The cost to replace a garbage disposal is about $550 on average, but the price can range from around $200 to $625, according to home services website Angi.
Your total cost will include the price of the garbage disposal and labor for installation. You can save on labor costs by DIYing, but mistakes can cost more down the road.
Factors that affect the cost of garbage disposal installation include:
- Size of the disposal.
- Material.
- Feed type.
- Complexity of the job.
- Who does the work.
When it makes sense to replace a garbage disposal yourself
If you’re confident in your plumbing and electrical skills, you could save on labor by installing a garbage disposal yourself. Many disposals are designed for installation under standard sinks, which could make this job more DIY friendly.
If your new unit is similar in size and style to the old one, the installation may be quick and simple. Try to match the old unit's horsepower and mount type for the easiest installation.
When you might consider hiring a professional
DIY might save on labor costs upfront, but a mistake that causes a leaking pipe or faulty wiring could lead to more expensive repairs down the road.
More complex installations are better handled by a professional, especially if you aren’t familiar with this type of work. The cost of hiring a professional is likely worth the time you will save and peace of mind.
Consider hiring a professional if:
- Plumbing adjustments are necessary.
- Electrical upgrades, such as installing a new outlet, are required.
- The previous unit is difficult to remove or has caused damage that needs repair.
What it costs: For a standard garbage disposal installation, which can take as little as an hour, expect labor costs of around $50 to $100 per hour. This typically includes removing and hauling away the old unit. More complex installations with electrical work can increase labor costs by $100 or more.
Some areas also may require permits for electrical or plumbing work, which can add fees of $50 to $500 or more.
Ways to save:
- Get multiple quotes. Local plumbers and tradespeople may offer different rates for the same work.
- Buy the unit yourself. Instead of relying on a plumber to select a garbage disposal, shop around. Home improvement stores do have sales on garbage disposals. You may get a better deal and more selection if you purchase it yourself.
- Check for bundled services. Home improvement stores often offer installation (at an additional cost) when you buy a garbage disposal from them. Installation is usually a flat rate for standard installs, so you know ahead of time what you will be paying. For example, according to Home Depot, the average cost for installation is $189, with a range of $97 to $339.
- Combine projects. If you’re facing other plumbing upgrades or bundling home improvement tasks, consider getting quotes that include the other projects you’re considering. You may also want to explore financing options to manage costs efficiently.
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Garbage disposal cost by unit size
Disposals come in different sizes and motor powers. Garbage disposals intended for residential use range from 1/3 horsepower (HP) to 1 HP or more. Larger, more powerful units cost more, but they can handle more waste, are often quieter and are less likely to jam.
| Horsepower rating | Average cost |
|---|---|
| 1/3 HP
| $65 to $210. |
| 1/2 HP
| $85 to $270. |
| 5/8 to 3/4 HP
| $100 to $425. |
| 1 to 1¼ HP
| $150 to $515. |
Garbage disposal features that may increase cost
- Materials. Many disposals are made of aluminum, which costs less but is more likely to corrode over time. Stainless steel models are more durable and last longer, but they cost much more, usually $400 to $1,100.
- Feed type. Your options are batch feed or continuous feed. Continuous feed, which is more common, remains active and demolishes food scraps as they’re fed down the drain. Batch feed only grinds waste when a drain cover is in place, making it safer. Of the two, batch feed disposals are more expensive.
- Noise reduction. Some disposals have design elements to reduce excess vibration and noise. These particular models can come with a higher price tag.
- Auto-reverse. An auto-reverse feature on some models automatically reverses the grinding components to loosen food and prevent jams. These models tend to cost more.
- Grind stages. Basic models only have one grind stage, but higher-end models can have as many as three separate stages. They can handle hard food like bones or corn cobs.
- Power cord. Some disposals don’t come with a power cord. If you have to buy one separately, plan for about $15.
- Protection plans. Less expensive garbage disposals may come with a one- to three-year limited manufacturer’s warranty. More expensive models can have warranties up to 10 years. Retailers may try to sell you an additional protection plan. We think this probably isn’t necessary for a product with an average lifespan of a decade.
Signs you need to replace your garbage disposal
When your garbage disposal stops working, it can be a major headache. In that instance, you know it’s time for a replacement. But even before a disposal quits, these may be signs that you need to replace it:
- Frequent clogging or jamming.
- Persistent odors that don't go away with cleaning.
- Leaks beneath the sink or around the unit.
- Unusual or loud noises.
- Persistent slow draining.
- Inconsistent operation or frequent need to use a reset button.
When properly maintained, garbage disposals last about 10 years. For an older unit, replacement is often more cost-effective than ongoing repairs.
What Reddit users say about replacing a garbage disposal
Reddit is an online forum where users share their thoughts in “threads” on various topics. The popular site includes plenty of discussion on financial subjects like home improvement, so we sifted through Reddit forums to get a pulse check on how users feel about whether replacing a garbage disposal is worth it. People post anonymously, so we cannot confirm their individual experiences or circumstances.
Reddit users who have replaced a garbage disposal say it’s not particularly difficult as a DIY project. They mention that the disposals are heavy, though, with one user suggesting using a car jack and another saying it pays to have a friend help with the job.
Reddit users disagree about whether replacing a garbage disposal is worth it. For example, one user was pleased and noted the new disposal should last for 10 years, and another said he’s getting great use out of his, using it five to 10 times daily. Others, however, expressed environmental concerns about garbage disposals and discouraged putting any waste into the plumbing system.
Frequently asked questions
Is it worth repairing a garbage disposal instead of replacing it?
If your garbage disposal is relatively new and the issue is minor — such as a clog, jam or loose connection — a repair could make sense. However, for units nearing the end of their average 10-year lifespan, or those with more serious mechanical or electrical failures, replacement is often the more cost-effective and reliable option.
How long does it take to replace a garbage disposal?
A professional may be able to replace a standard garbage disposal in about an hour, assuming no complications. DIY installations may take longer — especially for those unfamiliar with plumbing or electrical work. Complex setups involving new wiring, outlet installation or plumbing adjustments can take several more hours.
What tools do I need for a DIY garbage disposal replacement?
To do this job, you’ll need:
- Hammer.
- Phillips screwdriver.
- Flathead screwdriver.
- Putty knife.
- 1-quart bucket.
- Safety glasses.
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