Types of Kitchen Disposals

Continuous Feed

• Continuous feed disposals are the most common type and the easiest to use. You simply put waste in the disposal and flip the switch. You can continue to feed waste into the disposal as it runs. While these disposals have a rubber anti-splash baffle to help prevent particles from flying out of the disposal, there is a risk of scraps flying out of the disposal. Also, the opening of the disposal creates a risk that children could put their hands into the disposal. While you could install the disposal yourself, you usually need an electrician to hard-wire and mount the power switch.

Batch Feed

• With a batch feed disposal, you put the waste in and then use a twist-handle mounted on a lid to cover and close the disposal, activating the disposal blades. The lid keeps food in and fingers out of the disposal but does let water pass into the disposal. Batch feed disposals are safer. You cannot feed more waste into the disposal as it runs but have to remove the lid, stopping the disposal, to put in more waste. These disposals usually cost more.

Disposal Tips

• Run cold water while using the disposal, as well as immediately before and after use. Do not run hot water while using the disposal. Before using the disposal, remove silverware and other items from sink. Do not let food sit in a disposal because acid from the food will cause corrosion. Do not put steak bones or other hard food items, fats and grease, or fibrous materials, such as celery or corn husks, into the disposal. However, you can grind small bones in the disposal to create a scouring action that cleans the inside chamber.

Disposal Features

• Some disposals have an auto-reverse mode to help clear jammed waste. Look for a horsepower rating of 3/4 to one-horsepower to reduce the risk of food clogs in the disposal. Most of these models weigh between about 16 and 30 pounds, so you may need two people to install it.