Garbage disposals have become a necessity in every modern kitchen, especially for those who want to make their cooking and cleaning experience a little bit easier. Insinkerator is one of the most popular and trusted brands in the garbage disposal industry, known for its high-quality and reliable products. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about Insinkerator garbage disposals, from their features and benefits to how to install and maintain them.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What is Insinkerator?
- Types of Insinkerator Garbage Disposals
- Continuous Feed Garbage Disposals
- Batch Feed Garbage Disposals
- Features and Benefits of Insinkerator Garbage Disposals
- SoundSeal Technology
- MultiGrind Technology
- QuickLock Mounting System
- Dura-Drive Induction Motor
- Jam-Sensor Circuit Technology
- Stainless Steel Components
- Anti-Microbial Baffle
- Bio-Charge Injection Technology
- How to Choose the Right Insinkerator Garbage Disposal for Your Home
- How to Install an Insinkerator Garbage Disposal
- Tools Needed
- Step-by-Step Guide
- How to Maintain an Insinkerator Garbage Disposal
- Dos and Don’ts
- Cleaning and Deodorising Tips
- Troubleshooting Common Issues
- FAQs
- Conclusion
What is Insinkerator?
Insinkerator is a brand of garbage disposals that was first introduced in 1927. Since then, it has become a leading brand in the industry, offering a wide range of products that cater to the different needs and preferences of homeowners. Insinkerator garbage disposals are known for their high-quality and durable construction, powerful motors and innovative features that make them easy to use and maintain.
Types of Insinkerator Garbage Disposals
Insinkerator offers two types of garbage disposals: continuous feed and batch feed.
Continuous Feed Garbage Disposals
Continuous feed garbage disposals are the most common type of garbage disposals. They are designed to be turned on and off with a switch or a wall-mounted air switch. These disposals can continue to run while food waste is being added to them, making them ideal for large households or those who cook frequently.
Batch Feed Garbage Disposals
Batch feed garbage disposals, on the other hand, are designed to be loaded with food waste before being turned on. These disposals have a stopper that needs to be inserted into the sink opening to activate them. Batch feed garbage disposals are considered to be safer than continuous feed disposals, as they prevent accidental activation and reduce the risk of injury.
Features and Benefits of Insinkerator Garbage Disposals
Insinkerator garbage disposals come with a range of features and benefits that make them stand out from other brands. Here are some of the most notable ones:
SoundSeal Technology
Insinkerator garbage disposals come equipped with SoundSeal technology, which helps to reduce noise levels while the disposal is in use. This feature makes Insinkerator disposals much quieter than other brands, making them ideal for homes with open floor plans or for those who prefer a quieter environment.
MultiGrind Technology
Insinkerator garbage disposals also feature MultiGrind technology, which allows them to grind food waste into smaller particles, making it easier to dispose of. This technology also helps to prevent clogs and jams, ensuring that the disposal runs smoothly and efficiently.
QuickLock Mounting System
Insinkerator garbage disposals feature the QuickLock mounting system, which makes installation quick and easy. This system allows the disposal to be easily mounted to the sink, without the need for any special tools or equipment. The QuickLock mounting system also ensures that the disposal is securely attached to the sink, preventing it from moving or vibrating during use.
Dura-Drive Induction Motor
Insinkerator garbage disposals come equipped with a Dura-Drive induction motor, which provides powerful and reliable performance. This motor is designed to last longer than other types of motors, making Insinkerator disposals a great investment for homeowners.
Jam-Sensor Circuit Technology
Insinkerator garbage disposals also feature Jam-Sensor Circuit technology, which helps to prevent jams and clogs. This technology detects when a jam has occurred and automatically adjusts the motor’s torque to clear the jam, ensuring that the disposal runs smoothly and efficiently.
Stainless Steel Components
Insinkerator garbage disposals are made with high-quality stainless steel components, making them durable and long-lasting. Stainless steel is also resistant to corrosion and rust, ensuring that the disposal stays looking and functioning like new for many years.
Anti-Microbial Baffle
Insinkerator garbage disposals come with an anti-microbial baffle, which helps to prevent the growth of bacteria and other harmful microorganisms. This baffle also helps to reduce odours and keep the disposal clean and fresh.
Bio-Charge Injection Technology
Insinkerator garbage disposals also feature Bio-Charge Injection technology, which helps to break down food waste more quickly and efficiently. This technology injects a special enzyme solution into the disposal, which helps to break down food waste and reduce the likelihood of clogs and jams.
How to Choose the Right Insinkerator Garbage Disposal for Your Home
When choosing an Insinkerator garbage disposal for your home, there are a few factors to consider, such as the size of your household, the amount of food waste you generate and your budget. Here are some tips to help you choose the right Insinkerator garbage disposal for your needs:
- Consider the horsepower: Insinkerator garbage disposals come in a range of horsepower options, from1/2 HP 1/3 HP to 1 HP. The more horsepower the disposal has, the more powerful it will be and the easier it will be able to handle tough food waste.
- Think about the noise level: If you have an open floor plan or prefer a quieter environment, look for an Insinkerator disposal with SoundSeal technology.
- Consider the type: Decide whether you want a continuous feed or batch feed garbage disposal, based on your personal preferences and needs.
- Check the size: Make sure to choose an Insinkerator garbage disposal that fits your sink opening and cabinet space.
- Look for extra features: Consider the additional features that come with the disposal, such as MultiGrind technology, QuickLock mounting system and Jam-Sensor Circuit technology.
How to Install an Insinkerator Garbage Disposal
Installing an Insinkerator garbage disposal is a relatively simple process that can be done in just a few steps. Here’s what you’ll need and how to do it:
Tools Needed
- Insinkerator garbage disposal
- Mounting assembly
- Mounting flange
- Plumbers putty
- Screwdriver
- Plumber’s wrench
- Wire connectors
- Electrical tape
Step-by-Step Guide
- Turn off the power: Turn off the power to your kitchen by turning off the circuit breaker that controls the electrical outlet where you’ll be plugging in the disposal.
- Remove the old disposal: If you have an old disposal, remove it by detaching the mounting assembly and disconnecting the electrical wiring. Remove any remaining mounting hardware and dispose of the old disposal.
- Install the mounting assembly: Place the mounting assembly onto the sink opening and secure it in place using plumber’s putty. Insert the mounting flange into the assembly and tighten it with a screwdriver.
- Attach the disposal unit: Attach the disposal unit to the mounting assembly using the QuickLock mounting system. Secure the disposal with the mounting screws and tighten them with a plumber’s wrench.
- Connect the electrical wiring: Connect the electrical wiring from the disposal to the electrical outlet, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Use wire connectors and electrical tape to secure the connections.
- Test the disposal: Turn the power back on and test the disposal to ensure that it is running smoothly and efficiently. Run water and food waste through the disposal to check for any leaks or clogs.
How to Maintain an Insinkerator Garbage Disposal
Proper maintenance is key to ensuring that your Insinkerator garbage disposal lasts for many years. Here are some tips on how to maintain your disposal:
Do’s and Don’ts
- Do run water before and after using the disposal to flush out any remaining food waste.
- Do use cold water when running the disposal, as hot water can cause grease and fat to melt and clog the disposal.
- Do use small amounts of food waste at a time and avoid disposing of hard or fibrous materials.
- Don’t put non-food items or chemicals down the disposal, as these can damage the disposal or cause it to malfunction.
Cleaning and Deodorising Tips
- Clean the disposal regularly using a mixture of ice cubes and rock salt. This will help to remove any buildup and keep the disposal clean and fresh.
- Deodorise the disposal by grinding up citrus peels or baking soda and vinegar. This will help to eliminate any unpleasant odours.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- If the disposal is jammed, turn off the power and use a wrench to rotate the blades back and forth to clear the jam.
- If the disposal is leaking, check the connections and tighten any loose hardware. If the leak persists, it may be time to replace the disposal.
FAQs
- How long do Insinkerator garbage disposals last?
- Insinkerator garbage disposals are built to last for many years, with an average lifespan of 10-15 years or more.
- Can Insinkerator garbage disposals grind bones?
- Insinkerator garbage disposals are capable of grinding small bones, such as chicken bones, but should not be used to grind larger or harder bones.
- Can I install an Insinkerator garbage disposal myself?
- While it is possible to install an Insinkerator garbage disposal yourself, it is recommended to hire a professional plumber to ensure proper installation and safety.
- What should I do if my Insinkerator garbage disposal is not working?
- If your Insinkerator garbage disposal is not working, check to make sure that it is plugged in and that the circuit breaker has not tripped. If the problem persists, contact a professional plumber for assistance.
- Are Insinkerator garbage disposals environmentally friendly?
- Insinkerator garbage disposals are a more environmentally friendly option than sending food waste to the landfill, as they help to reduce the amount of waste and methane gas produced by landfills.