In our modern kitchens, efficiency and convenience are paramount, and one appliance that epitomizes both is the insinkerator (also known as a sink garbage disposal). Installing an insinkerator in your home can significantly enhance your kitchen’s functionality, streamline meal preparation and cleanup, and even contribute to a more sustainable household overall. We commonly get asked the question of whether an InSinkErator is worth installing, so that is why our Melbourne plumbers here at The Local Plumber have compiled the following guide to help you make this decision.
What is an InSinkErator?
An InSinkErator, commonly known as a garbage disposal, is a device installed under the kitchen sink. It grinds food waste into small particles that are then flushed through the plumbing system. This innovative kitchen appliance is designed to handle everyday food scraps produced during cooking and cleaning dishes.
What Are The Advantages of Installing an InSinkErator
1. Convenience
The main benefit of having an InSinkErator is the sheer convenience it offers for everyday use. Disposing of food waste becomes as simple as turning on a switch. No longer will you have to deal with scraping food into the bin or worrying about the garbage bag tearing and spilling. An insinkerator streamlines kitchen duties, saving both time and effort.
2. Enhanced Kitchen Hygiene
With an insinkerator, food waste is dealt with immediately, significantly reducing the chances of attracting pests like rodents and insects, which are drawn to food scraps in your trash can. This instant disposal also helps minimize unpleasant odors in the kitchen, as old food isn’t left sitting in a garbage can, festering and smelling.
3. Reduced Household Waste
Food waste comprises a large portion of household waste. By grinding up food scraps and flushing them away, an insinkerator helps reduce the amount of waste that ends up in the trash. This not only means fewer trips to take out the garbage but also less waste sent to landfills, where organic matter can generate methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
4. Improved Plumbing Health
While it may seem counterintuitive, using an insinkerator can actually help maintain your plumbing’s health – if installed correctly!. By finely grinding food scraps, an insinkerator can actually minimise the risk of blocked drains which can occur from washing down unprocessed food waste. It’s important, however, to use plenty of water while the unit is running and avoid disposing of certain hard or fibrous materials to prevent blockages.
5. Cost-Effectiveness
Although there is an upfront cost associated with purchasing and installing an insinkerator, it can be a cost-effective investment in the long run. Reducing the amount of garbage means fewer trash bags.. Additionally, the efficient disposal can help avoid costly plumbing repairs from clogged pipes.
6. Environmental Impact
By diverting food waste from landfills and reducing methane emissions, insinkerators contribute positively to environmental conservation. Moreover, processed waste water can be treated and repurposed, adding to the environmental benefits.
What Are The Disadvantages of Installing an InSinkErator
While InSinkErator garbage disposals offer convenience in kitchen waste management, they come with several disadvantages.
- Potential for Clogs and Damage: Improper use or disposal of non-biodegradable items can cause clogs and damage to plumbing systems, resulting in costly repairs.
- Noise: Can be noisy during operation, which may be disruptive in some households.
- Maintenance Requirements: Requires regular maintenance to prevent odors and ensure efficient operation.
- Compatibility Issues: May not be suitable for older plumbing systems, potentially leading to installation challenges and additional expenses.
How To Choose The Right Insinkerator?
When selecting an insinkerator model, consider the following factors:
- Power: Units come in various horsepower ratings. A more powerful motor can handle a larger quantity and a broader variety of food scraps.
- Capacity: Choose a model with a grinding chamber that accommodates your household’s needs.
- Noise: Some models are equipped with sound-sealing technologies to reduce noise during operation.
- Ease of Installation: While many insinkerators are designed for DIY installation, consulting with a professional like The Local Plumber Melbourne ensures that it is done correctly, safely, and up to code.
If you are unsure as to what brand is best suited for your household, feel free to give us a call for a free consultation over the phone. We’ll happily point you in the right direction
What Items Can’t I Put Down An InSinkErator?
When using an InSinkErator, it’s important to avoid disposing of certain items that can damage the unit or clog your plumbing. Here’s a list of items you should not put down your garbage disposal:
- Bones and fruit pits: Can blunt or break the disposal’s blades.
- Fibrous materials: Items like celery stalks, corn husks, and onion skins can tangle around the blades and jam the motor.
- Cooking oils and grease: Can solidify in the pipes, causing blockages.
- Coffee grounds: Tend to accumulate in pipes, leading to sediment buildup.
- Non-food items: Plastic, paper towels, glass, and metal should never be put down the disposal as they can cause severe damage to the system.
InSinkErator Installation and Maintenance
Professional installation is recommended to ensure that the insinkerator is integrated properly into your existing plumbing system. Regular maintenance, primarily routine cleaning and avoiding non-disposable items, will prolong the life and efficiency of the unit. Our plumbers can install any InSinkErator unit and will teach you how to maintain it and use it correctly.
Melbourne’s Leading InSinkErator Installation
The benefits of installing an insinkerator in your Melbourne home are clear. From convenience to environmental impact, the advantages extend beyond just getting rid of kitchen waste efficiently. If you’re considering an insinkerator, contact The Local Plumber Melbourne for expert advice and professional installation services. Our experienced plumbers are ready to help you enhance your kitchen’s functionality and contribute to a greener planet. As well as insinkerator installation, our plumbers have proudly been servicing Melbourne for over 15 years and we specialisse in a wide variety of repairs including emergency plumbing services, hot water repairs and many more. Contact us today for same day services and a lifetime warranty on all workmanship that we carry out within your house.