What Is A Batch Feed Garbage Disposal? (Find Out Now!)
You might assume that shopping for a garbage disposal is a quick, in-and-out kind of job. However, what you might not realize is that there are dozens, if not hundreds, of options for you to choose from. You’ll generally find models grouped into two categories – batch feed and continuous feed.
A batch feed garbage disposal is one that will allow you to insert food waste all at once, up to five cups at a time, before shutting it off. This is an alternative to a continuous feed garbage disposal, which requires you to throw small amounts of food down the disposal while it is still running.
Both types of garbage disposals can be invaluable tools for the homeowner. However, if you’re considering a batch feed garbage disposal, you will want to consider this helpful guide.
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How Do Batch Feed Garbage Disposals Work?
Although they might sound rather complex, a batch feed disposal works in a relatively straightforward way.
Instead of feeding food down the disposal as it continues to run, which is what you will do with a continuous feed garbage disposal, you will instead throw three to five cups of food waste down the disposal at once. Then, you’ll put a cover on the opening, turn on your faucet and either push down or twist the cover (also referred to as a key) to power on the grinder.
Unlike a continuous feed disposal, there’s no wall switch necessary. There is no extra electrical work to worry about and these units are relatively simple to operate.
What are the Benefits of Batch Feed Garbage Disposals?
Here are some of the key benefits of purchasing and using a batch feed garbage disposal in your kitchen.
They’re Safer
Batch feeds are safer for several reasons. First, they can only operate with a stopper in place. Nothing can get inside while the disposal is running so you don’t have to worry about anybody (especially children) injuring their hands.
Also, food debris can’t come flying out. There’s zero chance for utensils and other non-food items to get inside the disposal, either.
Easy to Install
Batch feed garbage disposals are easy to install because you don’t have to worry about extra electrical work. You can quickly and easily install this kind of unit yourself without having to hire an electrician. Although these types of garbage disposals cost more money upfront, you’ll find a significant cost savings in not having to outsource that work to a professional.
Quiet Operation
A batch feed disposal comes with a cover. This is not only the primary safety feature of the appliance but also cuts down on a lot of the noise.
They Work Well for Kitchen Islands
Many of us don’t have the option of installing a garbage disposal on the kitchen counter – either because that’s not where our sink is located or because we just don’t want to drill through our egregious kitchen countertops.
However, if you have a batch feed disposal, you can install it on the island. No need to take up more of your precious (and likely limited) countertop real estate!
Excellent Performance
Overall, batch feed disposals are highly rated. While you’ll find plenty of continuous feed disposals that offer this level of performance, too, batch feeds tend to be more well-regarded inc consumer tests and surveys
What Are the Disadvantages of Batch Feed Garbage Disposals?
It’s not all sunshine and roses when it comes to these types of garbage disposals, either. Here are a few drawbacks.
Price Tag
Batch feed garbage disposals tend to have a higher horsepower (usually more than ¾ HP) so they are generally more expensive than other types of disposals. Even when you compare models of the identical horsepower, batch feeds tend to be pricier because there are extra components in the stopper.
Time Consuming and Inconvenient
If you have lots of food to grind up, processing it in batches can be cumbersome. Socially, a batch feed disposal requires more parts to run. Because of this, if you happen to lose or damage the cover, you’re out of luck.
More Likely to Clog
Batch feed garbage disposals require you to process lots of food all at once. You need to be careful not to overload it or it can clog.
Takes Up More Space
Finally, although there’s an added element of convenience in that batch feed garbage disposals can be installed anywhere, they do take up more space. They have longer necks to accommodate the hopper so you’ll need extra clearance in your kitchen.
Related Questions
What is the best horsepower for a garbage disposal?
The ideal horsepower for a garbage disposal depends on several factors. A 1⁄3 horsepower disposal is the most economical but is more likely to clog when grinding up hard foods like carrots. A 1.0 to 1.2 horsepower is the largest you will likely find, and it makes quick work of grinding up even the toughest material, but will also be more expensive.
How do you use a batch feed garbage disposal?
Make sure the garbage disposal is connected to power. Retrieve the key for your unit (the cover) and place it above the drain. When pressed into the disposal, it will turn on the blades that grind up the food.
Feed food through the disposal a bit at a time, pressing it until you hear the blades stop chewing. Once you hear the pause, you can add more food.
How do I know which garbage disposal to buy?
Before you buy any kind of garbage disposal, consider a few factors. Check local building codes to find out which types of garbage disposals are permitted (some codes have restrictions in place).
You’ll also want to consider the water use of a garbage disposal, since most models use up to three gallons of water per minute of use. Some are considered more eco-friendly and consume less water, making them ideal for homeowners for whom this is a concern.
Other factors to consider include your family size, since this determines the ideal power and unit size, and whether you will install the unit yourself or hire a professional.
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Final Thoughts
A batch feed garbage disposal isn’t the right type for everyone. However, for many homeowners, it’s the perfect choice. Consider the pros and cons above to help you make an educated purchase that you’ll feel good about for years to come!
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