Best Garbage Disposals for Septic Systems

Best Garbage Disposals for Septic Systems

You probably have your own septic tank, especially if you live away from a centralized septic system located in the city. If that’s the case, you must be wondering if you could introduce a septic safe garbage disposal to your septic system. This isn’t an issue for most; you’d have a rather tough time in finding the best disposal for a septic system in a market that’s flooded with options. This guide aims at helping you narrow down your choices and settle for nothing the best pick for your specific needs. 

An under-sink garbage disposal system is a necessity in a common US household, but many believe that having the same installed with a septic tank may cause certain issues. However, this popular opinion has been scrapped, for all the concerns depend on the size of the unit. 

Having garbage disposal for septic tanks allows users to dispose of garbage without making a mess. The unit mulches the garbage into fine particles which are then put in the septic tank. So, if you are looking to install the best garbage disposal for septic systems, this article is for you! 

Comparison of Our Top Picks

1. InSinkErator Evolution Septic Assist Household Garbage Disposal
2. Moen GXS75C Host Series Continuous Feed Garbage Disposal
3. Waste King Legend Series Continuous Feed Garbage Disposal
4. Waste King L-3200 Garbage Disposal with Power Cord
5. General Electric GFC520N Continuous Feed Disposal
Product Title
Product Title
1. InSinkErator Evolution Septic Assist Household Garbage Disposal
2. Moen GXS75C Host Series Continuous Feed Garbage Disposal
3. Waste King Legend Series Continuous Feed Garbage Disposal
4. Waste King L-3200 Garbage Disposal with Power Cord
5. General Electric GFC520N Continuous Feed Disposal
Height
Height
12.5 inches
13.4 inches
16 inches
13.7 inches
12.6 inches
Power
Power
3/4 HP
3/4 HP
1 HP
3/4 HP
1/2 HP
Noise
Noise
Quieter
Standard
Quiet
Standard
Standard
Capacity
Capacity
40 oz.
30.8 oz.
33.5 oz.
33.5 oz.
27 oz.
RPM
RPM
1725
2700
2600
2700
2600
Warranty
Warranty
8 Years
10 Years
20 Years
8 Years
5 Years

Best Garbage Disposals for Septic Tanks

1. InSinkErator Evolution Septic Assist 3/4 HP Household Garbage Disposal

  • Heavy built
  • Quieter than most garbage disposal systems
  • Though placed under the sink. It does not vibrate quite a lot
  • The unit is easy to install
  • Very powerful septic tank
  • The product is quite hefty and takes a lot of space under the sink
  • The septic take bottle leaks blue fluid when touched

Though all your garbage produced at home might be septic-tank friendly, this particular product assists in the quick garbage disposal. Thus reduces the workload to a great extent. This particular garbage disposal system uses a Bio-Change mechanism, which is basically an injection of microorganisms that help in the easy breakdown of the garbage!

Powered with advanced SoundSeal Technology, this disposal unit is super-quiet. If this virtue is your primary requisite; consider picking a septic-friendly disposal from our compilation of the quietest garbage disposals. Additionally, the powerful ¾ hp dura-drive induction mechanism and the 2-stage multi grind technology handle food-scrape with utmost power.

The InSinkErator Evolution Septic Assist is fast, smarter, and cleaner. Not only with the disposal, but the system also helps with the meal preparation and keeps the kitchen clean with its great application. 

This particular product comes with an amazing easy swap installation process. It is very fast and easy to change the garbage disposal with other different tanks, all thanks to the patented Quick Lock mount. The Quick-lock functionality fits very well with the InSinkErator model. Be it a standard or a premium evolution model, these features come with all, and one can operate it by a simple twist on and off. 

Specifications
Septic Friendly Yes
Power CordNot Included
Feed TypeContinuous
Power3/4 HP
Dishwasher CompatibleYes

8.8out of 10

Noise Level9.2
Mounting System9.0
Ease Of Installation8.9
Grindability8.2
Durability8.7
Warranty8.8

2. Moen GXS75C Host Series 3/4 HP Continuous Feed Garbage Disposal

  • Only 12 Inches in height; Ideal for deep farmhouse sinks
  • Convenient installation; no plumbing modifications required if replacing an older InSinkErator disposal with this model
  • Powerful ¾ HP motor; easily caters the food waste disposal needs of average households
  • Fairly Quiet
  • 6 oz chamber capacity; more than sufficient for a busy household
  • 4 year manufacturer’s warranty
  • Stiff rubber lip around the drain; you may sometimes need to manually shove down waste

The Waste King Legend Series 1 HP Continuous Feed Garbage Disposal comes with a 1 HP, 2800 RPM permanent motor that does not produce a lot of noise and does not jam. The EZ mount that is provided with the unit makes way for quick installation under the sink. Additionally, it comes with easily removable splash guards that make way for easy and effective cleaning.

Don’t fret about your electrical expertise to install this garbage disposal system; it comes with pre-installed electrical cords and does not require any additional electrical work for installation. This is common in the L-8000 and 9980.

The best part about the product is that it is quite lightweight, being made out of stainless steel. The disposer can work continuously once mounted. It usually comes with a wall switch, which must be turned on for it to work.

This system can also be used in addition to a septic tank, given that the size of the tank is compatible with this unit. The Waste King disposal system also has a manual reset button that shuts the system down in case there is an overload or if there is a rare jam. The easy-mount that comes with this unit has a twist-and-lock design and makes way for fast and easy installation.

It can also be used to dispose of the sink in the kitchen. Additionally, all the hardware necessary to set up this unit is provided by the company, thereby eliminating the need for the user to buy any additional items. A 32-inch power cord is also included in the set. All the user requires is a screwdriver hammer, adjustable pliers.

Specifications
Septic Friendly Yes
Power CordPre-installed
Feed TypeContinuous
Power3/4 HP
Dishwasher CompatibleYes

9out of 10

Noise Level8.2
Mounting System9.0
Ease Of Installation8.9
Grindability9
Durability10
Warranty9

3. Waste King Legend Series 1 HP Continuous Feed Garbage Disposal

  • Continuous feed
  • Septic tank compatible
  • Permanent magnet in the vortex motor
  • Powerful ¾ HP, 2700 RPM motor
  • 5-year manufacturer’s warranty
  • Galvanized steel grinding components

The Waste King Legend Series 1 HP Continuous Feed Garbage Disposal comes with a 1 HP, 2800 RPM permanent motor that does not produce a lot of noise and does not jam. The EZ mount that is provided with the unit makes way for quick installation under the sink.

Additionally, it comes with easily removable splash guards that make way for easy and effective cleaning. Don’t fret about your electrical expertise to install this garbage disposal system; it comes with pre-installed electrical cords and does not require any additional electrical work for installation.

This is common in the L-8000 and 9980. The best part about the product is that it is quite lightweight, being made out of stainless steel. The disposer can work continuously once mounted. It usually comes with a wall switch, which must be turned on for it to work. 

This system can also be used in addition to a septic tank, given that the size of the tank is compatible with this unit. The Waste King disposal system also has a manual reset button that shuts the system down in case there is an overload or if there is a rare jam. The easy-mount that comes with this unit has a twist-and-lock design and makes way for fast and easy installation.

It can also be used to dispose of the sink in the kitchen. Additionally, all the hardware necessary to set up this unit is provided by the company, thereby eliminating the need for the user to buy any additional items. A 32-inch power cord is also included in the set. All the user requires is a screwdriver hammer, adjustable pliers. 

Specifications
Septic Friendly Yes
Power CordPre-installed
Feed TypeContinuous
Power1 HP
Dishwasher CompatibleYes

9out of 10

Noise Level8.9
Mounting System8.8
Ease Of Installation9
Grindability8.9
Durability9
Warranty9.5

4. Waste King L-3200 Garbage Disposal with Power Cord, 3/4 HP

  • Economical
  • ¾ HP motor; grinds through soft and moderately tough waste
  • 26 oz. chamber capacity; fine for most domestic kitchens
  • Convenient installation
  • 3-year manufacturer’s warranty
  • Galvanized steel grinding components; may not grind through tough food waste

Unlike the other garbage disposal systems sold in the market, the Waste King L-3200 Garbage Disposal with Power Cord, 3/4 HP is quite lightweight and compact. It has a 7-3/4 inches diameter and is 13-3/4 inches long. However, don’t let its lightweight and portable design fool you, for this is a very powerful garbage disposal system.

The unit comes with a /4 HP, 2700 RPM motor, sound insulated and does not jam. The unit is super easy to install and cleaning the same is not a big deal either. The EX Mount of the system makes it easy to install the unit under the sink and is also easy to clean.

The Waste King also features a manual reset button that can be resorted to if there is system overload. Additionally, in case of a rare jam, this button can be pressed. The system is either activated by the wall-mounted switch which makes waste disposal a continuous process or a sink mounted air back switch which works till the system is shut down.

The system features stainless steel grinding components for ensured durability (View more garbage disposals with stainless steel components). The unit comes with all the required electrical cords pre-installed and thus requires no additional electrical work. Made completely from stainless steel, this lightweight, powerful garbage disposal system comes with a staggering 8-year warranty plan. Such extended warranty periods are a signature of waste king disposals. Discover more on their menu in our waste king garbage disposal reviews.

Specifications
Septic Friendly Yes
Power CordPre-installed
Feed TypeContinuous
Power3/4 HP
Dishwasher CompatibleYes

8.7out of 10

Noise Level8.2
Mounting System8.8
Ease Of Installation9
Grindability8.8
Durability8.8
Warranty8.5

5. General Electric GFC520N Continuous Feed Disposal

  • Can be used as a free-standing or wall-mounted air purifier
  • Combines the HEPA filter technology with activated carbon filter for clean and odor free air
  • Effectively eliminates pet dander, pollen, mold and other potential allergens
  • The activated carbon filter takes out VOCs and other unpleasant gases from the air
  • With filters lasting for up to 2 years (12-hour daily usage), your investment turns out economical in the long run
  • 5-year warranty from the manufacturer accounts for all potential malfunctions
  • Expensive

The General Electric GFC520N Continuous Feed Disposal includes a ½ horsepower continuous garbage disposal stainless steel flange, a wall switch, dishwasher draw connector, and a sink stopper. The unit is super easy to install and comes with an adapter kit. The unit is powered by a powerful grinding system which is backed by a 1/2 HP Motor.

The motor hosts maximum speed very quickly so that the food does not jam the turbo. The disposal unit comes with an angled fin pimp that forces the water down in full blast to ensure that the drain remains clean and clog-free.

The unit is super easy to install, and a simple 3-bolt mount adapter kit is included within the set to make the installation process easy. The 2600 RPM makes way for fast, fine, and quick grinding of particles. Additionally, the steel blades are galvanized, which makes the entire chunking process quite

Finally, the unit has been constructed very thoroughly, and thus it provides a two-level precutter along with an on/off wall switch and also comes along with a sink stopper. In addition to having all the features installed to make the disposal process easy ( jam-resistant blades, manual-rest button, splashguard) the unit includes cold-rolled carbon-steel armature shaft elements.

Specifications
Septic Friendly Yes
Power CordNot Included
Feed TypeContinuous
Power3/4 HP
Dishwasher CompatibleYes

8.4out of 10

Noise Level8.2
Mounting System8.4
Ease Of Installation8.7
Grindability8.5
Durability8.5
Warranty8.2


Buying a Septic Safe Garbage Disposal – Guide

What Makes a Garbage Disposal Septic-friendly?

A garbage disposal grinds the food particles into a fine paste for the septic tank. These are fine particles from the first layer at the bottom of the tank. Disposal manufacturers opine that garbage disposals are ideal to be used in septic tanks. However, some people think the opposite. The safety of clubbing these two units depends on the size, age, type, and power of the disposal unit. One might require to level up the size of the septic tank to make way for food waste.

Most garbage disposal units come with varied power ratings which range from ⅓ hp to 1 hp. As a rule of thumb, the efficiency of the unit increases as the power goes up. The size of the septic tank requires special attention. If the disposal unit is not compatible with the tank size, then the result might be quite disastrous. Finally, the type of enzymes selected to help in the decomposition process must also be looked into. As a rule of thumb, anything other than food particles should not be used in a disposal system with a septic tank.

Advantages of Installing a Garbage Disposal with a Septic System

1. Easy to clean

When there is a garbage disposal system installed, it is easy to scrape small amounts of food from under the sink instead of carrying plates to the trash to dispose of them. This pumps up the cleanup process and makes it much easier and smoother. Since the scrape foods are going straight to the septic tank through the disposal unit, making a mess of the kitchen floor can also be avoided.

2. Economical in Long Run

Most garbage disposal systems these days are compatible with septic tanks, and turn out to be a good investment in the long run. Plus, if one is aware of the basic plumbing, the installation process becomes easy, and no additional assistance is required. The system requires low maintenance, and if used correctly, they can run for years without any major breakdown.

3. Pipe Protection

A garbage disposal system does not allow food particles to build up and clog the pipes in the long run. A garbage disposal system grinds the food particles and feeds it directly to the septic tank, thereby protecting the pipes.


Factors to Consider while Buying the Best Garbage Disposal for Septic Tanks

1. Size

Best garbage disposal for septic tanks size

Depending on the size of the septic tank, the size of the garbage disposal system has to be adjusted and selected. For instance, if the tank is small, then it is inadvisable to opt for a disposal unit that is too big. If such a unit is installed, one won’t be able to flush a lot of waste every time they use it.

However, too big a unit does lead to space constraints under the sink (that is where a garbage disposal unit is generally installed). The best thing to do is finding a compact or workable-sized unit that generates the same level of processing power as a large unit without having a big tank. We’ve separately compiled a list of compact garbage disposals that are ideal for deep sinks.

2. Motor Power and RPM

The speed and the size of the motor help in the easy and smooth management of the waste put into the disposal unit. For instance, if the motor installed in your system pulverizes the food at a very high speed, then it would generate less waste and operate effectively as the general rule of thumb, the higher the power of the motor, the greater the efficiency of the unit. Generally, the motor power of a disposal unit varies between ½ HP to 1 HP. Ideally, if the disposal unit is to be used with a septic tank, the motor power should be half horsepower or 2600 rpm.

3. Septic-System Ready

While searching for the garbage disposal system for septic tanks, make sure to buy one that says compatible with the septic tank by the manufacturer. There are some units in the market that do not have this distinction and thus must be avoided. On the flip side, certain septic tanks are tailor made for septic tanks and not for regular plumbing.

Such units come hand-tied with a bio-pack so that the food particles can get a microorganism to cleanse every time the device is used. Ths setup automatically makes the system a lot smoother and makes way for efficient breaking down of the particles.

4. Feed type

Feed type refers to the frequency of disposal in the unit. Generally, there are two types- continuous feed and batch feed garbage disposals. Though most people opt for the continuous disposals since it is smoother, more efficient and easier to use; batch type feeding is more suitable for a disposal unit that is compatible with a septic tank.

In this model, one has to seal the disposal unit when it operates. Once this is done, the user does not have to run the disposal every single time the food is tossed in. That means one can reduce the amount of water that goes into the unit too. The batch feed works best if one has a smaller system.

 

5. Noise Level

It has been noted through multiple surveys and reviews that users these days prefer a quiet garbage disposal unit. This applies greatly to households that have kids and pets in it. Loud garbage disposal units can scare them. Additionally, such a system interrupts the ongoing conversation and generally makes people anxious.

Additionally, these are difficult to clean up. But noiseless does not mean one has to compromise on the power. Many disposal units these days come with sound-insulated padding. The grinding chamber absorbs all the vibration generated much before they can reach the top of the counter. There are multiple noiseless units available in the market with great reviews.

 

6. Installation

While hunting for garbage disposals for septic tanks, its installation facility must be looked into. Though the installation process does not directly contribute to the garbage disposal and its septic tank functions, having easy installation criteria in place is a major benefit. A complicated installation process can even get experienced plumbers confused.

To that end, it’s ideal for searching for a septic-safe garbage disposal that offers the DIY installation process with the use of minimum tools. Additionally, a well explained, easy to understand installation guide is a must. Finally, if the lines of the unit are not compatible with the standard plumbing lines, check if it does offer patented installation hardware.

7. Warranty

Warranty of Best garbage disposal for septic tanks

Most garbage disposal systems, whether it’s septic tank friendly or not, offer a 1-year warranty. However, that is the base level, and you need not settle for this. There are companies that offer 8 years even 10-year warranty on their models. As a rule of thumb, as the warranty years increase the price of the unit also increases. Most of the warranty provided with these units are home warranty. That means one does not have to take the disposal unit to some other place for servicing. All of it is done at home.

Conclusion

Finding the ideal septic tank garbage disposal unit is not easy. One has to research a lot to find out a unit that is suitable for the household in every way possible. Though it makes the lives of the housemates easy, makes cleaning hassle-free, but if the right unit is not selected, it can cause some serious malfunctioning when connected to a septic tank. However, with all the information listed above, finding one of the best garbage disposals for septic systems that fits your needs will not be an issue.

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