Garbage Disposal Horsepower Guide
Updated February 20, 2026
Key Takeaway
Horsepower determines what foods you can grind, how fast it processes, and how often it jams. The price difference between 1/3 HP and 3/4 HP is only $30-80, but the performance difference is enormous.
Overview
Horsepower determines what foods you can grind, how fast it processes, and how often it jams. The price difference between 1/3 HP and 3/4 HP is only $30-80, but the performance difference is enormous.
What to Know
Comparison
| 1/3 HP: $60-100, soft foods only, frequent jams, rentals only |
| 1/2 HP: $80-150, most foods, occasional jams, standard households |
| 3/4 HP: $150-250, all household foods, rare jams, families |
| 1 HP: $200-300, maximum performance, virtually zero jams, heavy use |
Buying Tips
- Buy at least 1/2 HP. The $20-40 savings of 1/3 HP is not worth constant jamming.
- 3/4 HP is the sweet spot for most families.
- Sound insulation is as important as HP for kitchen comfort.
- Stainless steel grinding components last longer than galvanized.
Common Mistakes
- Buying 1/3 HP to save $20. It jams weekly and frustrates everyone.
- Ignoring sound insulation. A loud 1 HP is worse than a quiet 1/2 HP.
- Assuming all brands at the same HP perform equally.
- Not considering septic compatibility if you are on septic.
Bottom Line
1/2 HP minimum. 3/4 HP best value for families. 1 HP for heavy use. Sound insulation matters as much as horsepower.