Garbage Disposal Replacement Cost

Understanding Garbage Disposal Replacement Cost

A garbage disposal is a kitchen essential that grinds food waste into small particles that flow through your plumbing. Replacement costs $150-$500 for most installations, with the disposal unit itself ranging from $50 for basic models to $400+ for premium options.

Modern disposals are quieter, more powerful, and more efficient than older models. If your current disposal is more than 10 years old, upgrading offers noticeable improvements in noise reduction and grinding performance.

Garbage Disposal Types

Continuous Feed Disposals

Cost: $50-$400 for unit, $125-$600 installed

Continuous feed disposals run when a wall switch is flipped, allowing you to add food waste while the unit operates.

Pros:

• Most convenient for daily use
• Wide variety of options
• Generally less expensive
• Easy to use

Cons:

• Safety risk if hands enter while running
• Switch can be accidentally turned on
• Splashing possible if overfilled

Best for: Most households, adult-only homes, convenience priority.

Batch Feed Disposals

Cost: $150-$350 for unit, $250-$550 installed

Batch feed disposals only operate when a special stopper is inserted and turned, meaning they can't run with an open drain.

Pros:

• Safer for homes with children
• Prevents accidental activation
• No wall switch needed
• Quieter operation (stopper dampens noise)

Cons:

• Less convenient (can't add food while running)
• Fewer model choices
• Higher cost
• Stopper can be lost

Best for: Families with young children, safety-conscious households.

Garbage Disposal Cost by Horsepower

Choosing the Right Horsepower

1/3 HP: Entry-level disposals suitable for minimal food waste. May struggle with fibrous vegetables or large quantities. Best for light users or vacation homes.

1/2 HP: The most popular choice for average households. Handles typical food waste including vegetables, fruit scraps, and small bones. Good balance of performance and price.

3/4 HP: Recommended for families who cook frequently. Handles tougher waste without bogging down. Better noise insulation than budget models.

1 HP: Premium choice for heavy use. Grinds quickly with minimal jams. Excellent for large families or those who entertain frequently. Often includes superior noise insulation.

Top Garbage Disposal Brands

InSinkErator

Price range: $80-$400+

The industry leader with approximately 70% market share. Known for quality stainless steel components and extensive product line.

Waste King

Price range: $50-$250

Known for high-speed motors (2,800 RPM) and competitive pricing. Permanent magnet motors resist corrosion.

Moen

Price range: $120-$350

Quality brand with good warranties. Compatible with InSinkErator mounting systems.

GE

Price range: $100-$200

Reliable mid-range option with good availability at big-box stores.

Installation Cost Factors

Standard Replacement

Labor cost: $75-$175

Replacing an existing disposal with a compatible model typically takes 1-2 hours.

Includes:

• Disconnect and remove old unit
• Install new mounting assembly (if needed)
• Connect new disposal
• Test operation
• Reconnect dishwasher drain (if applicable)

Factors That Increase Cost

New Installation Requirements

Installing a garbage disposal where none existed requires:

• Electrical connection (outlet or hardwired): $100-$200
• Plumbing modifications: $75-$150
• Switch installation: $50-$125
• Potential cabinet modifications: $25-$75

Total new installation: $300-$700

Emergency vs Scheduled Service

A non-working garbage disposal is inconvenient but rarely an emergency. Scheduling during regular business hours saves $50-$150.

Garbage Disposal Replacement Cost by State

Signs You Need Garbage Disposal Replacement

Replace Immediately

• Visible cracks or leaking body
• Motor doesn't turn (not just jammed)
• Burning smell from motor
• Water leaking from bottom

Replace Soon

• Frequent resets required
• Slow grinding/long processing time
• Persistent jams despite clearing
• Loud grinding or metal-on-metal sounds
• Unit is 12+ years old

Repair May Be Sufficient

• Single jam (use disposal wrench)
• Reset button tripped (overload protection)
• Clogged drain (plumbing issue, not disposal)
• Leaking at flange (tighten or replace seal)

DIY Garbage Disposal Installation

Before You Start

1. Turn off power: Flip circuit breaker or unplug unit
2. Check compatibility: Same brand = same mount (easiest)
3. Measure space: Ensure new unit fits under sink
4. Check electrical: Plug-in is easier than hardwired

Removal Process

1. Disconnect power (verify with voltage tester)
2. Disconnect dishwasher drain hose (if applicable)
3. Disconnect drain pipe
4. Support disposal from below
5. Insert disposal wrench and turn to release
6. Lower old disposal

Installation Process

1. Remove old mounting assembly (if changing brands)
2. Apply plumber's putty to new flange
3. Install mounting ring assembly
4. Attach disposal to mounting ring (twist-lock)
5. Connect discharge tube
6. Connect dishwasher drain hose (if applicable)
7. Connect electrical
8. Test for leaks

Pro Tips for DIY Installation

• Same brand is easiest: InSinkErator to InSinkErator uses same mount
• Cardboard support: Place cardboard box under disposal while working
• Check knockout: If dishwasher connected, remove dishwasher drain knockout
• Run water while testing: Check all connections under flow

Features Worth Paying For

Essential Features

• Stainless steel grind components (+$30-$75): Last longer than galvanized
• Overload protection (standard): Auto-reset protects motor
• Anti-jam features (+$25-$50): Auto-reverse prevents most jams

Recommended Features

• Sound insulation (+$50-$150): Significantly reduces noise
• Multi-grind technology (+$75-$150): Finer particles, fewer clogs
• Stainless steel chamber (+$50-$100): Corrosion resistant

Premium Features

• SoundSeal/Ultra-quiet (+$100-$200): Near-silent operation
• Batch feed option (+$50-$100): Enhanced safety
• Quick-mount system (+$25-$50): Easier installation

Garbage Disposal Maintenance

Weekly

• Run disposal with cold water for 30 seconds after use
• Avoid pouring grease down drain

Monthly

• Grind ice cubes to clean blades
• Use citrus peels for freshness
• Clean splash guard with brush

As Needed

• Baking soda + vinegar for odors
• Reset button if disposal stops working
• Use disposal wrench if jammed

How to Save on Garbage Disposal Replacement

1. DIY Installation

Save $75-$200 on labor. Replacing same-brand disposals is straightforward.

2. Buy During Sales

Home improvement stores discount disposals during kitchen renovation promotions and holiday sales.

3. Choose Mid-Range HP

A 1/2 HP disposal handles most household needs—1 HP is rarely necessary.

4. Stick with Same Brand

Changing brands requires new mounting hardware, adding $25-$75 to cost.

5. Skip Premium Features

Sound insulation is nice but adds $100-$200. Consider if kitchen noise is truly an issue.

6. Bundle with Other Work

If having other plumbing done, add disposal replacement for reduced labor rate.

Conclusion

Garbage disposal replacement cost ranges from $125 for a basic DIY installation to $700 for a professionally installed premium 1 HP model. Most homeowners spend $150-$400 for a quality disposal with professional installation.

For the best value, choose a 1/2 or 3/4 HP disposal from InSinkErator or Waste King. Both brands offer reliable performance at competitive prices. DIY installation saves $75-$200 and is manageable for homeowners with basic skills, especially when replacing with the same brand.

Invest in stainless steel grind components for longevity, but sound insulation is optional unless kitchen noise is a significant concern. With proper use and maintenance, a quality garbage disposal provides 10-15 years of reliable service.