How Much Does It Cost to Install a Garbage Disposal?

Garbage disposals are a convenient way to dispose of food waste. Rather than putting the waste into the garbage, where it could potentially end up in a landfill, garbage disposals grind the waste into tiny particles that can be flushed to the septic tank or sewer. The garbage disposal is installed below your sink, catching waste before it flows into the pipes. They can work manually or by the push of a switch. Most are completely unobtrusive, so you will not know they are installed from looking at your sink.

Garbage disposals come in many sizes based on your needs, and many offer other features, such as quiet operation, at an additional cost. Installing a garbage disposal costs around $250 - $400, with the average homeowner paying around $300 for a ½ HP aluminum disposal, fully installed with a new P-trap. Install a ⅓ HP aluminum disposal with existing traps for around $200 in total. On the high end, purchase a commercial-2 HP stainless steel unit with a new P-trap and GFCI outlet for $1,500.

Garbage Disposal Installation Cost

Garbage Disposal Cost by Feed Type

Garbage disposals are designed to work in one of two ways, both highly effective. The biggest difference is timing. They work either through a batch-feed, where the unit is filled and covered before turning on, or through a continuous feed, where the unit is filled while running.

Batch-Feed Garbage Disposal Costs

Batch-disposal is considered the safer type of garbage disposal. With batch disposal, you fill the unit, cover it, then turn it on. If it is full, it takes time to clear through the waste, and if you find you forgot something, you need to wait until it is done to put new waste in. Because it is covered when working, you cannot accidentally drop something in. You also cannot reach inside and injure yourself. Batch-feeds are good for people who do not frequently use the unit because it only runs when needed. Most units are priced according to size, horsepower, and specialty features rather than on the type. Batch-feed garbage disposals cost between $75 and $300 on average.

Continuous-Feed Garbage Disposal Costs

Continuous-feed disposals work constantly and do not need covering. They require constant running water, which leads to extra water waste. Once the unit is running, you can keep adding more waste to it, and it disposes of large amounts slightly faster than a batch-feed disposal. A continuous-feed is hazardous for fingers and dropped utensils because it is not covered. In most cases, continuous feeds are best for large families and users with heavy waste. Continuous-feed units cost $75 to $1,100 on average. Costs are driven by size, horsepower, material, and other features.

Garbage Disposal Prices by Material

Most garbage disposals are made of aluminum or stainless steel. Both come in continuous and batch feeds and various sizes and speeds:

Aluminum Garbage Disposal

Aluminum models are much less expensive than stainless steel. However, they do not last as long because they are prone to corrosion and leaks. They last roughly 10 years before failing, so they are still a popular material, especially at their lower price point. These are good units for most families and single-person households. They are available in batch and continuous feed units. They range from $75 to $300 for most models.

Stainless Steel Garbage Disposal

Stainless steel units last significantly longer than aluminum, with no risk of corrosion or leaking. In most cases, stainless steel units are primarily used by high-volume households of 8 people or more, where a highly durable unit is more desirable. They are also frequently used in commercial kitchens and other high-use settings. They are most often continuous-feed units. Stainless steel units are more expensive, costing $400 to $1,100 on average.

New Garbage Disposal Cost by Motor Size

Motor sizes for garbage disposals are given in horsepower or HP. These correspond directly to how much waste the unit can handle, and the suggested sizes are based on the number of users in the household:

Larger motors cost more to purchase and run. They may also burn out faster over time, so purchase the smallest unit that accommodates your needs.

Garbage Disposal Prices by Brand

There are several manufacturers of garbage disposals. Each company has attributes, costs, and features that could make one disposal better for your home than another. Below are some of the most common brands and their costs:

Waste King Garbage Disposal

Waste King’s garbage disposal units are designed to be easy to install and use. They come in many sizes, each with a built-in plug so that you do not need to wire the unit. Most come with a minimum 5-year warranty, so the unit lasts and performs consistently. They offer both batch-feed and continuous models. Costs range from $75 to $400, depending on the unit’s size.

Moen Garbage Disposal

Moen is a well-recognized brand in the plumbing industry. If you ask your plumber for a disposal, it is likely a Moen. Moen also has a full range of sizes, styles, and types. Features include sound reduction and power cords so that you can install the unit more easily without requiring an electrician. Costs range from $80 to $300 on average.

InSinkErator Cost

InSinkErator is one of the oldest and most well-known manufacturers of garbage disposals. If you owned a disposal in the earliest years of their use, it was likely an InSinkErator brand. They offer a full range of units, including specialty units with sound dampening and varying speeds to efficiently run the unit. Like other brands, you can find both batch and continuous-feed units with InSinkErator. They cost between $100 and $200 on average

Garbage Disposal Installation Cost

The labor costs for garbage disposal installation are mostly time-related. If everything is ready, in good condition, and the disposal is on hand and easily put in, the plumber will likely only charge for an hour or two of time. If things need to be modified, replaced, or moved to accommodate the disposal, this takes longer and increases the labor and costs. If you do not already have a disposal, you may need a new P-trap to accommodate the unit. Most plumbers charge between $45 and $200 per hour, with most disposal installations running $50 per hour for 3 hours total. This makes the labor costs roughly $150, out of the $300 total for a new aluminum ½ HP disposal with a new PVC P-trap.

Garbage Disposal Installation Process

Installation of a garbage disposal takes between 2 and 4 hours on average, depending on whether the existing plumbing is set up for a disposal, an outlet or electrical receptacle is nearby, the current sink and plumbing conditions, and the disposal type and size.

During installation, water and electricity are shut off to the area. The old plumbing and sink flange is removed and cleaned of any putty.

The new mounting ring is installed on the bottom of the sink, and the disposal is readied for installation. This includes setting it up for electricity and hooking up to the dishwasher if needed.

The drain is connected, and the disposal hooked to its mount. The rest of the plumbing is reconnected to the disposal and dishwasher. The electricity is hooked up, and everything is sealed and tested.

Garbage Disposal Mount

Your garbage disposal is mounted just underneath the opening in your sink. When you look down into the sink, you see the flange and a mounting ring on the other side. The ring is attached to your sink and screwed tightly into place. The disposal unit is installed on this mount. Your unit comes with a ring, but over time, this wears out and needs replacing.

Replacing the ring costs around $15 - $25.

Cost to Replace a Garbage Disposal

Most disposals last between 10 and 12 years before replacing. Garbage disposals can eventually fail for many reasons. If you notice issues, such as needing to press the reset button frequently or the unit frequently clogging, it may be time to replace it.

When installing a new unit, most plumbers remove the old unit at the same hourly rate. But this increases the costs and amount of time needed to install the new unit. This depends on the pipes’ condition and the difficulty of removal. In many cases, removal only adds $25 to $50 to the costs, but the costs could be higher if additional pipes must also be replaced.

If your kitchen is damaged when replacing your garbage disposal, you may need to pay more for additional handyman services. Some common tasks for these contractors may include repairing minor electrical connections, resurfacing walls or backsplash, and restoring/replacing your counters or cabinets. Expect to pay a professional handyman between $60 and $90 per hour for basic construction, plumbing, and cleaning tasks. A handyman can repair damage to your kitchen walls and restore counters and cabinetry. For larger electrical issues, only allow a licensed electrician to assess and resolve the situation. An electrician usually charges around $40-$120 per hour.

Cost to Install a Kitchen Sink and Garbage Disposal

When installing a new kitchen sink, consider adding or updating your disposal at the same time. Kitchen sinks come in many shapes, sizes, and installation styles. If you have your sink undermounted, you cannot have the garbage disposal installed on the same day. Your plumber needs to come back in 24 to 48 hours to hook up the disposal because the epoxy needs time to cure. If you are having a surface-mounted sink installed, the disposal can be hooked up the same day.

The average cost to install a new kitchen sink is around $400 for a drop-in sink. Adding the disposal’s cost makes the project roughly $700. Some plumbers may offer a discount if you install both.

When undermounting the sink, you may have an additional travel charge because the plumber needs to come out twice. However, this is individual to the plumber, so check beforehand. If this is the case, expect an added cost of $20 - $50.

Garbage Disposal Maintenance

The level of maintenance your disposal unit needs varies depending on how often it is used, its age, and the type of items you put in it. Run it frequently to keep it clear, and always run water before and after using it and during continuous feeds.

Do not put large, whole, or solid items into the unit because it could clog. Check frequently for leaks and clean the unit if necessary by pouring in half a cup of baking soda followed by an equal amount of vinegar before running and rinsing with water.

Pros and Cons of a Garbage Disposal

Garbage disposals are convenient and handy, but they are not for everyone. Like all optional appliances, they have attributes and drawbacks to consider.

Most modern garbage disposals are extremely efficient, quick, and quiet. They eliminate odors caused by a build-up of decaying food in the garbage and allow users to scrape and rinse a plate or dish straight into the sink before washing. In some cases, garbage disposals can be seen as an eco-friendly alternative to putting more garbage into landfills.

However, garbage disposals are prone to clogs, particularly when misused. If they are not properly cleaned and maintained, they can clog your pipes. They may develop odors if too much food is left inside, and some cheaper models are also prone to leaks. Some models may be loud, while other models are not meant to be used with specific sinks or septic tanks, meaning there is a high learning curve with choosing the right model.

Garbage Disposal Repair Cost

Garbage disposals last for years, but you may run into issues over time, such as cracked mounts, clogs, or jams. A cracked mount can usually be replaced for $100 in labor, with $15 to $25 for the new mount. A clog or jammed unit is usually a quick $50 solution, or it can take dismantling the unit to fix, which can cost $100 to $150.

If your unit is leaking, it might be time for a replacement, especially if the leak is caused by a housing crack.

Enhancement and Improvement Costs

Anti-jamming Units

New disposals come with anti-jamming technology at no extra cost. This helps prevent clogs and keeps the unit running. Some older models need a special key or wrench, which can be purchased for around $7.

Baffle

Garbage disposal baffles can be placed around the drain to prevent items from falling into the unit, such as utensils. They cost around $15.

Treatment Dispenser

If your unit frequently develops odors, purchase disposal treatments that clean and keep it odor-free. They cost around $8 per treatment bottle.

Push Button System

Some units operate from a light switch, while others use a push button switch mounted nearby. They cost roughly $100 for the entire system and can be mounted on the counter, sink, or cabinet for convenience.

For around $40, you can choose to purchase a push-button kit that allows for a sink-top switch button to operate your disposal. These sink switch kits are made to be easily mounted and usually take less than an hour for your plumber to install, at average plumbing costs of $45-$200 per hour.

Dishwasher Drain Connectors

For about $12, you can route your dishwasher to the garbage disposal, which rids the pipes of debris and waste that your dishwasher would otherwise push through. This reduces the strain on your plumbing from food particles and debris and prevents potential clogs and problems.

Scent-Release Flange

If you notice an odor or unpleasant smell coming from your unit, which is not uncommon, consider investing in a flange that seals and covers the top of the disposal, where foul smells escape. These flanges are widely available and easy to install, costing around $30 at home improvement or hardware stores.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• Garbage disposals must use a grounded outlet for power. If you do not have one already installed nearby, install one for $140.
• You can install garbage disposals in most sinks. However, fireclay sinks crack with the use of a disposal unit. If you have a septic tank, you also need a special disposal.
• Many models include a two-year warranty, which protects from manufacturer defects that may show up in the first two years of use.
• If you live in an area with a septic system and drain field, you need a special disposal made for this purpose. Because leach fields must clear the water and the tank needs to drain properly, the unit must cut up waste even finer to avoid clogs and environmental hazards.
• If you have the tools and some plumbing experience, it may be possible to install a disposal DIY in roughly an afternoon.
• Disposals may make a home more attractive to buyers but do not significantly increase the resale value.
• Most garbage disposals last roughly 10 to 12 years, so their purchase price should be considered as an investment for this time.
• New disposals are equipped with overload protection. They shut off automatically if the system clogs, overheats, or becomes overloaded. They include a button that resets the unit to get it working again. There is often no additional cost associated with this protection.