Badger 1 Vs. Badger 5 – Detailed Comparison With Installation Guide
InSinkErator makes two well-known garbage disposals: the Badger 1 and the Badger 5. At first look, they seem almost identical. They have a similar design and share a lot of the same features, which can make it hard to see any real difference. But there are a few key differences between them that could make a big impact on how well they work in your kitchen.
If you’re trying to decide which one is best for you, it helps to understand what sets these models apart. Badger 1 and Badger 5 differ in motor power, grinding strength, and warranty. The right choice isn’t just about which is cheaper or looks better—it’s about which one suits your needs the best. Knowing these differences can help you pick the right disposal for your kitchen without spending extra money or dealing with a model that falls short.
Who This Comparison Is For?
This comparison is for anyone looking for a new garbage disposal, whether you’re replacing an old one or getting one for the first time. If you want to keep your kitchen neat and don’t want to call a plumber all the time, you should know which disposal is the better choice for your needs. This guide will help homeowners who want an affordable and easy-to-install solution.
Whether you live in a smaller home with less food waste or have a busy family that needs more grinding power, this guide is for you. We will cover everything you need to know—from motor power to warranty—so that you can pick the right disposal for your kitchen and your lifestyle.
Overview of Badger 1 and Badger 5
Badger 1: Features and Benefits
Simple and affordable, the Badger 1 is a popular choice. It has a 1/3 horsepower motor, which is great for small households or light kitchen use. This means it works well for grinding softer food scraps like vegetable peelings, without needing a lot of power. It’s compact, making it a good choice if you have limited space under your sink.
The grinding chamber is 26 ounces in capacity, which is enough for light, everyday kitchen waste. It’s made with galvanized steel, a material that is durable but affordable, keeping the overall cost of the Badger 1 down. It’s a continuous-feed disposal, meaning you can add more food waste while it’s running—this makes it convenient if you’re cleaning up after cooking or meals.
One of the key selling points of Badger 1 is that it is very budget-friendly. It’s designed for basic kitchen needs, perfect for those who don’t generate a lot of food waste or those living alone. With a 1-year limited warranty, it’s a straightforward, low-cost solution for simple waste disposal needs.
Badger 5: Features and Benefits
The Badger 5 is a step up from the Badger 1 in terms of power and performance. It has a 1/2 horsepower motor, which makes it more effective at grinding tougher food scraps like fruit peels or small bones. This means it is better suited for larger households where more food waste is generated regularly.
Like the Badger 1, it also has a 26-ounce grinding chamber, but the extra power helps it handle a wider range of food waste. The grinding components are also made of galvanized steel, but the increased motor power gives it an edge in overall efficiency. It’s also a continuous-feed disposal, making it just as easy to use when you’re cleaning up a busy kitchen.
The warranty on the Badger 5 is 2 years, which is longer than what you get with the Badger 1. This reflects its more robust performance and greater reliability. If you have a medium-sized family and cook frequently, the Badger 5 is a better fit because it can deal with a more demanding workload.
In short, the Badger 5 offers more power and a longer warranty, which makes it ideal for families who need more performance out of their garbage disposal compared to the basic features offered by Badger 1.
Detailed Side-by-Side Comparison
Below is a side-by-side comparison of the key features of Badger 1 and Badger 5. This chart highlights the main specifications to help you easily see the differences and determine which model better suits your kitchen needs.
| Feature | Badger 1 | Badger 5 |
| Motor Power | 1/3 Horsepower | 1/2 Horsepower |
| Grinding Capacity | 26-ounce chamber | 26-ounce chamber |
| Material | Galvanized Steel | Galvanized Steel |
| Noise Level | Moderate | Moderate (Slightly quieter due to better motor) |
| Warranty | 1 Year | 2 Years |
| Dimensions (Height x Width) | 11.5 x 6.3 inches | 12.6 x 6.3 inches |
| Weight | 12.7 lbs | 13.6 lbs |
| Power Supply | Standard 120-volt outlet | Standard 120-volt outlet |
| Amperage | 5.6 Amps | 6.3 Amps |
| Feed Type | Continuous Feed | Continuous Feed |
Motor Power Distinction
Motor power is the main difference between Badger 1 and Badger 5. Badger 1 comes with a 1/3 horsepower motor, whereas Badger 5 is equipped with a 1/2 horsepower motor. This difference might not seem huge at first, but it actually impacts how well each model can handle everyday kitchen tasks.
A 1/3 horsepower motor, like the one in Badger 1, is designed for light to moderate use. It works well for smaller households or people who don’t generate much kitchen waste. It can handle typical food scraps like vegetable peels and small leftovers. However, it might struggle with tougher items like fibrous vegetables or fruit pits.
On the other hand, Badger 5 has a 1/2 horsepower motor, giving it more power to grind tougher food scraps. This makes it better suited for medium-sized families or for people who cook regularly and have a lot of kitchen waste. The added horsepower means it can handle denser items more effectively, reducing the risk of clogs or jams.
Effectiveness in Result of Engine Power
The motor power directly affects how well each model can handle different types of food waste.
Badger 1 is perfect for basic kitchen use. It can easily manage soft food scraps like potato peels, apple skins, and small leftovers. However, it struggles with tougher waste, such as fruit pits, fibrous vegetables like celery, or chicken bones. This model is ideal for households with lighter waste, like a single person or a couple who doesn’t cook heavily.
Badger 5, with its 1/2 horsepower motor, is more effective when it comes to grinding tougher food waste. It can handle heavier kitchen scraps like harder vegetables, small bones, and even fibrous material to some extent. It is better for a family kitchen, where a lot of cooking means more types of food waste. The extra power helps grind these tougher items without straining the motor, which means less risk of jams and smoother performance.
Dimensions and Shape Differences
When it comes to size, Badger 1 and Badger 5 are quite similar, but there are some minor differences. The Badger 1 measures 11.5 inches in height and 6.3 inches in width, making it a compact option for kitchens with limited cabinet space under the sink. Its smaller size means it’s a great fit if you have a tighter space under your sink or if you want to keep room available for other under-sink storage.
The Badger 5 is slightly taller, at 12.6 inches, and is also 6.3 inches wide. Because of its larger motor, it weighs slightly more, coming in at 13.6 pounds compared to 12.7 pounds for Badger 1. This difference in size means that the Badger 5 takes up a bit more space, but it is still designed to fit most standard kitchen sinks. If you have more space and need extra power, Badger 5 will fit fine, but if space is tight, Badger 1 may be the better option.
Power Supply Differences
Both Badger 1 and Badger 5 require a standard 120-volt outlet for power, which is the common electrical setup found in most kitchens. However, there are small differences in the amperage requirement for each model. Badger 1 runs at 5.6 amps, whereas Badger 5 requires 6.3 amps. This slightly higher amperage for Badger 5 reflects its greater power and grinding capacity.
In terms of installation, both models are continuous-feed disposals and have similar installation requirements, including a standard wall switch for operation. They also come with the Quick Lock Sink Mount, which makes swapping out an old disposal relatively easy. Keep in mind that neither model comes with a power cord or a dishwasher connector, which must be purchased separately if needed.
Volume of Noise: Does Badger 1 and Badger 5 Sound the Same?
When it comes to noise, both Badger 1 and Badger 5 produce similar levels of sound during operation, which is typical for budget-friendly garbage disposals. Both models are made with galvanized steel, which is functional but does not offer the sound insulation of higher-end models.
The Badger 5 may be slightly quieter than Badger 1 because of its larger motor, which operates more efficiently. However, the difference in noise is minor, and neither model is marketed as being especially quiet. If you are sensitive to noise, you might consider installing additional sound insulation under the sink, such as foam padding, to help absorb some of the noise from these disposals.
If noise is a major concern, the InSinkErator Evolution series offers better sound insulation, but it comes at a higher cost. For the Badger 1 and Badger 5, keeping the cabinet door closed while in operation can also help to dampen the sound slightly, making it a more comfortable experience overall.
Installation Process: How to Install Badger 1 and Badger 5
The installation process for Badger 1 and Badger 5 is nearly identical. Both models use InSinkErator’s Quick Lock Sink Mount, which makes it easier to install or replace an existing disposal unit. This system is designed for DIY enthusiasts, allowing for straightforward swapping if you already have a similar mount setup under your sink.
Both disposals require a standard 120-volt power outlet and can be connected to a wall switch for operation. The process involves attaching the disposal to the sink drain, connecting the plumbing, and then wiring the power supply. Whether you choose Badger 1 or Badger 5, the steps are largely the same, making installation relatively simple if you have basic plumbing and electrical experience.
One difference to consider is size—since Badger 5 is slightly taller and heavier, it may take a little more effort to position it, especially if space under the sink is limited. However, both units are compact enough to fit most standard setups. Neither model comes with a power cord or a dishwasher connector kit, so if you need these for your setup, you’ll need to purchase them separately.
Step-by-Step Installation Guide for DIY Enthusiasts
If you’re comfortable with basic tools, you can install either Badger 1 or Badger 5 yourself. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Tools Needed:
- Flathead screwdriver
- Adjustable wrench
- Plumber’s putty
- Phillips screwdriver
- Pliers
- Safety goggles
Step-by-Step Installation:
- Turn Off Power and Disconnect Old Unit:
- It is essential to turn off the power to the old garbage disposal at the circuit breaker before you begin.
- Disconnect the old disposal from the sink and the power supply, removing any wiring and plumbing connections.
- Prepare the Sink Mount:
- Replace the sink flange and apply a ring of plumber’s putty around it.Insert the flange into the sink drain hole and press down to seal.
- Attach the Quick Lock Sink Mount over the flange from underneath the sink. Tighten it securely with screws.
- Install the Disposal Unit:
- Attach the Quick Lock Sink Mount to the disposal’s mounting ring.Twist the disposal unit into place until it locks tightly.
- If you have a dishwasher, connect the dishwasher drain line to the disposal’s inlet port. Make sure to knock out the plug inside the port before attaching the hose.
- Connect the Plumbing:
- Attach the discharge tube to the disposal unit. Connect this tube to the drain pipe, making sure all connections are tight to prevent leaks.
- Wiring the Disposal:
- If the disposal isn’t hardwired, you will need to attach a power cord. Connect the power wires (black to black, white to white) and ground wire, then securely cover the connections.
- For a hardwired setup, make sure you attach it directly to the existing electrical line under the sink.
- Test for Leaks and Operation:
- Reconnect the circuit breaker.Run water through the sink and test the disposal to make sure it runs properly and no leaks are present.
Troubleshooting Tips:
- If the unit doesn’t turn on, double-check your electrical connections.
- If you experience leaking, make sure the mounting ring and sink flange are tightened properly and that all connections have the correct washers and seals.
Warranty, Durability, and Maintenance Tips
The warranties offered by Badger 1 and Badger 5 are different, reflecting the models’ varying levels of durability and performance.
- Badger 1 comes with a 1-year limited warranty. This warranty covers both parts and in-home service, which means if something goes wrong within the first year, InSinkErator will send a technician to your home to repair or replace the disposal.
- Badger 5 offers a 2-year limited warranty. This longer coverage period makes it a more attractive option for households needing reliability, as the added power means less likelihood of mechanical problems. Like Badger 1, this warranty also covers parts and labor for in-home service.
Pros and cons of Badger 1
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Cons
Pros and Cons of Badger 5
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Cons
Our Recommendation: Which Model Should You Choose?
Badger 1 is best suited for individuals or households that have light kitchen use and need an affordable, simple solution. If you live alone, are part of a small family, or if you don’t cook often, Badger 1 can be an excellent choice. It’s perfect for:
- Single-Person Households: If you’re a student, a single professional, or someone who doesn’t generate a lot of kitchen waste, the 1/3 horsepower motor of Badger 1 is enough for your needs. It’s great for handling soft scraps like vegetable peels, fruit skins, and leftover bits from simple meals.
- Budget-Conscious Shoppers: If keeping costs low is a top priority, Badger 1’s lower price point makes it a very appealing choice. It provides basic garbage disposal functionality without the need for extra power, which can save you money both upfront and potentially in energy use.
- Limited Space: Badger 1 has a smaller size and lighter weight, making it ideal for tighter under-sink areas. If your kitchen has limited cabinet space, this model will fit better and be easier to maneuver during installation.
- Occasional Use Kitchens: If your kitchen isn’t used heavily—maybe in a vacation home, rental unit, or simply in a household where most meals are takeout—Badger 1’s basic power will be more than sufficient.
When to Choose Badger 5?
Badger 5 is the better option for households with higher kitchen waste volume or where a more powerful solution is needed. It has a 1/2 horsepower motor, making it more effective for grinding up tougher materials. This makes it ideal for:
- Medium-Sized Families: If you have a family and cook meals at home regularly, you’ll generate more kitchen waste. Badger 5, with its extra power, can grind through larger amounts of food waste, including tougher scraps like small bones and thicker fruit and vegetable peels. This makes it more reliable for daily use without the constant worry of clogs or jams.
- Cooks Who Use Varied Ingredients: If your cooking involves tougher, fibrous vegetables (like corn husks or celery), small bones, or heavier fruit pits, Badger 5 can handle these without as much strain compared to Badger 1. Its stronger motor makes it a better choice for grinding these kinds of materials.
- Long-Term Reliability Seekers: The 2-year warranty of Badger 5 provides more coverage and assurance than Badger 1. If you want a disposal that’s covered for a longer time, Badger 5’s warranty can provide peace of mind. Plus, its build quality supports more regular use, meaning less chance of needing a replacement anytime soon.
- Homeowners with More Space: Badger 5 is slightly larger than Badger 1. If your under-sink cabinet can accommodate a bit more height and weight, then the extra size should not be a problem. The extra performance you get is well worth the minor size difference.
Conclusion
Deciding between Badger 1 and Badger 5 depends on what your home needs and how much power you need in a garbage disposal. Badger 1 is a great choice if you’re looking for something simple and affordable that can handle light kitchen scraps. It’s reliable for small households, people living alone, or anyone who doesn’t cook a lot.
Badger 5, on the other hand, is better if you need more power. It’s more durable and is great for families, people who cook often, or anyone with more kitchen waste. The stronger motor, longer warranty, and better ability to handle tougher food scraps make it worth the extra cost if you need something more powerful.
Whether you need something basic or a bit stronger, both Badger 1 and Badger 5 are solid choices from InSinkErator, a trusted brand. Each model is made to handle different kitchen waste needs effectively.
