Have you ever wished that getting rid of kitchen scraps could be easier, cleaner, and just plain faster? I sure did, and that’s when I found the InSinkErator garbage disposal.
If you’re like me, wanting to make kitchen cleanup effortless and avoid those messy trash bags filled with leftover scraps, InSinkErator might be your perfect solution.
Let’s break down my experience with the InSinkErator garbage disposal, its pros, cons, and how it stacks up against the competition—so you can decide if it’s worth it for your kitchen.
Why Choose InSinkErator Garbage Disposal?
To start off, the InSinkErator garbage disposal is not just a gadget; it’s a problem solver.
The Power .75HP 3/4 HP model, which I picked up, makes disposing of food scraps a breeze.
With its compact design, I found it easy to install under my sink without taking up all the space—a definite plus when you’re short on storage.
What I love the most is its ability to grind food waste into super-fine particles, which means fewer clogs and less stress.
Its stainless steel components are another highlight because they ensure durability—a lesson I learned the hard way with my old rust-prone model.
My Experience Using InSinkErator Garbage Disposal
My experience with the InSinkErator Power .75HP has been nothing short of fantastic. From the moment I opened the box, I could tell it was built to last. The installation process, which I often dread, turned out to be quite straightforward.
Thanks to the lift-and-latch mounting system, I was able to install it on my own with minimal effort. The unit has some heft, so I used a car jack to help lift it into place, which worked like a charm.
Once installed, the difference was immediate. The disposal operates quietly, which is a huge improvement over my old, noisy model. It’s powerful enough to handle everything I throw at it—from vegetable scraps to tougher items like small bones.
I love that I no longer have to think twice about what goes down the drain. The MultiGrind technology really does make a difference, and I haven’t had a single clog since I started using it.
One of the best parts is the peace of mind I get from the stainless steel components. My old unit rusted out after a decade, but I feel confident that this one will last much longer.
I also appreciate the small touches, like the ability to use citrus peels to freshen it up. Overall, it’s made kitchen cleanup a breeze, and I couldn’t be happier with the upgrade.
Pros of InSinkErator Garbage Disposal
- Quiet Performance: The InSinkErator Power .75HP disposal runs quietly compared to other disposals I’ve owned. It’s nice not having to hear that industrial grinding sound while I’m washing dishes or cleaning up after dinner.
- Compact & Space-Saving: Its smaller footprint makes it a good fit under most sinks, which allowed me to keep my other under-sink supplies without feeling cramped.
- Durable Stainless Steel Components: The stainless steel components are a lifesaver for longevity. I had a Badger model that rusted out after 10 years, so this time, I specifically looked for rust-proof options.
- MultiGrind Technology: The two-stage grinding system handles everything from veggie scraps to tougher items like peach pits. No more worrying about what can and can’t go down the drain—I find myself more relaxed when cleaning up.
Cons of InSinkErator Garbage Disposal
- Additional Costs: I wasn’t too thrilled that I had to purchase a separate power cord. For a premium model, I would’ve expected that to be included. It’s a small thing, but it does feel a little inconvenient.
- Heavier Build: The unit itself is quite solid and has some heft to it. It’s great in terms of build quality, but if you’re installing it yourself and aren’t used to lifting moderately heavy items, it’s worth having someone to help.
- Rubber Gasket Not Included: This is not exactly a deal-breaker but, again, it would have been nice if the gasket was included. I had to make a quick run for plumber’s putty.
Maintenance Tips For Long-Lasting Performance
I’m big on maintaining the appliances I invest in, and the InSinkErator is no different. Here are some of the tips I use to keep my garbage disposal in top shape:
- Run Cold Water When Using It: This is critical. Always run a steady stream of cold water before, during, and after grinding food. The cold water helps solidify any grease so that it can be ground up easily without clogging.
- Avoid Fibrous Foods: Things like celery, artichoke leaves, and corn husks can clog up the system. I’ve learned this the hard way—fibers tend to get tangled around the blades, so now I make sure to throw those scraps in the compost instead.
- Use Citrus Peels: Every now and then, I throw in a few lemon or orange peels. Not only does it clean the grind chamber, but it also leaves a pleasant scent behind—definitely a bonus.
- Ice Cubes for Sharpening: Ice cubes can help keep the blades sharp. About once a month, I drop a tray of ice cubes into the disposal while it’s running. It keeps the grinding elements sharp and helps remove any residual gunk.
InSinkErator Vs. Other Brands
If you’re shopping around for a garbage disposal, you’ll probably come across a few other brands like Glacier Bay, Criterion, and Waste King. Here’s how InSinkErator stacks up against these popular competitors:
- InSinkErator Vs. Glacier Bay Garbage Disposal
Glacier Bay offers a budget-friendly option with its GB500 model, which features a 1/2 HP motor and stainless steel grinding components.
While it’s lighter and more compact, it lacks the power of the InSinkErator’s 3/4 HP motor.
Glacier Bay’s 2600 RPM grind speed is decent for basic kitchen scraps, but I found it struggles with tougher items like fruit pits or bones.
Additionally, the Glacier Bay unit doesn’t offer the same noise reduction features as InSinkErator, meaning it’s significantly louder in operation.
InSinkErator’s quieter and more powerful grind system justifies its higher price if you’re looking for reliability and reduced noise.
- InSinkErator Vs. Criterion Garbage Disposal
Criterion garbage disposals are known for their affordability and straightforward installation.
The Criterion model offers similar power (around 1/2 to 3/4 HP), but I found that it lacked the advanced grinding technology of InSinkErator.
While it does the job for most household scraps, it struggles when you throw in fibrous items or denser waste.
The Criterion models tend to be noisier, and their warranty is often shorter compared to InSinkErator’s six-year limited warranty.
If cost is your primary concern, Criterion is a viable option, but if you value a longer warranty and quieter operation, InSinkErator is worth the investment.
- InSinkErator Vs. Waste King Garbage Disposal
Waste King is a solid competitor to InSinkErator, often offering similar features at a slightly lower price point.
Waste King disposals are known for their powerful motors and impressive warranties (sometimes up to ten years).
However, I found Waste King units to be bulkier, and their noise levels were higher compared to InSinkErator’s Power .75HP.
The InSinkErator’s MultiGrind technology offers better grinding efficiency, especially for denser scraps like bones or fibrous vegetables.
Additionally, the space-saving design of InSinkErator makes it a better fit for those who need to maximize under-sink storage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The life expectancy of an InSinkErator garbage disposal is typically 10-15 years. With proper maintenance, including regular cleaning and ensuring you avoid grinding non-recommended items, you can extend its life even further.
Yes, absolutely! InSinkErator models are reliable, durable, and easy to install. Their MultiGrind technology and quieter operation make them a top choice for anyone looking to simplify kitchen cleanup and avoid clog-prone drains.
InSinkErator’s Power .75HP is a great all-around choice for most households. It balances power, noise reduction, and size, making it easy to fit under your sink while offering sufficient power to grind most food scraps without issue.
Most plumbers see garbage disposals as a useful kitchen addition when used properly. They do, however, caution against misuse, like putting grease, fibrous vegetables, or bones down the disposal—all of which can lead to clogging and system damage over time.
Final Thoughts
In my opinion, the InSinkErator garbage disposal is a worthwhile addition to any kitchen, especially if you’re tired of dealing with leftover food scraps. It’s powerful, easy to install, and surprisingly quiet.
By investing in one, you’ll find yourself spending less time worrying about kitchen waste and more time enjoying cooking and entertaining. Ready to make your cleanup routine a breeze?
Give InSinkErator a try—you won’t regret it.