Garbage Disposal Replacement Cost

Average garbage disposal replacement cost

The main cost to replacing a garbage disposal is the unit itself. Since it’s usually quick to install, you don’t have to worry about very high labor costs. And if you’re handy, you could even install it yourself.

Type of unit

There are two main types of garbage disposals: continuous feed and batch feed.

• A continuous-feed unit is turned off and on using a wall switch and allows you to keep adding food waste as long as the system is running. These models are the most common and usually less expensive than batch-feed systems. A new continuous-feed garbage disposal can cost anywhere from $90 to $450, depending on the grinding strength and brand, but you can get a reliable unit for around $165 as of publishing.
• A batch-feed system can only dispose of one batch of food scraps at a time, and the system must be covered with a plug for the grinder to work. Batch-feed disposals, which are much less common and harder to find, cost an average of $300.

Both types are connected to a dedicated outlet or hard-wired to your electrical system.

» MORE: How much does appliance repair cost?

Material

Garbage disposals are either made of aluminum or stainless steel. Aluminum is the more popular choice thanks to its affordability: You can expect to pay $75 to $300. However, these models have a much shorter life span — usually about a decade — since they’re more prone to leaks and corrosion.

Stainless steel is much more durable, but it’ll cost you anywhere from $400 to $1,100. If you have a larger family, a stainless steel model may be worth the long-term investment.

Motor strength

The most important distinction between garbage disposals is their grinding strength, which is measured in horsepower. Most homeowners need a one-half- to three-fourths-horsepower unit for their kitchen sinks, but you can purchase models with one-third to 1 horsepower.

Brand

While there are several brands to choose from, some of the most popular include InSinkErator and Moen. Both offer models that run from around $100 to $400, depending on the motor strength. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, Waste King has garbage disposals from $80 to $140.

Garbage disposal installation cost

Installing a garbage disposal is a fairly simple job, but it still must be done safely and correctly. To gain more insight, we spoke with Kodi Wilson, a trained plumber, instructor and campus director at the National Technical Institute (NTI). Wilson said the two biggest factors in your total cost will be the specific model you choose and the route you go for installation.

“A highly efficient DIYer could probably replace their own disposal with under two hours of labor (not including the time it takes to pick up parts and material) and under $200. That would be the low end of the cost,” Wilson said. Of course, not every homeowner will be up to the task of installing their own unit; in that case, you’ll need to hire a professional, which will increase your costs.

Wilson went on to say: “The high end would involve calling a plumbing service technician and having the company supply a high-end model disposal and install it for up to $1,000. Most replacements will be around $400 to $600 when you consider parts and labor.”

What affects the cost of garbage disposal installation?

The exact cost of installing a garbage disposal will depend on a few key factors.

• Electrical wiring: If you’re replacing an existing garbage disposal, you won’t need to worry about electrical wiring. There should already be an outlet installed to plug the appliance into. However, if you’re installing a brand-new one, it’ll need a nearby GFCI outlet. The outlet itself won’t cost much, so you’ll be paying for about one to two hours of labor for an electrician.
• Upgrading and repairs: If you’re upgrading to a more powerful motor or the old disposal caused any damage, you can expect the job to take a little longer.
• Technician: Another factor to consider is whether you’re hiring a general handyman or a licensed plumber to complete the work — plumbers often charge a higher hourly rate. If you’re installing a new system for the first time, it may be worth it to choose a plumber to ensure everything is hooked up correctly.

What if you need to replace your faucet or sink?

You shouldn’t need to replace your sink or faucet along with a garbage disposal, but you may choose to anyway. Almost all sinks with a standard drain hole can accommodate a garbage disposal.

The more important consideration is the size of your under-the-sink area if you’re installing a disposal where there wasn’t one before or upgrading to a more powerful unit that takes up more space. You may also wish to replace your faucet or sink if your current one is old or damaged or if you’re planning to remodel your kitchen in the near future.

Garbage disposal repair vs. replacement

Because garbage disposals are relatively affordable, it’s usually best to replace them completely. That said, there are a few issues that can be repaired inexpensively. Some easy fixes include dislodging an object that’s stuck in the disposal or unclogging a drain or drain tube, both of which you can deal with yourself or with a quick visit from a handyman. If it won’t power on, try the reset button or check that a circuit didn’t trip.

However, if your disposal is leaking, frequently clogging or over 10 years old, you should plan to replace it.

DIY vs. professional garbage disposal installation

Many homeowners with the do-it-yourself spirit can replace a garbage disposal themselves. This is most easily done when swapping out one identical unit for another and when there are no issues with the plumbing or electrical connections.

If you don’t want to take on the work yourself, consider hiring a friend who’s handy. This might be cheaper than having a plumber do the work.

The basic procedure for replacement isn’t complicated, and many homeowners will find they already have the tools they need. However, if you’re at all nervous about it, it may be worth hiring a handyman. Most simple replacement jobs can be completed in under an hour or two and may be worth the extra expense. And if you’re installing a disposal where there wasn’t one, or if you need to repair and replace pipes or electrical wiring, you should hire a professional.

As far as tools go, you’ll need a hammer, Phillips and flathead screwdrivers, a wrench and a pipe wrench. You’ll also need to pick up some plumber’s putty, which you can grab when you buy your new disposal. As always, thoroughly read through and follow the manufacturer's instructions, or watch a video tutorial online.

How to save on your garbage disposal replacement

The best way to save on replacement costs is to replace the disposal yourself, but this option may not work for everyone. If you do need to hire someone and the job is simply swapping one disposal out for another, a general handyman can do this. If more extensive work is required, you may need a licensed plumber or electrician.

You can likely save money by purchasing the unit you need from a big-box store instead of depending on your plumber to provide it. Wilson advises his customers, “If you want to cut down on cost but don't want to do the work, the best thing to do is buy the disposal yourself.”

Garbage disposal maintenance

In the long run, the best way to reduce future costs is to follow best practices for care and maintenance:

• Run your disposal regularly (at least every two to three days)
• Refrain from putting fibrous foods and greases down the drain
• Run cold water for 30 seconds after each use
• Clean your disposal every couple of weeks

One of the best ways to maintain your garbage disposal is to know which foods not to toss down the drain. Avoid the following:

• Fibrous foods like celery
• Eggshells
• Bones
• Pits
• Seafood shells
• Fruit and veggie peels

Additionally, any other waste, like paper towels or plastic, should go in the garbage. Only put food scraps down the drain. You should also avoid using drain cleaner for any clogs, which can eat away at the pipes.

To clean the garbage disposal, pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, and then slowly pour one cup of vinegar. Let the mixture bubble up and sit for 15 to 30 minutes before flushing with hot water.

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