If you’re considering buying a garbage disposal unit and want it installed, you want to get the best products. However, there are so many different options out there- it can be hard to find something within a set budget.
You'll want to continue reading to learn the answer to "how much does a garbage disposal cost?"
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Factors That Influence the Cost Of Garbage Disposal Units
If you want to know the cost to install a new garbage disposal, you’ll want to consider all of the following factors. The average price of garbage disposal installation changes significantly, depending on the situation and brand.
Feed Type - Continuous Feed Vs Batch Feed
There are two types of feeds; the continuous and batch types. The batch feed is seen as the safer option. It clears through waste and avoids jams. Plus, it’s always covered when grinding, so you don’t have to worry about dropping something in there.
The continuous feed garbage disposals are more expensive and work constantly. The unit runs and allows more waste to be added while it works.
Material Type - Aluminum Vs Stainless Steel
Aluminum is much cheaper than stainless steel but is more susceptible to leaking and rust. They last 10 years, but the stainless steel is more durable, allowing the disposal to last even longer. The steel is also better suited for commercial and frequent use. However, the costs can get up to twice as much as aluminum.
Motor Size
There are five sizes of motor: ⅓ HP, ½ HP, ¾ HP, 1 Hp, and 2 Hp. The more HP, the more household traffic the motor is suited for. However, the stronger motors also cost more. A ⅓ HP can be as low as $75, while a 2 HP tends to cost more, around $300.
Accessories & Other Add-ons
The add-ons you select also have an impact on the price point. Some of these options include the following accessories:
Brands
Like with other products, you pay a different amount depending on the brand that you decide to go with. Name brands are always more expensive than the generic options. However, that doesn’t always mean that they’re better.
You’ll want to research the brands and find something that works good, while having good reviews from the customers who use them. The top brands of garbage disposals include:
Average Garbage Disposal Installation Costs
Garbage Disposal Installation Cost
Plumbers can charge between $45 and $200 per hour. The installation usually doesn’t take much more than an hour or two, but you should still have additional money set aside in case the job takes longer due to a problem.
Garbage Disposal & Kitchen Sink Installation Cost
If you’re installing a new sink at the same time, you’ll need to factor in that cost. The average for a new sink is about $400. After the disposal is added, you’re looking at $700. Plus, you’ll need to make sure that you have enough money set aside for installation.
Garbage Disposal Replacement Cost
A replacement is likely to cost between $50 and $350, depending on the brand and what add-ons you get with the newer model. You'll need to pay the plumber to remove the old model too. A skilled plumber can usually do the job from start to finish in about an hour.
Garbage Disposal Replacement of Rings Cost
The rings your unit comes with can wear out steadily over time. You’ll need to have an extra $15 to $25 to make the replacement. This fix is very cheap and usually easy enough for you to do it on your own.
Garbage Disposal Repair Cost
The cost will depend on the parts that broke. It's very cheap and easy to fix the ring, for example. However, you'd need to pay a lot for an entirely new motor. You'll want to look up the parts that broke to determine your unique circumstance. In many cases, it will end up being cheaper to just replace the unit.
DIY Vs Hiring A Plumber – Costs Compared
When it comes to DIY vs. hiring a plumber, you'll want to make sure that you know the differences in the costs. When it comes to hiring a plumber, you're dealing with paying for the parts, machine, and the work. However, you can save by not hiring out.
You’ll need to make sure you know how to install the unit properly. If it’s not set up correctly, you’ll end up with leaks, which lead to rusting. It’s best to perform DIY if you can. But, you won’t save money if the unit breaks. The most powerful units can be tricky to set up.
DIY Garbage Disposal Installation
Advantages
Disadvantages
Professional Garbage Disposal Installation
Advantages
Disadvantages
People Also Ask (FAQs)
How long does it take to install a garbage disposal?
It’s going to take you longer than a pro to install the unit. It usually takes a quality pro between one and two hours, depending on your sink.
Can you install a garbage disposal in any sink?
You can in a majority of them. The disposal needs to go in a single sink or in half of a double-sided sink. The side you install it in depends on where the strainer is. You want the disposal on the opposite side. Deep sinks and garbage disposals can cause more of a problem
How much does Home Depot charge to install a garbage disposal?
You can expect Home Depot to charge about $120 for an install. This is for their time and effort- not the price of the machine.
How much does Lowes charge to install a garbage disposal?
Lowe’s is a bit cheaper. They charge about $105 for a disposal install. They are more affordable than Home Depot and offer the same service.
Conclusion
In general, you can expect to spend a few hundred dollars on a garbage disposal and its installation. To save money, we recommend checking out our guides on how to correctly install a garbage disposal.
Josh enjoys researching, testing and diving into home improvement & DIY products. He has a passion for tools, learning new skills and fixing the everyday problems that arise around the house.