Garbage Disposal: Comparison of 5/8 HP and 3/4 HP
There are two popular horsepower options when shopping for a garbage disposal: 3/4 HP and 5/8 HP. Both models work well, but the 3/4 HP model has more power, so it can handle tougher food scraps. A 5/8 HP disposal might be the right choice if you do not cook often or have minimal food waste. For those who cook more frequently or deal with larger volumes of waste, the 3/4 HP model is the better choice.
Differences Between 5/8 HP and 3/4 HP Garbage Disposals
| Feature | 5/8 HP | 3/4 HP |
|---|---|---|
| Grinding Power | Handles light-to-medium food waste. Struggles with tougher waste like bones and fibrous vegetables. | More powerful, efficiently handles tougher food scraps like bones, fibrous veggies, and larger quantities. |
| Build Quality | Usually made with stainless steel grinding components and rust-resistant materials, but lower-end models may use plastic. | Typically made with high-quality stainless steel, designed for durability and longevity under heavy use. |
| Warranty | Typically comes with a 2-4 year warranty, depending on the brand. | Generally has a 5-8 year warranty, offering more peace of mind and longer coverage. |
| Price | More budget-friendly, ideal for smaller households with light kitchen waste. | Higher price, but offers better value for households with frequent food waste and larger families. |
| Noise | May be noisier, but many models feature noise insulation for quieter operation. | Typically quieter, especially with premium models that include noise reduction technology like SoundShield. |
| Size | Compact design, fits easily in smaller kitchens with limited under-sink space. | Larger size, requiring more under-sink space but offers better performance and capacity. |
| Motor Type | InSinkErator uses induction motors running at 1725 RPM for a smoother, more consistent grind. | Waste King uses high-speed permanent magnet motors running at 2800 RPM, offering faster grinding speed. |
| Grinding Capacity | Best for lighter tasks; can’t handle as many tough scraps. | Better suited for heavier waste; can handle tough food scraps more efficiently. |
| Brand and Model Variations | InSinkErator 5/8 HP models often belong to the premium Evolution series, offering better build and features. | Waste King 3/4 HP models are priced lower, with slightly less premium features but often longer warranties. |
Common Features in 5/8 HP and 3/4 HP Garbage Disposals by InSinkErator
Both 5/8 HP and 3/4 HP garbage disposals from InSinkErator come equipped with several premium features that make them stand out in the market. These features are designed to provide better performance, quieter operation, and increased durability. Let’s take a closer look at what these models have in common:
Noise Insulation: Enjoy a Quieter Kitchen
One of the standout features of both 5/8 HP and 3/4 HP InSinkErator garbage disposals is the SoundShield noise insulation. This technology is a game-changer for anyone tired of the loud, disruptive noise typical of older garbage disposals.
With SoundShield, these models are around 40% quieter than standard disposals without noise insulation. The insulation layers and anti-vibration mounts work together to significantly reduce the sound produced during operation. This feature is particularly useful for households with smaller kitchens or those who prefer a quieter, more peaceful environment while using the disposal.
Multi-Stage Grinding: Efficient Waste Processing
Another premium feature found in both 5/8 HP and 3/4 HP models is multi-stage grinding. This advanced grinding process ensures food waste is broken down into smaller particles, which can easily pass through your drain pipes without causing clogs.
Multi-stage grinding is especially beneficial when dealing with fibrous vegetables, such as celery, which can cause blockages in standard disposals. Thanks to the multiple grinding stages, the fibers are finely chopped, preventing potential pipe clogs and ensuring smoother waste disposal. This makes the 5/8 HP and 3/4 HP models perfect for handling a wider range of food scraps, including tougher ones that might otherwise be a problem.
High Build Quality: Durability You Can Count On
InSinkErator’s 5/8 HP and 3/4 HP garbage disposals are built to last, with premium materials that ensure longevity and resilience. Both models feature stainless steel grinding chambers and components, which are resistant to rust and corrosion. These durable materials are designed to withstand constant contact with water, ensuring that your disposal will continue to perform reliably over the years.
When comparing these models to Waste King’s 3/4 HP disposals, the differences in build quality become apparent. While Waste King offers solid construction with corrosion-resistant plastic grinding chambers, they lack the noise insulation and multi-stage grinding features found in InSinkErator’s models. However, Waste King’s disposals do have high-speed motors that run at almost twice the speed of InSinkErator’s induction motors, offering a faster grind.
5/8 HP Garbage Disposals: Premium Evolution Series
InSinkErator’s 5/8 HP garbage disposals are part of their premium Evolution series, designed as a higher-end alternative to the standard 1/2 HP models. These disposals provide all the benefits of a 1/2 HP unit but with added premium features, including noise insulation and multi-stage grinding, making them ideal for customers looking for a more efficient, quieter disposal solution.
InSinkErator vs. Waste King: Key Differences
While both InSinkErator and Waste King offer great 3/4 HP options, there are key differences between their products. Waste King’s 3/4 HP models tend to be priced lower, but they miss out on some of the premium features that make InSinkErator disposals stand out.
InSinkErator’s models, on the other hand, come with noise insulation, multi-stage grinding, and stainless steel components — all contributing to a quieter, more durable, and highly efficient unit. These premium features make the 5/8 HP InSinkErator garbage disposal an excellent choice for anyone willing to invest in long-term kitchen convenience and reliability.
Popular 5/8 HP Garbage Disposals
2. InSinkErator Evolution 5/8 HP Continuous Feed Garbage Disposal
- The InSinkErator SpaceSaver offers the same high-quality features and specifications as the Evolution Select garbage disposal. The key distinction is that the SpaceSaver is available exclusively through Lowes. Additionally, while the overall performance and design are identical, the warranty and price may vary over time.
Popular 3/4 HP Garbage Disposals
1. InSinkErator Evolution Compact 3/4 HP Compact Garbage Disposer
- The Evolution Compact is a popular choice due to its small size, making it easy to install under deeper kitchen sinks. At just 12.25 inches tall, it can hold up to 34.6 oz of food waste. Additionally, it features a standard 3-bolt assembly, which can be swapped with other InSinkErator models.
2. Waste King L-3200 3/4 HP Garbage Disposal
- The L-3200 is an affordable garbage disposal with a 3/4 HP motor. Its high-speed motor provides enough power to easily grind tough food items like chicken bones. The grinding parts are made of durable stainless steel, and the grinding chamber is built with a strong polymer material.
Other HP Garbage Disposal Comparisons:
1/2 HP vs 3/4 HP Garbage Disposals
3/4 HP vs 1 HP Garbage Disposals
1/2 HP vs 1/3 HP Garbage Disposal
Conclusion
Smaller households with two people who cook infrequently, such as once a week, will benefit most from a 5/8 HP garbage disposal. It would be better to use a 3/4 HP garbage disposal if you have three to four people in your household and cook more often, since it will be able to handle more waste and will work more efficiently.
Garbage disposals come in a variety of sizes to suit different needs. Depending on your household size and cooking habits, you can choose from 1/3 HP, 1/2 HP, 3/4 HP, and 1 HP models. See our detailed guide on choosing the right garbage disposal size for your home for more help.
