It wasn’t too long ago that garbage disposal units were commonplace in Australian home. These days, they’re a little rarer, but some homes continue to use them. As with most things, installing one comes with advantages and disadvantages.

Not every local government allows garbage disposal units to deliver their waste to the wastewater system. Research has shown that the units increase the strain on treatment plants. A better way to get rid of food waste is to dispose of it through solid waste disposal or by composting.

Of course, if you have your own septic tank, then a garbage disposal unit could be a more attractive proposition.

The manufacturers claim that the units are convenient, hygienic and even environmentally friendly. Which helps the governments to achieve their waste reduction targets. However, garbage disposal units can overload sewage systems especially at high rainfall times, and ramp up household water and power use.

Apart from council regulations, you’ll need to carefully research. What else should you look into before installing a garbage disposal unit?

5 Things You Should Know Before Choosing a Garbage Disposal Unit

1. Plumbing

Not every plumbing, fixture or sewage system will actually accommodate these in-sink units. You’ll also need to power the unit, so make sure there is a local outlet or explore your options to hard-wire it.

2. Materials

It’s well known that units with stainless steel blades are the most effective at grinding and will also last longer.  So if you’re looking to reduce the up-front cost of the system, don’t cut corners with the blades.

3. The Noise

Price, materials and council regulations are all important, but don’t forget about the noise. Put simply, the quieter the system, the better it will be for every occupant in the house. The better units come with sound baffles to further lower those annoying decibels, and an anti-splash barrier will keep your sink clean and hygienic.

4. Power

You can pick up garbage disposal units pretty cheaply, but are they powerful enough? At the lower end of the market you can find attractive prices. The more powerful units, like a one horsepower unit; will perform reliably and grind up anything, including bones that won’t get stuck in the pipes.

5. Switches

Manufacturers design garbage disposal units to be easy to install and connect. It’s important to note that continuous feed units require a power switch that you should ensure is fully safe and located away from any water that might splash on it. Batch-feed units, on the other hand, don’t have a power switch because they only operate when you manipulate the drain plug.

Many people swear by their trusty garbage disposal unit, it is still important to look into all the pros and cons before getting one installed. Ruttley Services Services Sydney know all about how to keep your sink, sewer and drains operating smoothly, so get in touch to find out more today.