When it comes to garbage disposals, you might think that all of them are pretty much the same. After all, they all essentially do the same thing, right?
Well, not exactly. There are a few different factors that you need to take into account when choosing a garbage disposal.
Don’t worry, we’re here to help. Below, we’ll explain everything you need to know about amps and garbage disposals, including how to choose the right one for your home.
So read on, and learn how many amps does a garbage disposal use
Introduction to garbage disposals
Garbage disposals are a convenient way to get rid of food waste without having to worry about throwing them away in the trash or taking them outside to the compost bin.
But before you can start using your garbage disposal, you need to know about garbage disposal installation.
Usually, most disposals are installed under the kitchen sink. How many amps does a garbage disposal use?
How many amps does a garbage disposal draw?
Some people cannot handle food waste without garbage disposal devices. Why do garbage disposals use so many amps?
Most garbage disposals are between 10 and 20 amps, and the average garbage disposal is 15 amps. Several can be as small as five amps.
For a quick and accurate test, you can keep the garbage running constantly using the clamp meter.
A second option that can be used is to read the product specifications sheet online or in the manufacturer’s instructions (user manual) for each product.
Types of garbage disposals
There are three different types of garbage disposals on the market: continuous feed, batch feed, and septic assist.
Continuous feed disposals allow you to put waste into the disposer while it’s running, making for a quick and easy cleanup.
Batch feed disposals require you to put food waste into the disposer one piece at a time, which is helpful if you have a sensitive septic system.
Septic assist disposals are designed for homes with septic systems—they divert solid waste away from the septic tank to help keep it functioning properly.
Dedicated circuit breaker requirements for garbage disposal
To avoid overloading, it’s recommended to use a dedicated circuit breaker for the garbage disposal and to check with your breaker box. I hope your breaker box isn’t full load already.
The size of the wire for the garbage disposal
Other appliances should not be connected to the same circuit (no shared circuit) and it should feature 14- to 16-gage size wire.
If you’re connecting two outlets to the same circuit, then use a 12-gage wire size instead. Proper wiring is crucial.
How much does it cost to change a 15 amp breaker to a 20 amp breaker?
It’s also worth noting that if your circuit breaker is already 15 amps, and you’d like to change it to 20 amps for your garbage disposal, you’ll likely have to call a professional electrician—which can cost up to $200–$300 depending on labor rates in your area.
Does the garbage disposal need a 20 amp switch?
As mentioned above, it’s important that the switch be connected to a 20 amp breaker or higher, as anything lower than this could become overloaded if too many high-powered appliances are connected at once.
Plus, having a 20 amp switch allows your unit more flexibility when grinding harder items such as bones.
Should garbage disposals have GFCIs?
You can either install a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters) outlet or use a GFCI extension cord, which will plug into the existing outlet and provide protection against electrical malfunctions.
Installing the GFCI is recommended since it provides greater protection, but if you’re not familiar with electricity and wiring, it may be better to hire a licensed electrician for the job.
Safety and maintenance tips for garbage disposal
Now that you know how much power to expect from your garbage disposal and how to check the current draw in real-time, it’s time to take a look at some safety and maintenance tips.
GFCI installation
First, you should make sure that the power socket being used is rated for the right amps. Also, make sure that any wiring involved is done properly with circuits.
Installing a GFCI can further protect your device from unexpected surges or blackouts.
How long should you leave a garbage disposal on?
Next, avoid running your garbage disposal for too long. Most models can run for a few minutes at a time before resetting, but it’s best to keep an eye on the clock and shut off the unit after each use.
Garbage disposal use
Finally, do not put large food particles at your disposal, as this could cause unnecessary strain on the blades and result in clogging.
With proper care and understanding of “how many amps does a garbage disposal use?”, your waste disposer should continue working well for years to come.
Garbage disposal replacement
If you are considering replacing the old garbage disposal with a new disposal yourself, make sure that you have all of the necessary tools, as well as any wiring instruction manual for your particular model.
In some cases, even if things go wrong during wiring, it could be more cost-effective in the long run to hire an electrician, who will be able to take care of everything safely and efficiently.
Can I use a regular switch for garbage disposal?
You might be thinking to yourself, “Can I use a regular switch for my garbage disposal?”.
The answer is yes, but you need to make sure your switch is powerful enough. It’s always best to check with an electrician or HVAC professional before attempting any wiring work.
Should garbage disposals be hardwired?
The ideal way of connecting is that garbage disposal should always be hardwired, as it is the safest and most reliable connection.
Hardwiring requires a dedicated power circuit routed through your home’s electrical system and connected directly to the garbage disposal.
This allows the disposal to draw its initial power from an electrical outlet and directly into the unit. When hardwired, only one receptacle is needed to run all of the devices connected to it—including your garbage disposal.
This will also help you save money on electricity bills since you’ll be able to monitor how many amps your garbage disposal uses more easily.
Plus, there is no need for an extension cord—which can be a safety hazard in itself.
Are garbage disposals a source of electricity?
The short answer is yes – garbage disposals do use electricity. Now, depending on the brand and model, different garbage disposals can require varying amounts of power to operate.
For instance, if you have a Waste Maid 1/3 Horsepower garbage disposal, that requires 5.3-7.2 amps at 120 volts, while a 3/4 Horsepower garbage disposal requires 8.7-10 amps.
How many amps does a 1/2 horsepower garbage disposal use?
The average amp usage of a 1 Horsepower garbage disposal is around 8.06 whereas that for a 3/4 HP garbage disposal is close to 6.68. 1/2 HP disposals consume 5 amps of electricity, and 1/3 HP disposals are rated at 4.8 amps on average.
Amps ratings are important in assessing power outputs because they determine the amount of power that the disposal can handle. The best disposal is for storing food scrap for a large family. Less efficient disposal may suffice if you live in an apartment without waste.
Why do people need cordless disposal?
People may be drawn to the idea of cordless disposals because they provide an efficient and simple solution that’s easy to install.
Cordless disposals are perfect for those who don’t have access to a dedicated circuit or added electrical wiring in their kitchen.
InSinkErator 3/4 Cordless Horsepower garbage disposal
The InSinkErator 3/4 Cordless Horsepower garbage disposal is an excellent option because you can simply plug it in and power it up by using a standard outlet located near or in the sink.
Plus, you don’t have to worry about cutting into any cabinets or walls for added wiring. All in all, cordless disposals provide an efficient and hassle-free solution that busy homeowners can appreciate.
Conclusion
Generally speaking, most garbage disposals require at least two power sockets and a dedicated circuit. It’s important to make sure your garbage disposal is properly grounded and has a GFCI outlet.
Following these simple electrical requirements will help ensure it runs smoothly. The amount of power it needs will vary depending on the model and make of garbage disposal.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size circuit do I need for garbage disposal?
You must have an accessible outlet that is secured by a 120-volt, 20-amp breaker in order to implement garbage disposal.
How many amps does a garbage disposal need?
Read the energy rating instructions to ensure that your garbage disposal has the right outlet loop on a separate circuit breaker. The typical garbage disposal consumes 15 amps of power.
Does garbage disposal have to be on a dedicated circuit?
No, the code doesn’t really require a separate disposal circuit; nevertheless, it still may not be permitted on the dishwashing circuit.
Can a garbage disposal be plugged into an outlet?
Garbage disposals (also known as food disposers) can be linked to the electrical supply in one of 2 ways. They may be connected directly to their own circuit, or they may be wired with an appliances cord that plugs into a wall outlet, which is typically positioned inside the sink base cabinet. Wonder How to fix a leaky garbage disposal in your home, read