Are you considering whether or not to replace a garbage disposal that stop working, or questioning whether it is worth it to install one during a kitchen remodel in Portland, OR?
While they have become a standard appliance in almost every kitchen because of the convenience they bring, it might not be the best thing to do for the environment, the plumbing system, and your wallet long-term.
Here are 5 things you should consider before buying a garbage disposal:
1. Need and Convenience
No doubt, garbage disposals bring convenience to the kitchen and take away that one unpleasant step of cleaning food waste from doing dishes. It makes life easier and that’s why it has become so popular and common.
2. Cost of Installation
Food disposal is one of the cheapest appliances in a kitchen. The cost of a new unit ranges from $50-$300, depending on the horsepower, noise level, construction materials, and brands. The labor cost of installation typically ranges from $150-$400, depending on whether wiring and plumbing modifications are required.
The upfront cost of installing a garbage disposal is generally not high, however, the long-term maintenance costs may surprise you.
3. Long-term Maintenance Costs
Garbage disposals tend to have a relatively short service life compared to other appliances, averaging about 8-10 year, due to the amount of beating they take processing food wastes. As a result, you may need to replace it more frequently than other kitchen appliances.
Also, disposals send solid, pre-decomposed, food wastes down the drain. Over time, food debris can clog plumbing system, which could result in expensive plumbing repairs.
4. Rental Or Your Own Home?
As a former property manager, I know that garbage disposal is one of the most frequently repaired appliances in a rental property. It takes a lot of abuse and soon becomes a liability to the property owner. If you are a landlord or Airbnb host, I definitely recommend getting rid of garbage disposals in your rental houses.
If it is for your own home, you have more control over the usage. By composting most of the food scraps, you can be assured that your disposal will last a long time while enjoying the convenience it offers.
5. Impact on Environment and Public Sewer Systems
Modern water treatment process has become more and more effective and efficient in converting food waste into renewable energy and fertilizer. In Portland, Oregon, most wastewater flows to Columbia Boulevard Wastewater Treatment Plant in North Portland, undergoes a transformation process to produce biogas (biofuel) and biosolids (fertilizer).
This may sound like sending food waste down the drain has little to no environmental impact, however, curbside composting is still the most efficient and least water-consuming method of nutrient recovery, and the preferred way of food waste disposal, according to the City of Portland.
The Handyman’s Take
You probably have figured out by now that my personal and professional opinion is that the cons of installing a garbage disposal outweigh the pros. You might ask, what is the alternative then? I have a solution for you that is better than the traditional standard strainer that is annoying to use.
Basket Strainer: Best Alternative To Garbage Disposal
At EC Handyman Solutions, I like to recommend installing a basket strainer instead. It has the following benefits:
- A deeper basket than a standard strainer to collect food wastes so you don’t have to be constantly emptying the basket while doing dishes
- Unlike a garbage disposal, it will never break so you don’t have to worry about maintenance.
- It doesn’t send food wastes down the drain, so you can have peace of mind that your plumbing system is protected.
Ready to Install Garbage Disposal or Basket Strainer?
Whether you decide to install or replace the garbage disposal for the convenience, or to convert it back to the more eco-friendly strainer, EC Handyman Solutions is here to help to make your kitchen a better space that fits your lifestyle.
Call or text (503) 549-1070 or fill out a request form for an online estimate today!
PRO Tip—“FOG” Clogs, Grease Trap Saves Pipes
Neither garbage disposals nor strainers can filter fats, oil, and grease (FOG), which is the #1 enemy of the sewer system. By simply collecting FOG in a glass container and dispose of it in the trash, you can help the environment and have the peace of mind that your home’s drain pipes are protected. Start using a grease trap today!