Waste Disposal Units
What to look for in a waste disposer:
1. The quality of the cutters
There are 2 cutters – one which rotates and one that is stationary. The better the quality, the better the grindability.
The budget models usually have galvanised cutters and they tend to be lightweight. The medium models have stainless steel cutters which are heavier and will not corrode.The heavier models either have extra heavier impellors or extra "rippers" or are made of cast iron.
2. Motor Size
Should be around ½HP or ¾HP or 475 watts minimum.
3. Physical Dimensions
Check the size to make sure it will fit in the space available. Avoid having a shelf immediately below it as some machines have their reset/overload buttons on the base.
4. Batch Feed or Continuous Feed
Continuous feed disposers are very convenient. Once the machine is switched on and the water is running the food is fed into it continuously until it has all been disposed of.
There are three methods to switch it on:
- On/off wall switch spurred off from the 13amp supply under the sink.
- Air switch is set into the worktop. This sends a pulse of air to the machine to switch it on & off. Very safe with damp hands.
- Remote Control Unit.
Batch feed units are very safe and ideal if there are small children around as the machine can only operate when the special stopper in place. It disposes of the food in batches.
Operational Noise - The disposers with induction motors are generally quieter than the machines with permanent magnet motors. However, the p.m. machines run much faster (2600rpm) and usually grind food waste very finely. They are a must if your pipework is long/bendy/complicated.