed as the Evolution Compact. The grind chamber still has a roomy 26 ounce grind chamber, which offers a lot of space. And the whole unit, including the grind system, is constructed of durable galvanized steel. At 7 x 7 x 13 inches and 14.1 pounds, this compact unit is durable and dependable.

The Badger 5 features a one-stage grind technology, which includes a GrindShear Ring. This ring works right through tough to grind foods and liquefies them. Food waste that has been liquefied is much easier and more safe for your sewage system and for decomposition in landfills. And like its Evolution series cousin, the Badger is also “continuous feed”, meaning that you can add food while the unit is actually running.

What makes InSinkErator such a desirable and popular brand is the ease with which you can install their products. All InSinkErator garbage disposal models, whether in the Evolution or Badger series, feature their popular stainless steel Quick Lock sink mount. All you need to do is ‘twist off’ the old disposer and ‘twist on’ the new one. And with the Quick Lock system, you can replace any InSinkErator branded garbage disposal. So if you start with the Badger and a few years from now decide to upgrade to an Evolution series model, the installation will be as simple as a twist since the sink mount will already be in place.

We also love that the Badger 5 provides everything you will need in the box, including the Quick Lock sink mount, a jam-buster wrench, tailpipe, tailpipe gasket, stopper and installation instructions. You have the option to purchase the unit with a power cord kit or, if you already have one from an existing unit, you can purchase the unit alone. Because the Badger 5 is compatable with dishwashers, you may also want to purchase the InSinkErator DWC-00 Dishwasher Connector Kit.

Another InSinkErator only feature is their exclusive “We Come to You” In-Home Limited Warranty. The Badger 5 is covered with this unique warranty for two years. It includes free house calls (including parts and labor) for the entire warranty with service from a network of 1500 professional service agents who are trained and certified to install, repair or replace InSinkErator brand disposers. In order to make a claim, just call their toll-free service line at 1-800-558-5700 and they’ll provide you with the name and phone number of a factory authorized service agent nearest you.

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Pros

  • Affordable price point
  • Compact size
  • Powerful induction motor with high grind speed
  • Galvanized steel for durability
  • Easy installation with Quick Lock sink mounting system
  • 2-Year Limited “We Come to You” warranty

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Cons

  • Less horsepower than some other models
  • More basic version

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The Bottom Line

While not as flashy or powerful as its Evolution series cousin, the Badger 5 is a durable and dependable unit backed by the highly regarded InSinkErator name. It will easily fit in small spaces and provide the food waste functionality needed for any average household.

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5. Waste King Legend Series L-2600 – 5-Year In-Home Warranty

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The Rundown

As you may have noticed, this is the second Waste King Legend in our garbage disposal reviews article. The great news for you, is that this unit—the L-2600—has many of the same features at a reasonable price. Waste King is a no fuss company that focuses primarily on garbage disposal units. With all of their resources going into this appliance, you know that their products are good. And although slightly less powerful than its L-8000 brother, the L-2600 is still an amazing choice for your home.

The unit still boasts a 0.5 horsepower permanent “Vortex” magnet motor that is incredibly high speed at 2600 RPM. That is only slightly less RPMs than the L-8000 and still higher than most units on the market. Made from corrosion proof stainless steel and rust-free grinding components, you will never have to worry about the unit’s durability; it will serve you for many years to come. To further protect against corrosion, the grinding chamber is made of glass-filled nylon. In addition to this high quality construction, the grinding system includes stainless steel swivel impellers that reduce jamming.

Other impressive features of the L-2600 is it’s “continuous feed” ability. This means that you don’t need to turn the unit off to add more food waste. Once it’s running, you can simply add as much waste as necessary. The grinding components are insulated in order to reduce noise created by the disposal unit. Around the unit is an easily removable splash guard that keeps things tidy and is easy to clean. They’ve also included a front-mounted reset button, which allows for simple operation. And at 9 x 9 x 14.25 inches and 9.8 pounds, this compact unit will fit almost anywhere. Waste King was definitely considering ease of use and maintaining a peaceful kitchen environment when they designed this unit.

The L-2600 unit boasts a fast-and-easy mount system, including all of the necessary hardware in the box, making for a no-hassle installation. In the box you’ll also find a 36-inch power cord and the previously described removable splash guard. Powered by electricity, the unit requires 115 volts, 60 Hertz, and 4.5 current-amps to operate. It is safe for properly sized septic tanks. You may also want to consider purchasing a Waste King 1025 Sink Stopper and Splash Guard for EZ Mount Disposers and a Waste King 1023 Universal Dishwasher Connector Kit, since the disposal unit is compatible with dishwashers.

Waste King is very confident in all of their products, especially the L-2600. They back the unit with a limited mechanical warranty; if the disposer develops a material or mechanical defect within five years of purchase, it will be replaced in your home—free of charge. ALso, because they are so adamant about rust free components and grinding chamber, the garbage disposal comes with a lifetime warranty against corrosion.

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Pros

  • Powerful, high speed motor
  • Anti-corrosion grinding chamber and components
  • Continuous feed feature
  • Anti-jam stainless steel swivel impellers
  • Fast and easy mounting system with all mounting materials included
  • 5-year in-home warranty and lifetime anti-corrosion warranty
  • Reasonably-priced
  • Compact design

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Cons

  • Not as powerful as some other units

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The Bottom Line

This unit is a wonderful option for those wanting the power and efficiency of the Waste King name at a reasonable price. With many of the most important features in place, this is a dependable, efficient, and powerful garbage disposal.

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6. General Electric GFC520V – Best on a Budget

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The Rundown

Although at a lower price point, you sure do get a killer deal with the General Electric GFC520V. The first thing we noticed is it’s incredibly compact design; even more compact than those designed to be “compact”. With 5.25 x 5.25 x 12.75 inch dimensions and weighing only 9 pounds, this unit can be placed in even the smallest of sink cabinets. This makes the unit absolutely perfect for small apartments or homes where kitchen storage is an issue. And even though the unit itself is petite in stature, it still provides a roomy 27-ounce grind chamber, which is more than enough space for disposing your food waste.

While incredibly affordable, the GFC520V is also expertly made with topnotch materials. It boasts a heavy duty 0.5 horsepower permanent magnet motor with an over 2800 RPM grinding action. This speed is comparable to the highest on our list. The grinding blades and the turntable are made of galvanized steel for increased power and durability. Stainless-steel, dual-swivel impellers are present to aid against jamming. And the armature shaft if constructed of cold-rolled carbon steel. Finally, a stainless steel sink flange and removable splash guard with stopper are included.

We are also impressed with how technologically advanced the GFC520V is. The food-waste disposal system also provides a two-level precutter, which further protects any jams or clogs. Even the toughest of foods are perfectly grinded to safely and effectively be disposed of. The unit has an on/off wall-switch and a manual-reset overload protector, for additional safety. In addition to the safety features, we love the easy-to-use continuous feed option, which allows you to add more waste even while the unit is running. To operate it, simply remove the sink stopper, turn on a medium flow of cold water, flip the switch to ON, and scrape in the food waste. Before turning the disposal off, let the water and the disposal run for about 25 seconds after the shredding and grinding stops to ensure all waste is thoroughly flushed through the trap and drain. Waste us quickly taken care of with no food backups or lingering waste in your drain. Finally, with this much power usually comes a lot of noise (think commercial kitchens). However, the GFC520V is outfitted with great insulation, to keep noise to a minimum.

Installation is very straightforward due to the EZ Mount installation system. Splash guard and stopper are included, but you will have to purchase a power cord kit if you don’t want to do the direct wire power connection. And because the unit is also compatible with dishwashers, also be sure to purchase a dishwasher connector kit. GE covers this product with a 1-year limited replacement plus 1-year additional limited parts warranty.
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Pros

  • Lower price point
  • Extremely compact design
  • Very high grinding speed (RPM)

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Cons

  • Power cord not included
  • Slightly less powerful motor

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The Bottom Line

A reasonably-priced model, it’s definitely also one of our best. With an impressively compact design and amazing functionality, this unit is perfect who are tight on space and on cash.

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7. Whirlaway 291 – Very Compact

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The Rundown

The Whirlaway 291 is a budget-friendly option with many of the same features that you would find on higher-end models. For this reason, this garbage disposal is perfect for those whose primary concern is price, but who also don’t want to compromise on function. Whirlaway is actually a subsidiary of Waste King, who already have two other spots in our garbage disposal reviews article. With food waste disposal being their primary focus—it’s even in their name!—you can be confident that you are getting a quality product at a reasonable price.

The first thing to notice about the Whirlaway 291 is it’s credibly compact, space saving design. At 6.1 x 13.7 x 5.9 inches and a featherlight 8.7 pounds, the disposal unit will fit in even the smallest of cabinets. And you will have plenty more valuable storage space under your sink. The lightweight unit is also that much easier to install. And although garbage disposals are not necessarily kitchen design elements, we appreciate its pretty blue color.

Although the Whirlaway 291 is compact, it definitely is not weak. It boasts a 0.5 horsepower vortex-powered permanent magnet motor. Even more impressive is its lightening fast 2600 RPM grinding speed. That speed competes with the fastest motors of any of the units in our garbage disposal reviews article. Being such a lightweight model, the Whirlaway 291 actually produces more power per pound than most models on the market.

We also appreciate the garbage disposal’s thoughtfully built-in durability. All of the grinding components are manufactured of corrosion resistant materials, so you won’t have to worry about rusting or unnecessary maintenance. It also has a removable splash guard included with the unit. The splash guard keeps things tidy around your kitchen, especially when the unit is running. And since it’s removable, cleaning this garbage disposal is a breeze. Finally, the unit is compatible with properly sized septic tanks, which makes it installable in a wider variety of places.

The Whirlaway is designed with the PLUMB E-Z Mount System which allows for quick and simple installation. For the installation, be sure to to also purchase a power cord kit. And you may also be interested in the Waste King 1025 Sink Stopper and Splash Guard for EZ Mount Disposers as well as the Waste King 1023 Universal Dishwasher Connector Kit, if you’d like to use it in conjunction with your dishwasher. Whirlaway backs the product with a 2-year “Over the Counter Replacement” warranty.
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Pros

  • Powerful, high-speed motor
  • Corrosion resistant grinding components
  • E-Z mount system for simple and quick installation
  • Super compact design
  • No questions asked, 2-year “over the counter replacement” warranty
  • Lower price point

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Cons

  • Power cord not included
  • Less features than others on the list

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The Bottom Line

For those who want a garbage disposal that will simply get it done and who are more concerned with the price tag than with all the bells and whistles, the Whirlaway 291 is for you! Powerful, efficient, and compact—this is a budget friendly and efficient unit perfect for any home.

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8. KitchenAid KCDB250G – Reliable Appliance Brand

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The Rundown

When it comes to kitchen appliances, there are few names that garner as much respect as KitchenAid. From major appliances to countertop appliances to kitchenware, they, time and again, produce appliances that are well built, reliable, and effective—for almost 100 years! And their garbage disposals are no different. Built for durability and efficiency, you won’t be disappointed with the KitchenAid KCDB250G. As with all of their products, the design is topnotch and the Made-in-America manufacturing is dependable. At 14.6 x 7.5 x 7.4 inches and 14.2 pounds, the disposal will fit easily into most kitchens. Built completely of kitchen grade stainless steel, it’s also extremely durable. And although garbage disposals don’t need to be the prettiest appliance in your kitchen, this one is definitely eye pleasing.

As with all KitchenAid garbage disposers, the KCDB250G features a motor that rotates at 1725 RPM for effective grinding. And powered by a 0.5 hp motor, the unit is extremely effective in grinding and disposing of food waste. We love the easy-to-use continuous feed option, which allows you to add more waste even while the unit is running and makes cleanup quicker after meals. To operate it, turn on a medium flow of cold water, turn the unit on, and then scrape in the food waste. Before turning the disposal off, let the water and the disposal run for about 25 seconds after the shredding and grinding stops to ensure all waste is thoroughly flushed through the trap and drain.

Important safety features include an overload protection with a manual reset. You’ll never have to worry about the unit becoming too full and causing permanent damage to your drains or pipes. It’s also connected directly to an electrical switch, making operation easy and safe. If you’d prefer to plug it in instead of using a direct wire, be sure to purchase a power cord kit. Furthermore, because the KCDB250G is dishwasher compatible, also look into purchasing a dishwasher connector kit.

Installation is straightforward and KitchenAid offers a one year limited warranty on the disposal.

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Pros

  • Reliable and beautiful design that comes with the KitchenAid name
  • Made of durable stainless steel
  • Continuous feed feature
  • Overload protection with manual reset

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Cons

  • Less powerful motor
  • Shorter warranty

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The Bottom Line

A lot of trust comes with the KitchenAid name; and this unit is no different. For those who want a sturdy, dependable, and efficient unit backed by a brand they trust, this disposal is for you.

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9. Emerson Evergrind E202 – Simple Installation Process

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The Rundown

Another great, budget friendly option can be found in the Emerson Evergrind E202. This durable, powerful and efficient garbage disposal comes with a lower price tag. The most notable feature is its space saving design, which is a must for small houses and tight cabinet spaces. At 13.7 pounds and just 6.3 x 6.3 x 12.6 inches, the unit leaves plenty of valuable storage space below your sink. And although this unit is small, it is powerful and strong. Constructed of rugged galvanized steel, you never have to worry about the unit’s durability. It will last you for years to come.

Like we mentioned above, we love that although the unit is compact, it is still very powerful and efficient. The Evergrind E202 boasts a half horsepower heavy duty motor with an impressive grinding speed of 1725 RPM. With that power and speed, cleaning up after dinner and disposing of food waste happens super efficiently and without jams or clogs; if you’re curious, we found Huffington Post’s article on how garbage disposals work quite enlightening. We especially love the unit’s 26 ounce grind chamber, which is super spacious—especially for such a compact machine. This means that more food waste can be placed into the unit without it getting overloaded. And because the motor is a quiet dura-drive induction motor, cleaning up doesn’t have to be a disruptively loud occurrence either.

Because the Evergrind E202 is outfitted with a Quik-Lock Sink Mount installation system, installing the unit is very simple and straightforward. Emerson makes the process either by providing all of the following in the box with the actual unit: plastic stopper, “Jam-Buster” wrench, discharge elbow, mounting gasket, tailpipe, and tailpipe gasket. The power cord is also included, which isn’t the case with many of the units on the market, and even on our top ten best garbage disposals. Emerson also provides a 1-year warranty on the unit.

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Pros

  • Budget friendly
  • Powerful and quiet motor with high grinding speed
  • Power cord included
  • Compact, space-saving design
  • Spacious 26 ounce grinding chamber

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Cons

  • Less features than other models
  • Only 1-year warranty

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The Bottom Line

This powerful yet budget friendly unit is perfect for those who are prioritizing affordability but don’t want to sacrifice on performance. With a large grinding chamber and the motor to back it, food waste is no issue for the Evergrind E202.

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10. American Standard High Torque – Most Horsepower on Our List

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The Rundown

Before getting to the most powerful unit in our article, a quick word on its manufacturer. American Standard has produced quality and innovation for more than 130 years. Their goal has always been to make products that make people healthier and safer. We love their belief that every function deserves a well-designed form, even the less glamorous—like food waste disposal. They are passionate about sustainability, safety, and integrity in everything they do. Their commitment to excellence definitely shows through in their High Torque garbage disposal.

Simply stated, the High Torque is a powerhouse. With the highest horsepower of any unit on our top ten list, the unit boasts a 1.25 hp motor. And, as its name describes, it also has incredibly high torque; 2700 RPM to be exact. This powerful combination results in fast, powerful grinding and elimination of food waste. In order to balance out all of this power, the High Torque is also equipped with a balanced turntable. This makes for smooth, vibration free operation. American Standard took the additional step of insulating the shell, which keeps the noise level down and makes for unobtrusive grinding.

The unit is also expertly constructed. At 15 pounds and 15 x 9 x 9 inches, the garbage disposal is not too bulky, making for easier installation and increased storage under your sink. The inside is made of stainless steel, which prevents food and debris from building up on the blades. The stainless steel material also means that you never have to worry about rust growing on the parts, and therefore less maintenance and repair. The cutting mechanisms are designed in such a way as to allow food and debris to slide off with ease. And the swivel impellers allow the unit to run smoothly, reducing jamming and more noise.

Perhaps the most unique—and ingenious!—feature of the High Torque is its magnetic guard ring. Many disposals don’t include any magnets in their units, and we all know the horrible feeling of dropping a utensil down the drain and then having to fish it out with bare hands. Besides the terror that this causes us, it can be hazardous if a knife or utensil falls into the disposal while it’s running. American Standard solves this problem for us. The magnetic guard ring catches any metal that falls into the disposal. This is especially useful for cleaning of knives, so you never have to reach for a blade down the disposal.

Installation seems fairly straightforward, although there’s no mention of simple click mounts as with some of the other units. Be sure to purchase a power cord kit so that you can plug it directly into the wall. And, because the unit is compatible for use with dishwashers, be sure to also get a dishwasher connector kit before installation. Finally, American Standard backs the High Torque with an impressive 10-year limited warranty.

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Pros

  • Incredibly high powered motor (1.25 hp) with 2700 RPM grinding speed
  • All stainless steel construction
  • Balanced turntable to reduce vibration
  • Insulated shell to reduce noise
  • Magnetic ring that ensures no cutlery falls into the disposal
  • 10-Year limited warranty

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Cons

  • Power cord sold separately
  • Not equipped with any easy mounting technology

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The Bottom Line

For kitchens that will be grinding through tough foods and simply need the power, the American Standard High Torque is the obvious choice. Built to dispose of all foods quickly while still maintaining balance and quietness, this unit would be the perfect addition to any busy kitchen.

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11. Moen GX50C – Reliable Appliance Brand

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The Rundown

As one of the world’s leading manufacturers of plumbing supplies, faucets, shower heads, Moen is also produces quality and highly regarded garbage disposals. As a company, they sets the standard for exceptional performance and reliable, innovative design. And we found this to definitely be true of their GX50C garbage disposal. The sink drain flange is finished with polished stainless steel and the grind components are made of stainless steel, to ensure durability for years to come. And although it is strong, it’s not bulky; the compact design is just 7.5 x 7.5 x 16 inches and 13 pounds, making the unit compatible for even the smallest of kitchens and cabinets.

What we love most about this unit is its sheer power. The Vortex 0.5 horsepower permanent magnet motor operates at full speed the moment it is powered on, similar to many power tools. It performs at grinding speeds up to 2,600 RPM, which grinds through even the toughest of foods and helps to reduce jamming. And with the continuous feed function, you can add food waste directly into the unit while it is running. This makes for quicker cleanup, and that’s something we can definitely get behind!

Although it has similar power and full-speed operation like power tools, it thankfully doesn’t come with the noise that usually accompanies power tools. The garbage disposal’s “SoundSHIELD” is designed to help deaden the sounds levels of the powerful disposal motor at work. This insulation makes it such that the fast acting motor and grinding gears can still function at full capacity, but at a much quieter decibel.

Moen specifically designed the unit to be easily installed. The GX50C is compatible with most three-bolt mounting assemblies, and the “Universal Xpress Mount” is both quick and easy to install. To install the unit, you must simply position the garbage disposal, twist it, and lock it into place. Because the disposal is designed to be compact and lighter weight, installation is even easier—and you’ll find a lot more valuable space under your sink. And the unit is safe for properly sized septic tanks, which broadens the places that the garbage disposal can be used in.

Something that the GX50C boasts that most other units do not have is a pre-installed power cord. There’s no need to hardwire or purchase a cord separately, which saves installation steps and money over other models where a cord must be purchased separately. Besides the actual disposal and the pre-installed power cord, Moen includes all of the following with purchase: removable splashguard—to keep things tidy and for easy cleaning, drain elbow and mounting assembly, sink flange, and polished stainless drain stopper. You may be interested in purchasing a sink strainer with removable deep waste basket for use with your disposal. Finally, Moen provides a 4-year limited warranty with in-home service. They guarantee help is there when you need it.

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Pros

  • Vortex, high-speed permanent magnet motor for powerful grinding and less jams
  • Universal “Xpress Mount” for easy installation
  • Super compact design
  • Continuous feed function
  • SoundSHIELD insulation technology to reduce grinding noise
  • Power cord included and pre-installed
  • 4-year in home warranty

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Cons

  • Higher price point
  • Slightly less horsepower

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The Bottom Line

With power, grinding speed, and durability, the GX50C has pretty much everything you would want out of a garbage disposal. Moen really designed to meet the needs of the consumer, from its compact design to its pre-installed power cord, this garbage disposal promises ease and function.

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Best Garbage Disposal Reviews Buyer’s Guide

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Since they seem to only have one function—disposing food, it may seem that all garbage disposals are pretty much the same. But, believe it or not, there are quite a few features and options to think about before investing in a unit. To help in your research process, together with our reviews (above), we’ve compiled a buyer’s guide below. We go through the main things to look for as you choose the perfect disposal system for your kitchen and particular needs. Additionally, see this article from BuzzFeed regarding freshening up a smelly garbage disposal.

Motor and Grinding Speed

Motor

Most motors that you will find in garbage disposal units on the market are “permanent magnet” motors. This means that its rotor spins at the same speed as the motor’s internal rotating magnetic field. This information is not especially important in choosing the right unit, but you will be interested in knowing the power of the disposal’s motor. Reported in horsepower (HP), the best units will have a 0.50 horsepower, 0.75 horsepower, 1.0 horsepower, and sometimes even 1.25 horsepower motor. The higher the horsepower, the more powerful the motor, and the more effective the garbage disposal. We’ve compiled all of this data for our top ten units in our Garbage Disposal Comparison Chart.

Grinding Speed

Equally important as the motor strength is the grinding speed—the speed at which the disposal’s grinding units rotate. This speed is reported in revolutions per minute (RPM) and generally ranges, in the best units, from 1725 RPM to as high as 2800 RPM. A higher grinding speed means that food is disintegrated more quickly and more effectively. And so it’s a definite bonus to have a very fast grinding speed. This data can also be quickly found on our Garbage Disposal Comparison Chart above.

Dimensions

There isn’t an incredible variation in dimension size between units. However, when dealing with valuable storage space under the sink, even inch counts. Or, if you are in a small house with smaller cabinets, finding a compact unit is of supreme importance. We’ve included a column in our Garbage Disposal Comparison chart with the dimensions of each product. But the most compact is, by far, the General Electric GFC520V.

If, however, an especially small size of unit isn’t your greatest concern, do consider investing in a slightly larger unit. These bigger disposals have a bit more room for a more powerful motor and a larger grinding chamber. The grinding chamber is simply the space where food collects to be ground by the disposal. The unit that scored runner up as our editor’s choice, InSinkErator Evolution Compact, has an impressive 34.6 ounce grinding chamber. This simply means that it can hold a lot more food before becoming overloaded. And that makes your cleanup easier and quicker.

Construction

Again, there isn’t a huge variation in materials being used to construct garbage disposals. However, look for stainless steel as a gold standard for any kitchen appliance, including garbage disposals. Other durable materials we’ve seen used in disposal construction include galvanized steel and glass-filled nylon. For the grinding materials, stainless steel is best so that you don’t need to worry about corrosion or rust. Our editor’s choice, the Waste King Legend Series L-8000, actually includes a lifetime warranty against corrosion precisely so that the consumer doesn’t have to worry about it. (This unit’s grinding components are made of stainless steel).

Additional Features

Swivel Impellers

Look for these to be a part of the grinding components. They aid in grinding the food, but are primarily responsible for preventing jams within the unit.

Two-step grinding / Pre-cutter

Some units will feature an impressive two-step grinding system or a pre-cutter. Both of these mechanisms are in place to allow the disposal to grind through even the toughest of foods, including celery, apple cores, potato peels, small bones and fruit pits, although there are some foods you should never put down your garbage disposal. They help prevent jamming and clogging and turn the virtually turn the waste into the liquid, which will be much easier for your pipes to handle as well as for food landfills to decompose.

Continuous Feed Function

Continuous feed garbage disposals allow you to add food while the unit is running. This is a huge time saver!

Sound Minimization

Different units will have different technologies to look into, but the basic way that sound is lowered is by proper insulation. By insulating the grinding gears, the volume of the grinding action is brought way down. Another interesting approach to reducing sound can be found in the American Standard High Torque. The unit features a balanced turntable, which keeps the whole disposal in balance and reduces vibration—a main source of noise.

Magnetic Ring

This is an ingenious feature that we could all benefit from. The magnetic ring at the top of the disposal catches all cutlery to prevent anything from falling into the grinding chamber. Not only does this save your silverware and your garbage disposal, it also prevents any cuts and injuries from fishing around for sharp knives that have fallen in. This is a great safety feature for those families with younger children who may be helping with the dishes.

Quick Mount Installation

A feature of many of the units in our best garbage disposal article is some form of simple and easy quick mounting installation. This type of installation generally includes a quick mount bracket that the disposal simply twists and locks into. Look for units to have all of the installation materials included in the box with the actual unit. After your garbage disposal is installed, be sure to read up on mistakes to avoid when operating a garbage disposal so that yours has a long lifespan.

Wiring / Electrical Load Requirements

Check out what kind of switch the disposal has—on the unit itself or a wall switch. You should also investigate to see if the garbage disposal requires direct wiring or can get power from a power cord. If the latter, some units come with the power cord and some require the purchase of a power cord kit to convert it.

Most garbage disposals on the market have fairly standard electrical load requirements that won’t need any special wiring. But be sure to look at the requirements and compare to what your kitchen can handle before purchasing.

Warranty

This is a pretty important thing to consider, as there is a huge range in what is offered. Some units come with a pretty standard one-year limited parts and labor warranty, while others—including the Waste King Legend Series L-8000—comes with an incredible lifetime warranty. Other things to consider for the warranty is how a claim is made and resolved. Certain manufacturers will do a simple, no-questions-asked swap if your malfunction falls within the warranty period. Others will even send a qualified professional to your house to swap out the defective unit. While a warranty is important, you should learn how to keep your garbage disposal running smoothly, as this will keep your disposal in a good working condition.

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FAQ

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How Long Do Garbage Disposals Last?

Garbage disposals can last anywhere from seven to fifteen years, depending on the make and model. The things that usually cause a garbage disposal to break is the motor wearing down or the blades losing their sharp edge.

To ensure your garbage disposal lasts as long as possible, avoid putting in bones, coffee grounds, grease, potato peels, and celery. These are just a few common offenders, but there are other items you should avoid putting in as well. If you’re unsure, it’s better to be on the safe side and throw things in the trash.

What is the Best Sized Garbage Disposal?

The best way to estimate the size your garbage disposal is by considering how many people live in your house. More people mean more food scraps, so the bigger your home, the bigger (and more powerful) you’ll want your garbage disposal.

People in Home Horsepower (HP)
1-3 people 1/3 or 1/2 HP
3-6 people 1/2 HP or 3/4 HP
Beyond 6 people 1 HP or more

Don’t forget to check how much space you have under your sink, since that might constrain your options.

How Do You Know When Your Garbage Disposal Needs to Be Replaced?

Garbage disposals have a few signs that they’re not running at their best. If it clogs often, leaks, turns but doesn’t churn, or you find yourself needing to press reset often – it might be time to consider repairing or replacing your garbage disposal.

How Do I Unjam My Garbage Disposal?

If your model has a reversing switch – press that to see if it unjams your disposal. If not, it’s time to do a little DIY.

First and most importantly – unplug your garbage disposal or turn off the circuit breaker that gives it electricity. This will prevent further damage to the disposal and lessen your risk of injury.

Underneath your garbage disposal there should be a hex shaped hole. Some disposals have a hex wrench already attached. If not, get a hex wrench that will fit that hole. Use the wrench to try to free the stuck impellers.

If you’re stuck without a wrench or hex shaped hole, there’s still a way to unjam your disposal. First, double check that your disposal is unplugged or otherwise unable to turn on.

Take a broomstick or wooden end of a plunger and stick it into your sink and down into your disposal. Give it a gentle but firm wiggle back and forth until you feel something move. Remove your tool and try running your disposal. If it works, turn on the water and flush out whatever was jamming it.

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One response to “Best Garbage Disposals for 2019”

  1. janelle

    Thank you for this information. I selected the second one. Made it much easier.

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