How Much Does Garbage Disposal Installation Cost? [2024 Data]
Normal range: $100 - $1,200
Garbage disposal installation costs an average of $400, but pricing varies based on the model and whether you DIY or hire a pro.
For a hurried home chef, there's nothing quite like tossing veggie scraps into the base of the sink and flipping a switch for quick and easy cleanup. But if your garbage disposal is showing its age—or you're dreaming of installing one for the first time—it's time to consider what you can expect to spend. The average cost of a garbage disposal is $400, depending on your model, the size of the job, and labor costs in your area.
- Average
- $400
- Low end
- $70
- high end
- $1,500
For a hurried home chef, there's nothing quite like tossing veggie scraps into the base of the sink and flipping a switch for quick and easy cleanup. But if your garbage disposal is showing its age—or you're dreaming of installing one for the first time—it's time to consider what you can expect to spend. The average garbage disposal installation cost is $400, depending on your model, the size of the job, and the price of labor in your area.
Garbage Disposal Installation Cost Factors
From the unit itself to motor size and plumbing issues, there are numerous cost factors that go into garbage disposal installation.
Feed Type
There are two main types of garbage disposal: continuous-feed and batch-feed. You’ll also want to factor in the brand name and the strength of the motor.
| Garbage Disposal Type | Average Unit Cost |
|---|---|
| Continuous-feed | $260 |
| Batch-feed | $310 |
Continuous-feed disposals are more common and cost an average of $260. They must plug into an outlet to operate, often wired to a switch. Flipping the switch turns the system on, and it will run until the switch is flipped off. This makes continuous-feed disposals better at preventing clogs.
Batch-feed disposals are harder to find and more difficult to operate. On average, they cost $310, though installation is less expensive. Food scraps are inserted in batches, after which a cover is placed over the opening. Users must twist or push down the cover to turn the grinder. This makes them safer but also more susceptible to leaving behind food to rot.
Material
Garbage disposals are manufactured using various materials, but the most common options are aluminum and stainless steel. Stainless steel garbage disposals cost $400 to $1,200 on average. Aluminum garbage disposals cost less, at $70 to $350, but they tend not to last as long.
| Material | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Aluminum | $70–$350 |
| Stainless Steel | $400–$1,200 |
Motor Size
Garbage disposal motors are rated for their grinding strength as measured in horsepower (HP). Larger motors are more powerful and efficient but also cost more. The average family of three to five people needs a three-quarter HP unit. Larger units are useful for large families or those who frequently cook and need to grind up large amounts of difficult waste multiple times per day.
| Garbage Disposal Strength | Average Household Size | Average Price |
|---|---|---|
| ⅓ HP | 1 – 2 people | $90–$240 |
| ½ HP | 2 – 3 people | $130–$260 |
| ¾ HP | 3 – 5 people | $160–$350 |
| 1 HP | 5 – 8 people | $220–$540 |
| 2 HP | 8 or more people | $300–$1,000 |
Electrical and Plumbing
Brand-new garbage disposal installations often require electrical and plumbing work. For instance, you may need to install a new electrical outlet under the sink if there's not one already there. You may also need some plumbing work to connect the new garbage disposal to the dishwasher.
You'll need to hire a garbage disposal installer near you to do this type of work. Plumbers cost $45 to $200 hourly, and electricians cost $50 to $100 hourly.
Job Size
One of the biggest cost factors is the type of installation you need. If you're simply replacing an existing garbage disposal, you'll pay less than you would for a new installation that requires new plumbing connections and electrical wiring. Likewise, you'll pay even more to install a totally new kitchen sink with a garbage disposal. The cost of sink installation alone is $400.
Common Garbage Disposal Add-Ons
Aside from motor strength, feed type, brand, material, and other cost factors related to the disposal unit itself, several other factors affect the total cost of a garbage disposal installation. Keep the following in mind as you budget for your project.
Models can come with built-in features or be customized with additional parts.
Anti-jamming tool: A key or wrench that’s used to fix a jammed system. Cost: $10.
Baffle: Reduces noise and prevents utensils from falling in or waste from splashing out. Cost: $5 to $45.
Dishwasher drain connector: Connects appliance drains to prevent clogs. Cost $10 to $40.
Push-button system: Circumvents the need for an operating switch. Cost: $40 to $90.
Septic-assist system: Breaks down waste with enzymes or chemicals. Cost: $10 to $50.
What Kind of Garbage Disposal Can I Get on My Budget?
Whenever you're on the verge of a home renovation project, the first question you typically ask is, "How much can I afford?" Garbage disposal costs vary depending on their motor size, brand, and how much work you need in relation to the installation. Let's look at a few common ranges.
$50 to $350
This is the common range to install a garbage disposal yourself. If you choose a small motor and brand in the lower price range, your average cost will land on the lower end of this range.
$350 to $600
Whether you live in the heart of Manhattan or the prairies of Nebraska, assume that standard garbage disposal installation will fall into this price range. The price includes the disposal itself, installation labor, and in some cases, extra wiring. You’ll need a slightly different garbage disposal if your wastewater is handled by a septic system.
$600 and Up
Once you move past the $600 mark, include costs for higher horse-power motors, extensive wiring, and new sink installation. This is the common price range for renovation with attached projects.
Installing a Garbage Disposal DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
It is possible to install a garbage disposal yourself, but the difficulty and risk involved will vary. For example, installation is relatively straightforward if you're replacing an existing disposal with a similar unit or batch-feed model. However, if your sink has never been fitted for a garbage disposal, your project will likely require complex plumbing and wiring work.
Hire a local plumber to ensure the job is done properly and potentially get a quality guarantee to cover the cost of repairs if damage occurs from the installation. Your plumber may also know a reputable electrician near you to run wiring and install a GFCI outlet if needed.
However, if you’re particularly handy and have previous experience with this type of project, you’ll save between $90 and $250 by installing a garbage disposal yourself. By DIYing the job, you’ll only pay for the model itself—$50 to $350, depending on the brand, motor size, and type of machine. Add in the cost of basic tools for about $30, and you're ready to go.
But keep in mind, installing or replacing a garbage disposal yourself is only an option if the wiring and plumbing are already in place.
“The most common DIY mistake we see when someone installs a new garbage disposal is forgetting to knock out the dishwasher plug in the new unit,” says Bob Tschudi, a Raleigh, North Carolina-based general contractor. “So if you have a dishwasher, be sure to follow the directions carefully.”
How to Save on Garbage Disposal Installation
There are several ways to save on your investment when you install a garbage disposal.
DIY installation: You can avoid labor fees if you have the needed skills and tools.
Bundling: You may save by having multiple plumbing services done simultaneously.
Keep it simple: Look for a basic product that will get the job done without extra features.
Shop around: Compare quotes from multiple contractors to find the best price.
Ask about discounts: Some pros give discounts to seniors, veterans, or first-time customers.
Ginny Bartolone contributed to this article.
Frequently Asked Questions
Garbage disposals last an average of about 10 years, so it may be time for a new model if it's getting up there in age. Other signs that it's time to bring in a local garbage disposal pro include:
Leaks under your disposal
Persistent clogs
Lingering odors
Lack of power
Unexplained noises
Installing a garbage disposal should only take one to four hours, though it varies based on the complexity of the job and the plumber's skills. Installation time also depends on your plumbing's condition, whether you need electrical wiring work, the type of disposal you're installing, and its size.
Continuous feed garbage disposals are the favorite model for many homeowners for a reason. As opposed to batch feed models, add food scraps to the drain whenever the disposal is running. This variety is also typically less expensive, more convenient, and easier to clean.