About Garbage Disposals

History of

• The first garbage disposal hit the market in 1938. It was manufactured by InSinkErator and developed by John W. Hammes of Wisconsin. Cities in the United States had to rework their entire sewage systems in order to integrate the disposal. Many cities refused, but those willing to implement garbage disposals have benefited greatly from its efficiency. New York City declared all garbage disposals illegal, in fear of overloading its sewer system. NYC residents were not allowed to install disposals until 1997, when the law was removed.

Function

• Garbage disposals of the 21st century have remained relatively consistent with the original design. Today's garbage disposals are more powerful than those of earlier decades, using powerful, high-torque electric motors. Garbage disposals are normally installed under the kitchen sink in homes. Garbage, such as food waste, is thrown down the drain where the disposal is located. A person then must flip a switch or push a button typically located on the wall near the sink. The electrical switch triggers the motors in the disposal to begin spinning the shredder.

Type

• Standard disposals run at about 200 to 750 watts. The motors rotate a turntable that is encircled by a shredder ring. The force of spinning lugs pushes the waste through the shredder ring. High-end disposals use a centrifugal starting switch that alternates its rotating direction. This helps to prevent clogging. Some garbage disposals use water pressure instead of electricity. These use an oscillating piston and a group of sharp blades.

Features

• Most garbage disposals feature parts that are resistant to corrosion. Quality disposals use stainless steel. Standard household motors can handle a good amount of waste and feature sound-proofing for noise reduction. Those interested in higher levels of power can use induction and commutation motors. Users should run cold water while the disposal is on, to prevent clogging and blade damage.

Misconceptions

• Garbage disposals are common in the United States but are prohibited in many parts of the European Union. Regions of the world like Australia, Africa and parts of Asia do not use garbage disposals due to underdeveloped (or nonexistent) sewage and waste systems. Kitchen waste can often overload sewage treatment plants, hence the ban of disposers in many cities. Without sophisticated and properly managed waste systems, the extra waste can cause water pollution. These waste systems can sometimes interfere with septic systems and can cause waste overflow.