December 2023 - Garbage Disposal Guide

Are you in the market for a new garbage disposal? With so many options available, it can be overwhelming trying to decide which type is right for you. Will you go with a continuous feed or a batch feed? Is an InSinkErator model the best choice, or is Frigidaire a better bet? But one of the biggest decisions you'll have to make is whether to go with a corded vs non-corded garbage disposal. Both have their own set of advantages and drawbacks, making it difficult to determine which one will best suit your needs. But don't worry - we're here to help! In this blog post, we'll break down everything you need to know about corded vs non-corded garbage disposals, giving you all the information necessary to make an informed decision and find the perfect fit for your home. What Is a Garbage Disposal? Before we dive into the differences between corded vs. non-corded garbage disposals, let's make sure we're on the same page about what a garbage disposal is. A garbage disposal, also known as a waste disposal unit, is an electrical device that is typically installed under your kitchen sink. It's designed to shred food waste into small pieces that can easily pass through your plumbing system. This eliminates the need to scrape food scraps into the trash and reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. Not only is this environmentally friendly, but it also helps prevent clogged pipes and unpleasant odors in your kitchen. Now, while this explanation describes both corded and non-corded garbage disposals, there are a few things that set them apart. Let's take a look at the pros and cons of each. The Pros and Cons of Corded Garbage Disposals With a corded garbage disposal, you can simply plug it into an electrical outlet, making installation a breeze. Here are some pros and cons to consider when thinking about purchasing a corded garbage disposal: Pros: Easy Installation: Since they only require a power outlet, corded garbage disposals are generally easier to install and can often be done without the help of a professional. Lower Upfront Cost: Corded garbage disposals tend to be less expensive than their non-corded counterparts. Wider Availability: Since they are more commonly used, you'll have a wider selection of options when it comes to corded garbage disposals. Cons: Limited Placement Options: Because they require an outlet, corded garbage disposals can only be installed in certain areas of your kitchen. So, if you don't have an existing outlet under the sink, it may not be your best option. Potential Electrical Issues: Since it is plugged into an electrical outlet, there is a risk of electrical issues or shocks if the disposal unit isn't properly installed or if the cord gets damaged. Of course, you can always reduce your risk of any kind of electrical issues by installing an air switch. As you can see, there is a lot to like about corded garbage disposals. However, the same could be said for cordless options. The Pros and Cons of Non-Corded Garbage Disposals Unlike corded garbage disposals, you don’t need to plug non-corded models into an electrical outlet. However, they're still electrically powered, so you'll need an electrician to hardwire a non-corded garbage disposal to the main power supply. Here are some pros and cons to consider when deciding on a non-corded garbage disposal: Pros: Versatility: You don’t need an electrical outlet under the sink for cordless models. This gives you more flexibility in your kitchen layout. Safer: Since you connect them directly to the main power supply, there is less risk of electrical issues or shocks. Better Aesthetics: Non-corded garbage disposals are hardwired and hidden from view, giving your kitchen a cleaner look. Cons: Professional Installation Required: As mentioned before, non-corded garbage disposals require professional installation, which can add to the overall cost of the unit. Limited Availability: You won’t find quite as many non-corded models on the market, so there may be fewer options to choose from compared to corded garbage disposals. How to Choose Between a Corded vs Non-corded Garbage Disposal Now that you know the pros and cons of both corded and non-corded garbage disposals, how do you decide which one is right for you? Well, here are some factors to consider: Budget Corded garbage disposals tend to be less expensive overall, as they do not require professional installation. However, if you have the budget for it, a non-corded model may offer additional benefits and convenience. Kitchen Layout Does your kitchen layout allow for an electrical outlet near the sink? If so, then you can at least consider a corded garbage disposal. But if not, a non-corded model may be the only option. Safety If safety is a priority, then you may want to go with a non-corded model. They greatly reduce the risk of electrical issues and shocks. Choice Since they are more widely available, corded garbage disposals offer a wider range of options to choose from. With non-corded garbage disposals being less common, your choices may be more limited. Personal Preference At the end of the day, it all comes down to personal preference. Consider what features and benefits are most important to you, and make your decision based on that. Corded vs Non-corded Garbage Disposals: Which Will You Choose? Both corded and non-corded garbage disposals have their pros and cons, so the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you're looking for a budget-friendly option and have access to an electrical outlet near your sink, a corded model may be the way to go. But if safety is a top priority or you’re missing that all-important sink outlet, then a non-corded garbage disposal may be worth considering. Ultimately, whichever type of garbage disposal you choose, make sure it meets your needs and fits into your kitchen's layout seamlessly. A garbage disposal is a convenient and practical addition to any kitchen, so if you choose wisely, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the benefits it brings to your daily life. Happy disposal hunting! Are you thinking a non-corded model is right for you? Then check out the Frigidaire Direct Wire Garbage Disposal here. Or, if you’re in the market for a corded one, then check out the InSinkErator Badger 1 here.