Choosing the Right Horsepower for Your Garbage Disposal

Garbage disposals aren’t one-size-fits-all. Choosing the wrong horsepower (HP) can lead to frequent jams, loud operation, or premature failure. The right motor strength depends on how your kitchen is used.

For light use—such as small households or minimal cooking—a ⅓ to ½ HP disposal may be sufficient. These models handle soft food scraps but struggle with fibrous or heavy waste.

Most households benefit from a ¾ HP disposal, which offers the best balance of power, durability, and noise control. It handles everyday food waste comfortably and lasts longer under regular use.

Large families or frequent cooks should consider 1 HP or higher. These disposals grind efficiently, reduce clogs, and pair well with modern deep sinks. They’re quieter too, thanks to better insulation.

At I Hate My Sink, we always match disposal power to sink design and household needs. When your disposal is properly sized, your entire sink system works better.

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