When choosing a new garbage disposal for your kitchen you will have several options to choose from. In addition to the size of the motor, you will need to choose between a batch feed model and a continuous feed model. Each type of garbage disposal has its advantages and disadvantages.
Continuous feed models are the most common type of garbage disposal. With a continuous feed model the disposal is switched on and keeps running until it is turned off. While it is running, you can continue adding waste material. Alternatively, you can choose to add the waste material, switch on the disposal, and then switch it off when the grinding process is complete. Water should be running while the unit is in operation to help flush away the ground up waste.
With a batch feed model, the waste material is loaded into the disposal and a lid or cover is locked in place over the drain before the unit switched on. On some units, installing the lid or cover activates the disposal. On others, the unit is turned on with a wall switch like a continuous feed model. In either case, the disposal will not operate without the lid or cover in place over the drain.
The main advantage of a batch feed model is that it is safer than a continuous feed unit. Since a batch feed disposal will not operate without the lid in place, it prevents hands and fingers from accidently getting into the disposal.
Continuous feed models are a little faster than batch feed models, especially if you have a large amount of waste material to dispose of. Some cooks prefer continuous feed models because they can leave the unit running while they are handling food preparation like chopping and peeling.
Whichever model you choose, your garbage disposal installation is best handled by a good local plumber. Professional garbage disposal installation helps ensure that the unit will work well, won’t leak, and will provide good service for years.
