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Are you in the market for a food and waste disposal system for your cafe, diner, or restaurant? Take a look at our guide for commercial garbage disposals. These systems are powerful and efficient when it comes to reducing waste in your establishment.
Commercial garbage disposals are an excellent investment for food service establishments. As you know, there is no shortage of food waste when it comes to running a cafe, diner, or similar establishment. It can become a problem when there are not any efficient ways to dispose of waste.
A disposal system allows you to simply rinse off plates and will enable the food scraps to fall into the disposal, which connects to the sewage system. You can then grind up the food into smaller pieces, which allows it to flow away easily. Some models enable you to reduce the mass and catch it in a wastebasket that can then be used for making compost and recycling.
Comparison Table - Commercial Garbage Disposals
Image | Model | Feed Type | Speed | Horsepower | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
No products found. | Waste King 3000-1 | Continuous | 1725 RPM | 1 HP | |
No products found. | InSinkErator PRO1100XL Pro Series | Continuous | 1725 RPM | 1.1 HP | |
No products found. | Insinkerator LC-50-11 (Light Capacity) | Continuous | 1725 RPM | ½ HP | |
No products found. | NORTHSTAR DECOR PG-3000 | Continuous | 2800 RPM | 1.25 HP | |
No products found. | InSinkErator Evolution Pro Cover Control | Batch | 1725 RPM | ¾ HP |
Commercial Garburators According to Size
The size of disposal that you need will be entirely based on how much food waste you have. For example, a large 3 or more HP unit would not be necessary for a small cafe that serves a limited amount of coffee and food.
Why Use Commercial Waste Disposals
Commercial garbage disposals are a useful investment for food service establishments. There are many positive benefits to setting up one of these units for your business.
In this day and age, we are attempting to become a more environmentally-friendly society. This is one of the main benefits of incorporating the use of a garbage disposal system. Many units on the market will reduce the waste to tiny particles that will not harm society or the environment.
Another great advantage of having a way to dispose of waste efficiently is to protect the plumbing. It is immensely beneficial to foodservice companies. If you do not have a disposal, all of that food waste will be going into the drains of your sinks, which can cause them to become clogged. To unclog them, you would have to hire a commercial plumbing company, which can cost thousands of dollars.
If you throw food waste into the trash, it can rot and create a foul odor. It can also attract many rodents and insects.
Choosing a Commercial Garbage Disposal
Dimensions (Size)
There are many different sizes to choose from when it comes to disposals. It is essential to note the amount of space you have available under the sink before deciding which one to buy.
Generally, the models with higher horsepower will be a bit bigger. Keep in mind when shopping for a new disposal, that you should pick one that will suit your size and strength needs.
Horsepower (HP)
This is one of the most important factors to consider. Overall, the more HP a unit has, the greater the grinding power it will have. A massive 10 HP unit, for example, will provide you with the ultimate grinding power for large foodservice establishments. These models would be ideal for a busy steakhouse with a lot of challenging waste to grind.
A smaller 1 to 3 HP unit will provide less power, which will be more suitable for a smaller business. These units would be ideal for cafes or diners that have food waste that is easier to degrade, such as coffee grounds.
In summary, the more HP a model has, the more difficult the waste it can pulverize.
Grinding Speed Ratings (RPM)
Next to horsepower, the revolutions per minute (RPM) rating is an essential factor in deciding which model to purchase. RPM is the number of times per minute the blades spin.
The higher the RPM rating, the more effectively and quickly the unit will grind up the waste. Ensure that you are getting the appropriate number of RPMs for your needs.
Feed Type (batch or continuous)
There are two different types of feeding methods that you will find in all disposer models. A feed type is a method in which the waste disposal system handles the grinding process.
The first method is the batch method, which handles waste in batches. Once the limit has been reached, you switch the unit on, and the food is disposed of.
The second method is called continuous. During this process, you can turn on the device and continuously put food into the disposer while the blades spin.
Grind Chamber & Shredding Element (Grinder Blades)
This part is what will grind up the food particles that you place into the unit. For this, you are going to be looking at the type of metal that the blades and chamber are made of.
There are a few common types, including stainless steel, galvanized steel, and polymer. Stainless steel is durable and long-lasting. The steel option is durable but can be prone to corrosion. The polymer blended is rust-resistant and relatively long-lasting as well.
Auto-reverse Mode (Anti-jam)
This feature on certain models can be beneficial. Although it is not included in every model, we recommend buying one that includes this feature.
Auto-reverse is used to prevent jams. When there is too much waste in the disposal, the blades will automatically reverse to clear up the jam. Some units may have a switch to turn the blades in reverse.
Sound Reduction
If you have ever heard a garbage disposal, you know they can be loud. Restaurants are already noisy, so if you would like to keep the noise down, you will need to find a model with some form of noise reduction.
There are many different types of noise reduction technologies. These models assist with any unwanted noise levels, especially with the greater horsepower devices.
Electric Cords & Wiring/Electrical Load Requirements
Depending on where you want to place the device, you will need to take into account the power source. Many devices will include a power cord, but some will not.
Another factor that you need to consider is what the electrical load requirements are for each unit. Many of them will be versatile in using 208-220 and 240 volts.
Warranty
We all know how horrible it can be when something breaks and you don’t know how to fix it. Just like many people will purchase a warranty for their car, many disposal units come with a warranty as well.
Many disposals have different types of warranties. We recommend purchasing one with at least some form of a parts-and-labor warranty.
5 Best Commercial Garbage Disposals Reviewed
1. Waste King 3000-1
No products found.
Specification | |
|---|---|
Shredding Element | Cast metal |
Horsepower | 1 HP |
Speed | 1725 RPM |
Feed Type | Continuous |
Sound Masking | Yes, hush cushions included |
Warranty | 13 months, parts and labor |
Installation Information | |
|---|---|
Installation Type | Hush Cushion® |
Voltage | 110-120v |
Wattage | 17 Amps |
Max Sink Thickness | 1/2 Inch |
Dishwasher Hose Size | 7/8 Inch |
Drain Connection Size | 1-1/2 Inches |
Cord Included | Yes |
Cord Length | - |
You won’t need to worry about any type of food waste with the Waste King 3000. For its power, it comes in a relatively compact size. It boasts 1 HP and is capable of handling anything that you throw into it. It comes in durable cast metal design with a whopping 1725 RPM. It also features a continuous feed type, so you can keep grinding food while the machine is on.
While some units may be loud, the Waste King brand released this 3000-1 model to include hushing cushions for added noise reduction. It also comes with a 13-month warranty, so if something breaks you know you won’t have an issue getting it fixed.
Josue on Amazon found that this product was a great option for small to midsize restaurants and bakeries, stating ‘Works great…..once we got the right one it has been simply amazing at our restaurant.’
Many people loved the continuous feeding function of this product. Most people also thought that with 1 HP, this product handled all of their food waste needs.
2. InSinkErator PRO1100XL Pro Series
No products found.
Specification | |
|---|---|
Shredding Element | Stainless steel |
Horsepower | 1.1 HP |
Speed | 1725 RPM |
Feed Type | Continuous |
Sound Masking | Yes, SoundSeal Technology |
Warranty | 12 years |
Installation Information | |
|---|---|
Installation Type | QuickLock |
Voltage | 120v |
Wattage | 12.3 Amps |
Max Sink Thickness | - |
Dishwasher Hose Size | - |
Drain Connection Size | 1-1/2 Inches |
Cord Included | Yes |
Cord Length | - |
InSinkErator (ISE) has been producing high-quality disposals for many years. The PRO1100XL is a testament to their superb manufacturing. It features rust-resistant stainless steel that will last for many years. It also packs a punch with 1.1 HP. We loved the continuous feed method that allows for easy grinding.
Where InSinkErator PRO1100XL Pro Series really shines is the SoundSeal technology. ISE created an astonishingly quiet and powerful machine. It also features a 12-year warranty that includes service right to your door.
Buyers tended to love the quietness of this device. One customer from Insinkerator’s website shared that, ‘This disposer is incredibly quiet, have walked away without shutting it off because couldn't hear it operating.’ They often touted it as the quietest unit on the market.
Many users enjoyed the auto-reversing blades that prevent jamming on every occasion. We would also argue that the unit performs exceptionally well for midsize cafes and restaurants.
3. Insinkerator LC-50-11 (Light Capacity)
No products found.
Specification | |
|---|---|
Shredding Element | Stainless steel |
Horsepower | ½ HP |
Speed | 1725 RPM |
Feed Type | Continuous |
Sound Masking | No |
Warranty | 1 year |
Installation Information | |
|---|---|
Installation Type | - |
Voltage | 120v |
Wattage | 5.8 Amps |
Max Sink Thickness | - |
Dishwasher Hose Size | - |
Drain Connection Size | 1-1/2 Inches |
Cord Included | Yes |
Cord Length | - |
The Insinkerator LC 50 is a light capacity waste disposal system. It is ideal for light food service industry establishments such as convenience stores, delis, and cafes. It features a 1/2 HP motor and classic ISE design. It also comes with a durable, rust-resistant stainless steel casing. The continuous feed type is perfect for continual waste dumping. The LC 50 takes care of the rest.
Many people thought that this unit was perfect for packing a commercial grade disposal into a small package. Customers also noted that it was as easy to install as a household model, but with more power.
Simon from Amazon noted that, ‘installation was easy and quick.' They also loved the auto-reversing blades that prevented clogged pipes without any issues. If you run a small food service establishment, this may be an excellent option for you to check out.
4. NORTHSTAR DECOR PG-3000
No products found.
Specification | |
|---|---|
Shredding Element | Stainless steel |
Horsepower | 1.25 HP |
Speed | 2800 RPM |
Feed Type | Continuous |
Sound Masking | No |
Warranty | 10 years |
Installation Information | |
|---|---|
Installation Type | 3-Bolt Mount |
Voltage | - |
Wattage | - |
Max Sink Thickness | - |
Dishwasher Hose Size | - |
Drain Connection Size | - |
Cord Included | Yes |
Cord Length | - |
The Northstar Decor PG-3000 is a one-of-a-kind disposer in its class. It has the highest HP and RPM of any of the devices that we have reviewed thus far. If you run a busy restaurant with a constant flow of food waste, then this model will be perfect for you. It features a large 1.25 HP motor that spins at a whopping 2800 RPM. Nothing will stand in the way of this Northstar model.
It also features a continuous feed type, which is great for large quantities of food waste in a constant stream. It boasts a 10-year warranty. There won't be any worry of trying to get it fixed if it breaks.
Customers seemed to love the fact that this model is quiet for its large motor size. One customer on Amazon stated, ‘Quiet and powerful.' They also loved that the unit was so powerful and able to chop up anything that you put into it. It comes with a power cord and a three-bolt mounting system, so installation is effortless.
If you are in the market for a powerful and quiet device for your busy food service business, then this is one of the best options to consider on the market.
5. InSinkErator Evolution Pro Cover Control
No products found.
Specification | |
|---|---|
Shredding Element | Stainless steel |
Horsepower | ¾ HP |
Speed | 1725 RPM |
Feed Type | Batch |
Sound Masking | Yes, Anti-Vibration Mount |
Warranty | 7 years |
Installation Information | |
|---|---|
Installation Type | QuickLock |
Voltage | 120v |
Wattage | 7.8 Amps |
Max Sink Thickness | - |
Dishwasher Hose Size | - |
Drain Connection Size | 1-1/2 Inches |
Cord Included | No |
Cord Length | - |
Here is another great product from Insinkerator! This is the only model that we have reviewed that has a batch feed method. It allows you to put in batches of food waste. After each batch, you turn it on, and the Evolution Pro pulverizes the waste in seconds.
It also features a powerful ¾ HP motor, which is great for midsize to large restaurants and diners. It boasts a durable stainless steel design that will last for many years to come. It features a couple of different sound masking technologies from ISE including an anti-vibration mount. It also comes with a vibration sound limiter, which reduces sound.
Customers loved that this device was quiet, with Donna from Amazon saying, ‘very quiet (at times I forget it was on).’ It also features a LeakGuard liner that will protect your plumbing from any leakage of food waste from the device. We also loved all of the small details that ISE puts into their products, including their patented SoundSeal technology.
How to Use and Install a High-Powered Disposal
With this guide, you will be able to shop confidently for your next garbage disposal system, but what do you do once you make a purchase?
In this section, we will discuss how to use and install the garbage disposal system under your sink. Most of the devices mentioned above can be installed by yourself. In some occasions, you may need to ask for assistance from a plumber or electrician.
Let’s start with how you should install your new garbage disposal unit. Some of the required tools include a hammer, screwdriver, and pipe cutting tools. Depending on the unit, you may need additional tools.
The first step is to remove the existing assembly under your sink. Next, you should insert the mounting ring into the sink and the bracket underneath. Connect these two components so you can mount the device.
Then, you will attach the tailpipe and the device itself. Depending on if your unit comes with a power cord or not, you may need to connect the wiring. If it comes with a power cord, you will simply plug it in.
The final steps are to attach the plumbing pipes to the device. This is just a brief overview of the installation. For a detailed guide, check out this do it yourself website for assistance.
Once your device is installed, you will be able to start using it. Operating a garbage disposal is very simple. If you have a continuous batch feed model, you turn on the water and the disposal and drop food waste into the sink. It will grind it up into fine pieces with ease.
If you have a batch feed model, then you will insert the food waste into the sink. Once the batch is full, you will turn on the water and the disposal. All of the food waste will be pulverized in seconds.
Other Ways of Disposing Waste
While garbage disposals are great for large volume foodservice businesses, there are other methods of disposing of waste. In the environmentally friendly wave of the future, there are ways you can use both a disposal and other methods.
Composting
One other method of waste disposal is composting. Composting can be implemented within households or businesses. It can be an excellent solution to your food waste management system.
Composting is the process of turning food waste into nutrient-rich soil fertilizer. You can use this fertilizer in your gardening practices or even donate it to farms in the area. If you own a food service establishment, you can create a compost bin. You use a system of tumblers to keep turning the food waste so that it will become fertilizer. You also add grass and leaves to keep the food waste moist and fertile.
Another fantastic thing about composting is you can use this method in combination with some garbage disposals. Thanks to the innovation in today’s society, you can attach devices to your garbage disposal that will turn the food waste into compost that is ready to use in your composting bin.
Recycling
Another popular method for dealing with the waste that comes from most food service restaurants is to recycle it. Much of the plastic waste produced in diners and cafes can be recycled, but what about the food waste?
If you do not want to implement a composting bin into your establishment, you can also donate the food waste to local plants and farms. They will use it to create animal feed, plant soil, and many other useful substances.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do commercial food waste disposers last, especially for busy restaurants?
Most commercial foodservice disposers should last at least 12 years. Many of the models that are offered on the market today come with warranties that include parts and labor. If something breaks before the warranty is up, then you can easily have it repaired.
Are kitchen waste disposers environmentally friendly?
Yes. Food disposals break down food waste into small-enough particles that they do not harm the environment or the water supply. You can also use the chopped up waste for composting and recycling.
Can these garbage disposals handle tougher foods than household models?
Yes. Commercial garbage disposals are designed to handle commercial volumes of food waste. They are generally more powerful and have a long-lasting design.
Do I need a professional plumber to install a garbage disposal unit for my coffee shop or diner?
Depending on the unit you decide to purchase; you may need the assistance of a professional. You may be able to install some units on your own, but many require assistance. We recommend hiring someone if you are unsure.
Where is the best place to buy new commercial waste disposal units?
There are many outlets online where you can purchase commercial disposal systems. We recommend Amazon for the best price.
Conclusion
Our recommendation for the top choice of commercial disposal in this round up goes to the Waste King 3000-1. We think that this unit covers all of the bases needed for a top-notch disposal system for your business. It handles food waste remarkably while still reducing noise. It is the ultimate choice for small to large food service establishments.