How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Garbage Disposal?

Garbage Disposal Cost by Motor Size

The motor size in a garbage disposal determines how much food waste it can handle at once. More powerful motors come with higher prices, so it’s smart to select a motor size that fits your household’s needs to avoid spending more than necessary.
For homes with just one or two people, a ⅓ to ½ horsepower motor is usually enough and typically ranges from $90 to $265. Bigger families with five to eight members may need a 1-horsepower model, which can cost between $240 and $440.

Labor Cost to Replace a Garbage Disposal

Swapping out an old garbage disposal is usually a simple job that takes about an hour for an SD Appliance Repair professional to complete. Installers typically charge between $90 and $140 per hour for this kind of work. The process involves leveling the new unit, connecting a few components, securing the exterior, and running a test to ensure everything works properly.
In many cases, technicians will also take care of removing the old disposal at no extra cost, as it’s part of the replacement process. They’re familiar with how to dispose of broken units and know where to take them. However, if the existing disposal is hard to reach, such as when it’s rusted in place, there could be extra labor involved. In such situations, you might see an added charge of $90 to $140.

Additional Garbage Disposal Replacement Cost Factors

The cost to replace a garbage disposal typically falls between $240 and $665, with most people spending about $590. If you’re handy and comfortable doing the work yourself, you might only spend around $115 on a basic unit and the necessary tools. Final pricing depends on several factors, including the model you pick, the power of the motor, and whether you hire an SD Appliance Repair professional to install it.

Feed Type

Garbage disposals generally fall into two main categories: continuous feed and batch feed models. Continuous feed options, ranging in price from $115 to $1,040, are popular because they let you grind up food waste nonstop while the unit is running. On the other hand, batch feed models, which usually cost between $115 and $340, require you to load waste in batches and use a cover to start the process, making them a safer choice for homes with young kids.

Material

Garbage disposals are typically constructed from either aluminum or stainless steel. Aluminum models, priced between $115 and $340 depending on their size and motor strength, are more affordable and widely used. However, they don’t last as long—usually less than a decade—and are more likely to develop leaks or rust over time.
Stainless steel versions, on the other hand, come at a higher cost, ranging from $440 to $1,140, but they’re built to last. With strong resistance to corrosion and wear, they’re often the go-to choice for busy households or commercial kitchens that rely heavily on their disposal systems.

Warranties

When you purchase a new garbage disposal, it usually includes a warranty from the manufacturer, and in some cases, your installer might provide an additional one. It’s important to review the details before buying the unit or hiring a plumber so you understand exactly what’s included.
Warranty coverage typically lasts anywhere from one to ten years, depending on the brand and model. These warranties generally only cover defects in manufacturing, so it’s still essential to use the disposal properly to avoid damaging it and facing unexpected repair costs.

Electrical Upgrades

The power requirements for a garbage disposal can vary depending on the specific unit and local regulations. Some models are designed to plug directly into a standard 120-volt outlet, typically drawing between five and ten amps. However, certain building codes may call for a dedicated 15-amp circuit equipped with GFCI and AFCI protection.
GFCI (ground fault circuit interrupter) and AFCI (arc fault circuit interrupter) safeguards help prevent electrical hazards by shutting off the circuit when needed. If you’re unsure about what your disposal needs or whether your setup is up to code, it’s a good idea to consult a licensed electrician.