Comparing 1/2 HP vs 1/3 HP Garbage Disposals: Which is Best?

There are many garbage disposal options available when choosing one for your kitchen. For residential use, 1/3 HP and 1/2 HP garbage disposals are the most common choices. They are considered entry-level models and are often similar, making it hard for customers to choose the one that is right for them. A better understanding of the differences between these two can ease the decision-making process.

The main difference between 1/3 HP and 1/2 HP garbage disposals is their grinding power. 1/2 HP disposals offer more strength and are better able to handle tougher food waste. Compared to the 1/3 HP model, it also experiences fewer jams. Both models are available from leading manufacturers such as Waste King, InSinkErator, and Moen.

It’s important to note that each brand’s model may differ significantly in features, so comparing a 1/3 HP from one brand with a 1/2 HP from another may not be very helpful. This article compares these two grinders based on their grinding capacity, features, and overall performance.

Differences Between 1/3 HP and 1/2 HP Garbage Disposals

Feature	1/3 HP Disposal	1/2 HP Disposal
Grinding Tougher Foods	Can’t grind fish bones.	Can grind fish bones & small meats.
Frequency of Jams	Prone to jams.	Less likely to jam.
Suitability for Cooking	Good for small households.	Good for light cooks.
Price	More affordable.	Higher due to stronger motor.
Warranty	Shorter warranty.	Longer warranty.

Grinding Power and Performance: 1/3 HP vs 1/2 HP

The 1/2 HP garbage disposal is a step up in terms of grinding power. While the 1/3 HP is better suited for lighter, everyday food scraps, the 1/2 HP is capable of handling tougher materials. For instance, a 1/2 HP disposal can manage fish bones and small quantities of cooked meat, whereas a 1/3 HP unit would struggle with these items. However, the 1/2 HP model is only slightly more powerful—it can handle tougher foods but isn’t built for heavy-duty tasks like grinding large bones or fibrous vegetables.

Frequency of Jams

One of the main issues with 1/3 HP disposals is that they tend to jam more frequently. This is due to the motor’s lower torque, which makes it harder to break down tougher waste. On the other hand, the 1/2 HP model provides more torque, reducing the chances of a jam. If you’re using the disposal regularly or for slightly tougher waste, the 1/2 HP will perform much better.

Best for Frequent Cooking: 1/3 HP vs 1/2 HP

If you cook once or twice a week, a 1/2 HP garbage disposal would likely be your best option. It’s built to handle the amount of food waste that comes with moderate cooking. On the other hand, a 1/3 HP disposal is best for people who cook infrequently and don’t generate a large amount of food scraps. For regular cooks who frequently prepare larger meals or tougher foods, a 3/4 HP or 1 HP model may be a better fit.

Price Comparison

The 1/3 HP garbage disposal is generally the more affordable option, making it an excellent choice for those on a budget. However, the difference in price between the 1/3 HP and 1/2 HP models is usually not significant, considering that the 1/2 HP model offers more power and reliability. For just a slight increase in cost, you get a more capable unit with fewer chances of jamming and longer-lasting performance.

Warranty and Durability

Typically, 1/2 HP models come with a longer warranty compared to 1/3 HP models. This is an indication of their higher durability and the manufacturer’s confidence in the longer lifespan of the motor. A 1/3 HP model is often seen as more of a budget option with a shorter warranty, reflecting its reduced durability over time.

Similarities Between 1/3 HP and 1/2 HP Garbage Disposals

Despite their differences, 1/3 HP and 1/2 HP garbage disposals share several similarities:

• Dimensions: Both models are usually built to the same size in many brands. For example, InSinkErator’s Badger 1 (1/3 HP) and Badger 5 (1/2 HP) have the same dimensions in height and width. The key difference is the motor inside.
• Build Quality: The basic construction and materials of both models are often similar, especially in entry-level models. Most models have galvanized steel grinding components, though this material is less durable than stainless steel found in higher-end models.
• Noise Insulation: Both the 1/3 HP and 1/2 HP disposals typically lack noise insulation due to their budget-friendly design. As a result, you may experience more noise while the motor is running compared to higher-end models with additional soundproofing features.

Popular 1/3 HP Garbage Disposals

Popular 1/2 HP Garbage Disposals

Which Should You pick: 1/3 HP or 1/2 HP?

We recommend you to choose 1/2 hp disposal over 1/3 hp one. But If you have a small household and don’t cook often, a 1/3 HP disposal may be sufficient for your needs. It is more affordable and will handle basic food scraps just fine. However, if you do cook regularly or prefer a model that jams less and handles tougher waste, the 1/2 HP model is the better choice.

Other HP Garbage Disposal Comparisons:

5/8 HP vs 3/4 HP Garbage Disposal
1/2 HP vs 3/4 HP Garbage Disposal
3/4 HP vs 1 HP Garbage Disposal

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your kitchen needs. The 1/2 HP model offers more power, a longer lifespan, and fewer jams, making it the better choice for most households. If you’re on a tight budget and don’t cook often, a 1/3 HP disposal can still handle the basics but may require more frequent maintenance.

FAQ’s