We’ve all been there, standing over the kitchen sink with an array of food scraps, a pile of dishes, and limited space under your sink. You know what you need? A compact garbage disposal.
It’s no longer just a luxury; it’s a necessity, especially for those who have smaller kitchen spaces.
The best short, small, or compact garbage disposals can be your kitchen’s unsung hero, making your life simpler and more convenient.
Looking for the best garbage disposal that fits snugly into that tiny space under your sink? You’re in the right place! This comprehensive guide will walk you through the top picks available on the market, taking the guesswork out of purchasing a compact garbage disposal. Whether it’s the InSinkErator Evolution Compact or the Waste King L-1001, we have them all covered!
How to Choose the Right Compact Garbage Disposal
The challenge of choosing the right compact garbage disposal isn’t as daunting as it may seem. First, consider the size of your kitchen sink and the space available underneath it.
Think about the kind of food waste you usually have. Do you need to grind tough food items or small bones? Then, look at factors such as horsepower, RPM, and steel construction.
The disposal’s size should align with your kitchen’s needs. Don’t overlook aspects like the grinding system, motor speed, and corrosion-resistant features. After all, a small garbage disposal can still pack a punch if chosen wisely.
Let’s delve into the more specific pros and cons to understand what makes the best short, compact size garbage disposals the right choice for you.
Pros and Cons of Short and Compact Garbage Disposals
When it comes to compact garbage disposals, size is an essential factor, but it’s not the only thing to consider. Understanding the benefits and drawbacks of these smaller units can help you make an informed decision.
Pros of a Compact Garbage Disposal
Compact garbage disposals are designed with modern, small kitchens in mind. They provide a convenient way to dispose of food waste without taking up too much space under your sink.
- Space Savers: Fits snugly even in tiny kitchen cabinets.
- Efficient Grinding: Despite their compact size, they have efficient grinding systems.
- Easy Installation: Usually more straightforward to install, even for the novice DIYer.
- Cost-Effective: Generally more affordable than their larger counterparts.
- Environmentally Friendly: Helps reduce food waste going to landfills.
Cons of a Compact Garbage Disposal
Though compact garbage disposal might be an excellent choice for many kitchens, it’s worth acknowledging that they have some limitations:
- Limited Power: The motor that runs in compact units may not be as powerful as larger models, affecting the grinding of tougher food items.
- Smaller Grinding Chamber: The grinding chamber is made smaller, so it may not handle a large amount of waste at a time.
- Potential for More Jams: If not used correctly, these disposals might jam more easily than larger units.
Best Short, Small, or Compact Garbage Disposals
Looking for the best short, compact-size garbage disposal for your kitchen sink? Here’s a quick list of our top picks, some of the best garbage disposals on the market, perfect for the limited space under your sink.
- InSinkErator Evolution Compact – Best Quality
- InSinkErator Badger 1 – Most Compact
- InSinkErator Badger 5
- Waste King L-1001
- WasteKing L-111
- InSinkErator Evolution Excel
- WasteMaid 58 Economy
Each of these models has its unique features and specifications. Let’s dive into the details.
1. InSinkErator Evolution Compact – Best Quality
The InSinkErator Evolution Compact stands out as a higher-end option among compact garbage disposals. With advanced features and robust performance, it’s one of the best garbage disposals for those who need more from a compact unit.
What sets the Evolution Compact apart is its SoundSeal technology which helps reduce noise and MultiGrind technology, allowing it to grind tough food items like small bones.
The 3/4 horsepower motor that runs at a speed of 1725 RPM ensures that this disposal unit is an excellent choice for a wide variety of kitchens.
The stainless steel construction of the grinding chamber, along with its continuous feed type, make the Evolution Compact model a top-notch choice.
Though slightly more expensive than some other compact models, its features justify the cost, and it comes with a 3-year warranty for peace of mind.
| Feature | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Width | 8.75 inches |
| Height | 12.25 inches |
| Motor Speed | 1725 RPM |
| Horsepower | 3/4 HP |
2. InSinkErator Badger 1 – Most Compact
The InSinkErator Badger 1 is one of the smallest garbage disposals on the market. It’s designed with efficiency in mind, perfect for those who have deep sinks but limited space underneath.
Despite being small in size, the Badger 1 doesn’t compromise on performance. It runs at 1725 rpm and uses a durable, dual-drive induction motor.
Though it doesn’t come with any fancy features, its galvanized steel construction ensures it lasts for years without corrosion.
Installation is a breeze with the Badger 1, and its compact size makes it an excellent choice for smaller kitchens.
With a height of 11.5 inches and a durable build, it’s easy to see why this compact model is a favorite among homeowners.
| Feature | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Width | 6.3 inches |
| Height | 11.5 inches |
| Motor Speed | 1725 RPM |
| Horsepower | 1/3 HP |
3. InSinkErator Badger 5
Following the success of the Badger 1, the InSinkErator Badger 5 is another compact garbage disposal that earns its place among the top picks. Made by InSinkErator, a leader in the industry, it’s designed with small kitchens in mind.
The Badger 5 features a 1/2 horsepower motor that runs at 1725 RPM, making it suitable for most types of food waste.
Made of galvanized steel, it offers a reliable and efficient grinding system. Although it doesn’t come with any fancy technologies like sound insulation, its performance is commendable.
With its low profile and ease of installation, the Badger 5 is an excellent choice for those seeking efficiency without breaking the bank.
Its high-quality construction ensures durability, and its continuous feed type allows for convenient disposal of food scraps.
| Feature | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Width | 6.3 inches |
| Height | 11.5 inches |
| Motor Speed | 1725 RPM |
| Horsepower | 1/2 HP |
4. Waste King L-1001
Waste King is known for producing reliable and efficient garbage disposals, and the L-1001 model is no exception. It’s an affordable option for those who need a compact and functional unit.
The Waste King L-1001 garbage disposal runs at 2600 RPM, powered by a 1/2 horsepower permanent magnet motor.
Its continuous feed type and easy-to-install design make it a favorite among homeowners looking for a quick upgrade. Though small in size, its corrosion-resistant, galvanized steel construction ensures it will last.
With a height of 12.75 inches and the ability to grind common food items, including small bones, it’s an excellent choice for most kitchens.
It doesn’t come with any fancy features, but its efficiency and price make it one of the best short and compact garbage disposals on the market.
| Feature | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Width | 5.25 inches |
| Height | 12.75 inches |
| Motor Speed | 2600 RPM |
| Horsepower | 1/2 HP |
5. Waste King L-111
The Waste King L-111 is a smaller and less powerful version of the L-1001, making it an even more compact choice for tiny kitchens.
This model uses a 1/3 horsepower motor that runs at 1900 RPM. The continuous feed type and galvanized steel grinding components provide a practical solution for disposing of food waste.
The compact size and torque master grinding system make it a top pick for those with limited space under the sink.
Simple and efficient, the L-111 doesn’t compromise on quality. Its galvanized steel construction ensures durability, and the disposal is made easy to install.
It’s ideal for those who don’t need a high-powered unit but still want reliability.
| Feature | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Width | 5.25 inches |
| Height | 12.75 inches tall |
| Motor Speed | 1900 RPM |
| Horsepower | 1/3 HP |
6. InSinkErator Evolution Excel
InSinkErator’s Evolution Excel is for those looking for a compact garbage disposal without sacrificing advanced features.
The Excel is equipped with a robust 1 HP motor that runs at 1725 RPM, making it powerful enough to grind tough food waste.
It’s one of the quietest garbage disposals, thanks to SoundSeal technology, and its continuous feed garbage disposal design makes it user-friendly.
This model comes with a 7-year warranty, reflecting its high quality. Though not the smallest garbage disposal, its size is still compact, fitting well in most under-sink spaces.
Stainless steel construction and three-stage grinding process put it among the best garbage disposals.
| Feature | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Width | 9 inches |
| Height | 13 inches |
| Motor Speed | 1725 RPM |
| Horsepower | 1 HP |
7. WasteMaid 58 Economy
WasteMaid offers an affordable yet practical solution for small kitchens with the 58 Economy model. Designed for simplicity and ease of use, it’s a great fit for budget-conscious households.
The 58 Economy model uses a 1/2 horsepower motor that runs at 2600 RPM, providing efficient grinding of most food items.
Made of high-quality galvanized steel and utilizing the Torque Master grinding system, this disposal unit is corrosion-resistant and robust.
Though it doesn’t come with any fancy features, its continuous feed type and easy installation process make it an appealing option.
Backed by a two-year warranty, this disposal is an excellent choice for those looking for basic functionality without compromising on quality.
| Feature | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Width | 5.2 inches wide |
| Height | 13.9 inches |
| Motor Speed | 2600 RPM |
| Horsepower | 1/2 HP |
Factors to Consider When Buying a Short, Small, or Compact Garbage Disposal
When purchasing a compact garbage disposal, consider the space under your sink, motor speed, grinding system, construction materials, and installation requirements.
Motor Power (RPM and Horsepower)
Motor power, measured in RPM (Revolutions Per Minute) and horsepower, is a vital factor in choosing a garbage disposal.
A higher RPM and horsepower indicate more grinding power, enabling the disposal to handle tougher food waste.
Compact garbage disposals like Waste King L-1001, running at 2600 RPM, offer strong performance.
However, higher horsepower may not always be necessary for every kitchen. For smaller households or those who don’t cook frequently, a 1/3 horsepower motor running at 1725 RPM can be more than adequate.
Selecting the right motor power helps in achieving the perfect balance between efficiency and energy consumption.
Size and Dimensions
The size and dimensions of garbage disposal must be considered, especially when dealing with limited space under your sink.
Compact garbage disposals are designed to fit into smaller spaces without compromising functionality. Models like InSinkErator Evolution Compact are perfect examples of compact size without sacrificing power.
Paying attention to the width, height, and overall size ensures that the unit fits well within the kitchen’s constraints.
Always check the spec sheet and measure the space under your sink to ensure a perfect fit. Remember, the smallest garbage disposal may not be the best choice for your specific needs.
Materials (Stainless steel, Galvanized steel, etc.)
The materials used in a garbage disposal’s construction determine its durability and corrosion resistance.
Stainless steel construction, as seen in many top picks like InSinkErator models, is known for its longevity and resistance to rust.
Galvanized steel is also a common material offering robust performance.
Choosing disposal made of high-quality materials ensures that it can handle continuous feed of tough food items for years without corroding or wearing out.
Materials like stainless steel also contribute to noise reduction, making for a quieter kitchen experience.
Type of Feed (Continuous or Batch)
Garbage disposals come in two primary types: continuous feed and batch feed. Continuous feed models, such as Waste King L-1001, allow you to keep adding waste as the unit runs. They are generally more convenient but may pose a safety risk if not handled with care.
Batch feed models, on the other hand, require you to load the waste and then activate the disposal. This type provides more control and safety but might be less convenient for large cooking sessions.
Understanding your kitchen habits will guide you in choosing the right feed type for your needs.
Warranty and Brand Reputation
Warranty and brand reputation are significant indicators of a product’s quality and the manufacturer’s confidence in it.
Leading brands like InSinkErator often provide longer warranties and are known for reliable customer service. Their models like the Evolution Compact come with extensive warranty coverage, reflecting the product’s quality.
On the other hand, more budget-friendly options might offer shorter warranties. While they may still be an excellent choice for many users, understanding the warranty terms and researching the brand’s reputation ensures that you’re making an informed decision.
Trusting a well-respected brand often leads to a more satisfying purchase experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Small Garbage Disposals as Powerful as Larger Models?
Compact garbage disposals are designed to fit smaller spaces and are generally less powerful than their larger counterparts. However, models like the InSinkErator Evolution Compact and Waste King L-1001 offer robust performance, handling most typical food waste.
Can You Install a Compact Garbage Disposal Yourself?
Many compact garbage disposals are made for easy installation, especially with models that use a 3-bolt assembly. With proper tools and a handy guide, most homeowners can install a garbage disposal themselves. However, professional installation might be necessary for complex setups.
How Many Horsepowers Do Compact Garbage Disposals Have?
Most compact garbage disposals run between 1/3 and 1 HP. High-end models like the InSinkErator Evolution Excel can reach up to 1 HP, providing substantial grinding power in a compact size.
What’s the Cost of Compact Garbage Disposals?
Prices vary from around $50 for basic models to over $300 for premium ones. The cost reflects features, materials (such as stainless steel construction), and brand reputation.
Are Small Garbage Disposals Noisy?
All garbage disposals vary in noise levels. Models with SoundSeal technology like the InSinkErator Evolution Compact are among the quietest, while more economical models may be louder.
Final Words
When it comes to selecting the best short or compact garbage disposal for your kitchen sink you have to consider factors like size, power, features, and budget.
Whether you need a powerhouse like the InSinkErator Evolution Excel or a budget-friendly option like the Waste Maid 58 Economy, there’s a short garbage disposal to suit your needs.
Always check the spec sheet and consult with a professional if needed, to ensure the perfect fit for the space under your sink.