Moen Garbage Disposals Reviews

This 1/2 HP continuous feed model has many of the same features as the above 3/4 HP model, but with just a tad less power. If you are looking for a unit to serve the needs of a one- to a two-person household or if money is especially tight, this may be the unit for you.

It includes a power cord, removable splash guard, and Soundshield technology. So it is easy to install, easy to keep clean, and will not be as noisy as some units on the market.

It is a continuous feed model, not a batch feed model. This is the most familiar type of disposal on the market, which means you probably don’t need to learn anything new to make it fit into your life.

At 2,600 RPM speed, it’s just slightly slower than the 3/4 HP model above. Yet it still offers similar performance in terms of not jamming very often.

Although it has less power, it’s actually slightly larger than the above unit. Depending on your needs, you may see this as a point in its favor or you may see it as a strike against it. If you are downsizing and space is especially tight, check the measurements to make sure it meets your needs.

Recommended for the smaller household that still wants the same great performance of a sound-proofed, high-speed unit that promises to not jam often.

Buyer’s Guide

All of the above units are continuous feed models, not batch feed models. They have many other similarities, so you probably want to focus on the details that set them apart, such as horsepower.

Horsepower

Disposals intended for residential use typically come with motors rated at 1/3, 1/2, 3/4, or 1 Horsepower. Sometimes you can find even more powerful ones. However, they are typically intended for commercial use but may appeal to some people with especially large families or who entertain a lot.

1/3 HP models

Although these have very little power, they are surprisingly popular. One potential selling point is the economy: They tend to be inexpensive.

But another is that there are more single people and childless couples these days. Many people simply don’t need more power.

Such small units typically are basic units without any extras. If you have a one to two-person household, you don’t do a lot of heavy-duty cooking from scratch, and you don’t entertain much, then you probably don’t really need anything more.

1/2 HP models

A one-to-two-person household that cooks a lot frequently has guests over or is planning to expand to the family soon may want to move up to a 1/2 HP model. It will be able to handle a bit more of a workload and is more likely to have extra features.

3/4 HP models

A household with three to six people probably needs at least a 3/4 HP model to handle the load. These larger models usually have extra features, such as multi-stage grinding, anti-jam technology, or noise-reducing insulation.

They tend to cost a bit more, but a garbage disposal typically lasts around eight to fifteen years. Unlike plug-and-play countertop appliances, you can’t very readily just change your mind, casually upgrade on a whim and drop the old one off at Goodwill.

The fact that they get permanently installed means this is a commitment. You want to make sure you don’t regret going too cheap.

1 HP models

If you are a serious cook with a large family (at least five people), you may want to get a 1 HP unit. They will handle a heavier workload and typically come standard with anti-jamming technology and other perks.

If You Are An Environmentalist

It’s been said that humans invented garbage. Nature doesn’t really have useless things. In the natural world, one creature’s trash is another’s treasure.

But with an increasingly crowded world, the reality is that people are going to congregate together in towns and cities. This creates a real need for handling waste efficiently, effectively, and hygienically.

Some studies suggest that a disposal is a better answer to residential food waste than sending it to the local landfill. It helps reduce the incidence of insects and other pests and also helps the resources involved get back into the ecosystem faster.

However, if you are a very devoted environmentalist living off-grid with a septic system, this may not be the answer for you. Septic systems are not designed to handle food waste. It may be better to try your hand at composting.

Galvanized versus Stainless Steel

Steel is generally hard-wearing. Both galvanized and stainless steel hold up well to wet conditions.

However, stainless steel does a bit better in the face of saltwater. If you deal with a lot of salty water or live near the ocean, you might want to shoot for stainless steel.

Our Best Choice

Our favorite is number 1. Moen GXS75C GX Series 3/4 Horsepower Garbage Disposal. It hits the sweet spot for having just enough amenities at a nice price point. Yes, you can pay more if you really want a longer warranty or a few other perks, but this one is low noise, compact, and perfectly serviceable.