There are two basic types of disposals to select from. The most popular is a continuous-feed garbage disposal. This is typically the type of disposal that we are all used to, when you hit the switch and feed the elements to be disposed of, when you finish you shut it off the same way.
The second and less popular type is called a batch-feed garbage disposal. This type offers an additional level of safety as it will only operate when a cover is placed over the disposal flange. Only then can it be turned on an activated to dispose of garbage. The most noticeable benefit of this disposal type is that it will prevent users from putting their hands into the unit while activated, and also keeps keeps small objects such as silverware or kitchen utensils form falling into the disposal while in operation.
One of the disadvantages to batch-feed disposals is that only a small amount of waste can be fed into the unit at a time. So if you have a moderate amount of food waste to dispose, it may take several feds into the unit to dispose of all the waste. Another issue that arises with these types of units, is that the unit will only work with the manufacturer-issued cover, so if it becomes lost or damaged you will have to replace it before being able to use the disposal unit again.
Horsepower
When looking to purchase a garbage disposal unit other than the type of unit that will satisfy your needs, another major component to take into consideration is the horsepower. To assist you in the decision although most of us just assimilate that more is better, cost has a significant medium when deciding on this factor. One major factor to keep in mind is the amount of individuals that reside in the residence, as well as average size and weight of waste that is discarded on a weekly basis. If there is a single individual residing, and you will only be grinding up carrot peels, you can get away with a smaller horsepower disposal. If you have a large family and expect to be feeding all sorts of food wastes into your disposal, or if you are going to be feeding it like a pet then you might want to consider a higher horsepower rating.
Typically you will find the garbage disposals horse power ranges from
Residential garbage disposal ½ horse power, ¾ horse power and 1 horsepower, although the option of 1 ½ horsepower is available also, it is becoming harder to come across given the reasonable price of a decent ¾ horsepower disposal.
Most consumers will want to purchase a ¾ horsepower disposal unit. It provides plenty of power for the average size family, and you can safely feed a moderate amount of food waste through the unity. If you have a larger family or have a chief in your residence you will probably end up taking the safe route by purchasing a unit that outputs at least 1 horsepower.
Additional Factors to Consider
Other issues to consider when purchasing a garbage disposal unit, it is highly recommended that you purchase a disposal unit from a manufacturer with a reputation of quality and reliability. Also the technicians at Shamrock Plumbers have a vast amount of experience combined, ask them what type of disposal they have in their homes. Although some units purchased from the manufacture are not too difficult to install it is always best to hire a professional. To see the original posting of this content visit our garbage disposal page. For more information visit our garbage disposal page on which type or cost to install a garbage disposal unit by a Shamrock professional please give us a call.
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