Ever wonder what makes your garbage disposal system tick? It’s not just the powerful motor that grinds up food waste; it’s also the unsung hero: the plumbing. Having the best plumbing for garbage disposal ensures a smooth, leak-free, and efficient kitchen clean-up experience. Whether you’re installing a new unit, replacing an old one, or just upgrading your setup, choosing the right components is crucial.
Finding the perfect parts can feel like a maze, but don’t worry! We’ve done the legwork for you. In this guide, we’ll dive into some of the top garbage disposal and plumbing kits available, helping you make an informed decision for a hassle-free kitchen.
Understanding Your Garbage Disposal Plumbing Needs
Before we jump into the reviews, let’s briefly touch on what makes for good garbage disposal plumbing. You’ll typically need a sturdy drain elbow, a P-trap to prevent sewer gases, and potentially additional pipes and connectors, especially for double-bowl sinks. Durability, ease of installation, and a leak-proof design are key considerations. Now, let’s explore some of the best plumbing for garbage disposal options on the market.
Our Top Picks for Garbage Disposal Plumbing
1. InSinkErator Badger 5 Garbage Disposal, Standard Series 1/2…
The InSinkErator Badger 5 is a staple in many kitchens, and for good reason. It’s a fantastic choice for those seeking a reliable and functional disposal unit without breaking the bank. Its compact design is a real space-saver under the sink and fits seamlessly with existing InSinkErator hardware, making installation a breeze for anyone looking for straightforward garbage disposal installation.
- Key Features:
- Reliable 1/2 hp Dura-Drive Induction Motor
- Long-lasting galvanized steel components
- Compact, space-saving design
- Easy to install with existing InSinkErator hardware
- America’s leading disposer brand with a history of innovation
- Voltage: 120 V
- Pros:
- Excellent balance of affordability and reliability
- Trusted brand with a long-standing reputation
- Simple installation for replacements
- Durable components for everyday use
- Cons:
- 1/2 HP might struggle with very tough food scraps
- Galvanized steel components can be less corrosion-resistant than stainless steel over time
- Does not include external plumbing kit
- User Impressions: Customers often praise the Badger 5 for its dependable performance and value. Many highlight its ease of replacement for older InSinkErator models and its quiet operation for a budget-friendly unit. It’s a solid choice for basic kitchen needs.
- See it on Amazon here
2. COLDDD Garbage Disposal Drain Kit, Elbow Replacement,…
Sometimes, you don’t need a whole new disposal, just the right sink disposal components to fix a leak or upgrade your drain system. The COLDDD Garbage Disposal Drain Kit is a lifesaver in such situations. It’s a comprehensive elbow replacement kit designed for durability and easy, tool-free installation, making it perfect for both single and double sink setups.
- Key Features:
- Complete kit: elbow, flange, rubber gasket, screws, extendable drain pipes
- Made of durable PVC plastic
- Rubber gaskets and rotating locknuts for leak-proof connections
- Hand-tighten installation – no special tools required
- 1-1/2″ pipe diameter, adjustable length (8-22 inches)
- Compatible with double sink drain designs and overflow pipes
- Pros:
- All-in-one solution for common drain elbow issues
- Very easy and quick DIY installation
- Prevents leaks effectively with sturdy connections
- Versatile for single or double sinks
- Cons:
- PVC plastic may not appeal to those seeking metal components
- Specific 1-1/2″ pipe diameter might not fit all niche setups
- User Impressions: Reviewers love how straightforward this kit is to install, often mentioning that it solved their persistent drain leaks quickly. Its robust construction and flexibility for double sinks are frequently highlighted as major benefits.
- See it on Amazon here
3. InSinkErator Badger 5 Garbage Disposal with Power Cord,…
This version of the InSinkErator Badger 5 offers the same reliable performance as its sibling but comes with the added convenience of a pre-attached power cord. This makes it an even simpler choice for those installing a new disposal or replacing one where a cord isn’t present, ensuring a quicker, more direct garbage disposal setup.
- Key Features:
- Exclusive 1/2 hp Dura-Drive Induction Motor
- Durable galvanized steel components
- Compact, space-saving design
- Fits existing InSinkErator hardware for easy install
- Pre-attached power cord for convenience
- Invented garbage disposals in 1927
- Pros:
- Reliable and functional choice for affordability
- Pre-installed power cord simplifies electrical hookup
- Compact design saves precious under-sink space
- Backed by a trusted brand’s history and innovation
- Cons:
- Still 1/2 HP, limiting grinding power for very tough waste
- Galvanized steel is not as premium as stainless steel
- Doesn’t include the drain plumbing kit itself
- User Impressions: Users appreciate the Badger 5 with the power cord for its ‘plug-and-play’ nature. It’s often cited as a perfect, no-fuss replacement unit that offers solid, everyday performance for routine kitchen waste.
- See it on Amazon here
4. Mr. Scrappy Garbage Disposal Drain Elbow Replacement Kit -…
Sometimes, all you need is a simple, direct replacement for a worn-out or leaking drain elbow. The Mr. Scrappy kit focuses purely on this essential component. It’s a no-frills, durable solution designed to get your garbage disposal draining correctly again without needing a full kitchen sink plumbing kit.
- Key Features:
- Replacement 1-1/2″ Diameter Drain Elbow
- Includes elbow, flange, rubber gasket, and two screws
- Made of durable PVC plastic
- Pros:
- Simple and direct replacement for common elbow issues
- Affordable and effective
- Durable PVC construction
- Cons:
- Very basic kit, doesn’t include any other plumbing components
- Limited to 1-1/2″ diameter
- User Impressions: Customers find the Mr. Scrappy kit to be an easy and effective fix for a leaking elbow. Its simplicity and inclusion of all necessary small parts are frequently mentioned as advantages for quick repairs.
- See it on Amazon here
5. PlumbCraft 1.5-in. OD White Complete Garbage Disposal…
For those undertaking a new installation or a complete overhaul, the PlumbCraft Garbage Disposal Installation Kit is an excellent DIY solution. It provides a comprehensive set of components needed to connect your disposal to both waste and water lines, making it one of the best plumbing for garbage disposal full kits. Its flexible pieces can even be cut to fit your specific setup.
- Key Features:
- Complete kitchen sink plumbing kit for 1.5-in. OD pipes
- Compatible with plastic drain or chrome-plated brass systems
- Includes flanged tailpieces, slip joint drain arm, slip joint end outlet tee, 90-degree elbow, rubber connection boot, drain trap, and washers
- Plastic components can be cut to fit
- Flexible for wall, water supply, and drain connections
- Pros:
- Comprehensive kit for a full installation
- Versatile for various existing drain systems
- Customizable length with cut-to-fit pieces
- Includes a P-trap for odor prevention
- Cons:
- All plastic construction might not be preferred by all
- Requires careful measuring if cutting is needed
- Specific to 1.5-inch OD pipes
- User Impressions: DIY enthusiasts appreciate this kit for its completeness and adaptability. Many reviewers highlight its flexible design, which helped them navigate tricky under-sink configurations, making complex plumbing tasks much simpler.
- See it on Amazon here
6. Saillong 27 Pcs Garbage Disposal Installation Kit Complete…
If you have a double-bowl sink and need a truly comprehensive solution for your under sink plumbing, the Saillong 27 Pcs kit might be exactly what you’re looking for. This extensive kit is engineered for seamless, leak-proof double sink plumbing, ensuring a smooth, clog-free water flow with extra stability features.
- Key Features:
- Complete 27-piece under sink plumbing kit
- Tailored for double-bowl sink plumbing and 1-1/2″ O.D. pipes
- Includes flanged tailpiece, slip joint drain arm, end outlet tee, 90-degree elbow, wall drain trap, rubber connection boot, hose clamps, and more
- Leak-proof design with rubber seals, rotating locknuts, and durable washers
- Tool-free assembly with hand-tighten connections
- Includes 3 extra hose clamps for enhanced stability
- Pros:
- Extremely comprehensive kit for complex setups
- Designed specifically for double sinks
- Ensures a leak-proof connection with multiple seals and clamps
- Tool-free installation for a stress-free experience
- High-quality materials for long-lasting performance
- Cons:
- Might be more than necessary for a single sink setup
- The sheer number of pieces could be intimidating for some users
- Specific to 1-1/2″ O.D. pipes
- User Impressions: Users with double sinks rave about the completeness and quality of this kit. The extra hose clamps are a frequently praised feature for added security, and the leak-free promise holds true for many who’ve installed it.
- See it on Amazon here
7. Garbage Disposal Installation Kit, Complete Kitchen Sink…
This generic yet highly functional garbage disposal installation kit offers a flexible and durable solution, particularly for double-bowl sink drainage systems. Crafted from reinforced PP material, it promises exceptional durability and corrosion protection, making it a robust choice for any homeowner looking to upgrade their kitchen’s drainage systems.
- Key Features:
- Engineered for double-bowl sink drainage systems
- Adapts to most wall-mounted sink configurations
- Crafted from reinforced PP material for durability, heat, and corrosion resistance
- Compatible with 1-1/2″ outer diameter pipes
- Includes essential components: flanges, sealing rings, P-traps, etc.
- Tool-free assembly with detailed instructions
- Pros:
- Highly durable and resistant to common kitchen wear and tear
- Flexible design accommodates various sink configurations
- Includes all essential components for a complete install
- Tool-free installation for user convenience
- Cons:
- Generic branding might lack the reputation of established manufacturers
- Component list is a bit vague (“etc.”)
- Primarily aimed at double-bowl sinks
- User Impressions: Customers appreciate this kit for its sturdy construction and ease of installation. Many note that it’s a great value for money, providing a reliable and leak-free solution for their double sink disposal plumbing without requiring specialized tools.
- See it on Amazon here
Frequently Asked Questions About Garbage Disposal Plumbing
Q: What’s typically included in a basic garbage disposal plumbing kit?
A: A basic kit usually includes the drain elbow (the curved pipe connecting the disposal to the main drain), a flange, gaskets, screws, and sometimes a tailpiece. More comprehensive kits might also include a P-trap, slip joint nuts, and additional pipe sections for double sinks or specific wall configurations.
Q: Can I install garbage disposal plumbing myself, or do I need a plumber?
A: Many basic garbage disposal plumbing installations and replacements are designed for DIYers. Kits often come with clear instructions and feature hand-tighten connections, eliminating the need for special tools. However, if you’re uncomfortable with plumbing, dealing with leaks, or if your setup requires significant modifications, calling a professional plumber is always a good idea.
Q: What type of pipe is best for garbage disposal plumbing?
A: Most residential garbage disposal plumbing uses PVC plastic, which is durable, corrosion-resistant, and easy to work with for DIY installations. Some higher-end or older systems might use chrome-plated brass. Both are acceptable, but PVC is generally more common and cost-effective.
Q: How do I prevent leaks in my garbage disposal plumbing?
A: The key to preventing leaks is ensuring all connections are tight and that gaskets and washers are properly seated. Using plumber’s putty around the sink flange, hand-tightening slip nuts firmly (without overtightening plastic components), and regularly checking for cracks or wear in pipes can significantly reduce the risk of leaks.
Q: What’s the difference between single and double sink disposal plumbing?
A: For a single sink, the disposal usually connects directly to the P-trap, which then goes to the wall drain. For a double sink, the plumbing is more complex. The disposal often connects to a tailpiece or an end outlet tee, which then merges with the drain from the non-disposal side of the sink, before connecting to a single P-trap and the wall drain. Double sink kits provide the necessary additional components to combine these two drains efficiently.
Q: When should I replace my garbage disposal plumbing components?
A: You should consider replacing plumbing components if you notice persistent leaks, visible cracks or corrosion, or if the existing parts are old and brittle. Often, when installing a new garbage disposal, it’s a good practice to replace the immediate drain plumbing (elbow, P-trap) to ensure a fresh, leak-free connection, especially if the old parts are showing signs of wear.
Q: Are there any specific tools required for plumbing a garbage disposal?
A: For most DIY kits, the primary tools needed are usually a screwdriver (for the disposal’s mounting screws), a wrench (adjustable or basin wrench if dealing with existing plumbing), and potentially a hacksaw or PVC cutter if you need to shorten plastic pipes. Many modern kits are designed for “tool-free” or “hand-tighten” assembly for much of the drain plumbing.
Conclusion
Choosing the best plumbing for garbage disposal doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you need a brand-new disposal unit like the reliable InSinkErator Badger 5 or a comprehensive kit for a double sink like the Saillong 27 Pcs kit, there’s a solution out there to fit your needs. By focusing on durability, ease of installation, and ensuring a leak-proof design, you’ll set yourself up for years of smooth, efficient kitchen clean-up. Don’t let a leaky drain get you down – invest in quality plumbing and enjoy a hassle-free kitchen!