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The most essential component in any garbage disposal purchase is power. Some home units come rates at one-half horsepower, but more modern kitchens generally start with three-quarters HP and go up from there. What you’re paying for with power is essentially the machine’s ability to pulverize stubborn bones and other hardy materials, sparing your trash compactor and giving an organic shot to the sewage. This rating is especially important if you have a septic tank, as finer-grained slurry may be required to meet code and keep your system in working order. Although more power usually translates directly into stronger pulverization, it is worth noting that that size and speed of the blades can make a significant difference as well.

Another major factor that inevitably influences homeowner decisions is the decibel level of the machine. Olden times saw garbage disposals that could easily top out well above the sound of a screaming human, but today’s models are thankfully more demure. Look for sound shielding and anti-vibration features in particular if you want to keep the noise level to a low hum, particularly if you have invested in a larger device. It may also be worth looking into ways to reinforce the cabinetry for a tighter seal around the disposal.

And speaking of cabinetry, it is essential to get a machine that can fit comfortably where it belongs. Be careful to leave room for pipes, hoses and electrical connections, as these can quickly fill up that valuable real estate beneath your sink. Even if you have sufficient room for a monster machine, it may not be worth getting something bigger than you need – 25 to 40 ounces in the grind chamber is plenty for most homes. Indeed, anything more could tax your sewage system more than it was designed to handle, creating potential leaks and obstructions in the walls of your home.

Once you have the size and power rating selected, you want to look at speed. Along with power, the revolutions per minute (rpm) of the blades are definitive when it comes to grinding ability. Although 1400 rpm may be good enough for fruit and veggies, you will most likely need to upgrade to a faster induction motor for stubborn foodstuffs such as bones, coffee grounds and seeds. Some of the top units reach speeds of 1800 rpm, affording your kitchen something like an all-purpose liquefier for every material you use.

Finally it is important to consider the amount of energy you can expect to invest on a monthly basis. This rating impacts your bills and the environment in equal measure, so it may be worth doing some comparison shopping to ensure you have bought a more efficient machine. Simple features such as reversible blades can help clear obstructions in a hurry, saving you the frustration of drawing tremendous current without actually getting anywhere. One final concern for homeowners trying to live green – larger grind chambers usually require more running water to keep the walls clean and free of odors, so a smaller unit may suit your principles better.

Once you understand the different parts and ratings associated with a garbage disposal, you should be able to buy an appropriate choice. Stick with continuous feed models, ideally those with an air switch, if you want to protect your family’s safety well into the future. And be sure that power source comes with a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI). Often by visiting a home wares store and “kicking the tires” on several models, you can get a better sense of which operation type suits you best.