If you’re looking to simplify your kitchen cleanup while keeping things efficient, then investing in an American Standard garbage disposal is hands down one of the best decisions you could make.
It’s the perfect blend of power, convenience, and dependability that takes away the dread of kitchen scraps piling up. I’ve been using one myself, and honestly, I wouldn’t go back.
Why exactly do I think it’s worth it? Well, let’s break it all down together. I’ll go through my own experience, some pros and cons, maintenance tips, and how it stacks up against other brands in this comprehensive review.
American Standard garbage disposals, particularly their slimline models, have become a bit of a kitchen hero for me. These units make dealing with kitchen waste as easy as a flip of a switch, and they do it efficiently.
Let’s get into why I’m such a fan and whether it’s the right pick for you.
My Experience Using American Standard Garbage Disposal
When I first got my American Standard garbage disposal, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I had dealt with plenty of disposals before, but this one truly surprised me.
The installation process was straightforward thanks to the 3-bolt mounting system, and I was able to do it myself in about 20 minutes.
I remember being nervous about handling it alone, but it turned out to be easier than I anticipated.
One of the biggest improvements I noticed right away was the noise level. Compared to my previous unit, this one was much quieter.
Sure, there’s an initial “snap” sound when you turn it on, but once it’s running, it’s hardly noticeable.
It’s powerful enough to grind through everything I’ve thrown at it so far – from vegetable peels to chicken bones – without any issues.
The slimline design also gave me extra cabinet space under the sink, which was a nice bonus. I managed to fit in a pull-out garbage bin that I couldn’t before. Overall, it’s been a reliable and effective solution for dealing with kitchen waste, and I’ve found myself really appreciating the antimicrobial agent that helps keep odors in check.
It’s made my kitchen cleanup routine smoother and more efficient, and I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone in need of a new disposal.
What I also love about this garbage disposal is how easy it is to maintain. With regular use, I’ve found that just flushing it with cold water and occasionally grinding up some ice cubes helps keep the blades sharp and free of buildup.
I also toss in citrus peels every now and then to keep things smelling fresh, which is really effective thanks to the antimicrobial features built into the unit. It’s clear that American Standard has thought about every aspect of kitchen convenience here.
Another aspect worth mentioning is the power. The high-torque motor is incredibly effective at grinding up even the tougher scraps like bones and fibrous vegetable peels, which means I don’t have to worry about clogs or jams.
It gives me the confidence to use it without hesitation, which makes cooking and cleaning much more enjoyable. And when you’re someone like me who loves to cook, that extra peace of mind goes a long way.
In short, the American Standard garbage disposal has not only met my expectations but exceeded them. It’s a combination of ease of installation, quiet operation, efficient grinding, and easy maintenance that makes it a fantastic addition to any kitchen.
I’m genuinely happy with the performance, and it’s something I’d suggest to friends or anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen appliances.
Pros & Cons of American Standard Garbage Disposal
When it comes to garbage disposals, reliability, power, and ease of installation are all high on my list of must-haves. The American Standard garbage disposals manage to check those boxes quite well.
Let me lay out the pros and cons based on my experience and user feedback that I’ve come across.
Pros
- All Stainless Steel Grinding Components: One of the standout features of American Standard garbage disposals is the all-stainless steel grinding components. In my experience, this gives the unit a much more robust feel and ensures durability. Unlike cheaper alternatives that use galvanized steel, which is prone to rusting, these stainless steel components keep working efficiently, and you don’t have to worry about corrosion shortening its lifespan.
- Antimicrobial Agent for Odor Protection: I’ll admit, one of my biggest pet peeves with previous garbage disposals was the lingering odor. It didn’t matter how much I cleaned, it was always there. The American Standard disposals use an antimicrobial agent to combat this, and it’s a game-changer. This feature helps reduce the buildup of odor-causing bacteria, keeping your kitchen smelling fresh. You’ll notice a difference right away – it’s one of those “set it and forget it” features I really appreciate.
- High Torque Balanced Grinding System: The power behind the American Standard disposal is impressive. The high-torque, balanced grinding system is what really sets it apart. It grinds everything quickly and thoroughly without jamming, which, to be honest, makes everyday kitchen cleanup a breeze. I’ve thrown in everything from potato peels to chicken bones, and it chewed through it all without a hiccup. No more standing there wondering if I’m going to break it – I feel confident with what it can handle.
- Slimline Design: I opted for the slimline model, and let me tell you, I’m glad I did. Space under my kitchen sink was already at a premium, and with this slim design, I could free up just enough extra room to install a pull-out garbage bin. It’s small changes like this that make such a difference to my overall kitchen flow.
- Ease of Installation: I’m no plumber, but I decided to tackle the installation myself. Using the 3-bolt mount system, it really was a breeze. I think it took me all of 20 minutes. Even if you’re not super confident with tools, the instructions are clear, and you’ll probably find yourself saying, “Hey, I can do this!”
Cons
- Initial Snap Sound on Startup: The high-torque motor comes with an initial “snap” sound when you turn it on. I’ve seen some feedback where this surprised users. It’s not super loud, but it’s there. After the first few uses, you won’t notice it, but it’s something to be aware of if you’re used to a whisper-quiet motor.
- Drain Pipe Adjustment: The drain pipe setup might require a little modification if your previous disposal was shorter or positioned differently. In my case, I had to trim my existing drain pipe by about an inch and a half. Nothing major, but it’s an extra step you may need to consider.
- Size Could Be a Limitation: The slimline design, while saving space, means that the internal chamber is a little smaller compared to larger, bulkier units. Personally, I think the tradeoff is worth it, but if you find yourself grinding larger amounts of waste regularly, it’s something to consider.
Maintenance Tips For American Standard Garbage Disposal
To make sure your American Standard garbage disposal runs smoothly and lasts as long as possible, regular maintenance is key. Here are some things I’ve done to keep mine in top shape, and they’ve made a noticeable difference.
- Keep It Clean: After running the disposal, I always let cold water run for an extra 15-20 seconds. It flushes out any small particles that might still be in the chamber. Once a week, I grind some ice cubes and citrus peels – it keeps the blades sharp and neutralizes any potential odors.
- Avoid Overloading: Even though this disposal can handle a lot, I’ve found that it’s best not to push it to its limits every time. When I have a lot of waste, I feed it in smaller batches. This way, the grinding system works more efficiently without stress, minimizing wear and tear over time.
- Regular Checks on Bolts and Pipes: If you’re doing the installation yourself, you’ll want to check everything after the first week of operation. Tighten up any bolts, especially on the sink flange, and double-check your pipe fittings. It took me only a few minutes, and I avoided any potential leaks down the line. Also, every few months, I take a quick look to make sure everything is still snug and secure.
Comparison With Other Brands: American Standard Vs. the Competition
When it comes to choosing the right garbage disposal, there are several brands that stand out in the market, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. Let’s take a closer look at how American Standard compares with other popular brands like InSinkErator, Criterion, and Waste King.
- American Standard Vs. InSinkErator
InSinkErator is one of the most well-known names in the garbage disposal world, and for good reason.
Their disposals, particularly the Evolution series, are known for being quiet and efficient.
However, I found that the American Standard garbage disposal competes quite well with InSinkErator in several key areas.
For one, the stainless steel grinding components of American Standard are more corrosion-resistant compared to the galvanized steel used in many InSinkErator models, such as the Badger series. This means that American Standard is more likely to stand the test of time without rusting or leaking.
When it comes to installation, American Standard’s 3-bolt mounting system is straightforward and user-friendly. In comparison, the installation process for InSinkErator can be a bit more cumbersome, especially if you’re not used to DIY projects.
In terms of noise, both brands offer quiet operation, but I found the American Standard to be slightly quieter, with only a small “snap” sound at startup.
- American Standard Vs. Criterion
Criterion is a lesser-known brand but still worth considering for budget-conscious buyers.
Criterion garbage disposals tend to be more affordable, but that often comes at the cost of durability and features.
While Criterion units can effectively handle basic kitchen scraps, they lack some of the premium features that American Standard provides, such as the antimicrobial agent for odor protection and all-stainless steel grinding components.
If you’re looking for a disposal that offers solid performance at a lower price point, Criterion could work for you. However, if you prioritize longevity, power, and convenience, American Standard is a clear winner.
- American Standard Vs. Waste King
Waste King is another major player in the garbage disposal market, known for its powerful motors and continuous feed systems.
Compared to Waste King, American Standard disposals are more compact, which is ideal if you have limited space under your sink.
The slimline design of the American Standard model allows for more flexibility in terms of under-sink storage, which was a big plus for me.
Waste King disposals are powerful, but they also tend to be bulkier and take up more space. If you’re someone who has a lot of room under the sink and prefers a continuous feed system, Waste King might be the right choice.
However, for those who value a compact design, quiet operation, and features like odor protection, American Standard offers a better overall package.
Another factor to consider is maintenance. Both Waste King and American Standard are easy to maintain, but I found American Standard’s antimicrobial agent to be an added bonus that makes it easier to keep odors at bay.
The high-torque motor in American Standard also ensures efficient grinding without frequent jams, which is something I value highly in a garbage disposal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
American Standard garbage disposals are actually produced by Joneca Corporation, under license from American Standard. Joneca is well known for producing high-quality kitchen appliances and waste management products.
The best garbage disposal really depends on your needs. If you’re looking for a balance of power, durability, and size, American Standard’s slimline models are great for typical household use. They combine high power with a compact design and come with added features like antimicrobial odor protection, which sets them apart.
For most households, 1.25 horsepower is more than adequate – it’s ideal if you frequently have tough scraps like bones or fibrous vegetable peelings. For smaller households or for occasional use, 1 HP or 3/4 HP might be enough. Personally, I’d say go for the extra power if you don’t mind spending a bit more, as it provides extra peace of mind.
Yes, most plumbers do like garbage disposals, but it depends on the brand and installation process. They’re seen as very useful kitchen tools when installed correctly. Plumbers appreciate disposals like American Standard’s for their reliability and ease of installation, thanks to features like the 3-bolt mounting system.
Wrapping Up
After using the American Standard garbage disposal, I can confidently say it’s a great investment for anyone looking to upgrade their kitchen. It’s compact, powerful, and handles kitchen waste with ease – exactly what you need for a seamless kitchen experience.
If you’re considering a garbage disposal, this is definitely one worth picking up.