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Triple master contractor Ed Del Grande
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By Ed Del Grande
Q: Dear Ed, we need your expert advice. My husband and I are remodeling our kitchen and plan on removing the old cabinets and fixtures. Our old garbage disposer still works fine, and our plumber says we can reuse it. But, since it is several years old, does it make sense to spend the extra money for a new disposer? Bill and Lucia (Colorado)
A: Hi, Lucia. Premium garbage disposers have recently evolved into high-tech machines that address the two most important disposer issues: grinding ability and noise reduction. Along with having more models to choose from to fit your lifestyle, the new wave of disposers is engineered to work hard for you in the kitchen. The short answer to your question is yes, it may be a very good idea to upgrade to a new model. The long answer is to let me explain some of the new features found in today's garbage disposers and then you can decide for yourself if it's best for you to upgrade:
- Higher end models are the ultimate in performance. They feature three grinding stages that will grind almost any food waste from rib bones to corn cobs. Plus, they are 60 percent quieter than a standard disposer!
- Midrange models offer a second stage of grind versus a standard disposer and are at least 40 percent quieter than standard disposers.
- Quieter compact models are available for small spaces.
- Septic-system disposers feature an automatic injection of a natural microorganism into the septic system to help break down food waste.
As you can see, with all the new disposer technology available in today's market, you certainly won't be throwing your money down the drain if you upgrade to a new garbage disposer!
Ed Del Grande was born and raised in a family-owned plumbing business. With more than 25 years of experience in every aspect of construction, he holds current Master licenses in pipefitting, fire protection and plumbing. If you have a question for Ed, send him an e-mail at eddelgrande@hgtvpro.com.
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