If you’re looking for the best disposal for your septic system, you’ll want to consider the motor and size. And whether or not it’s septic-ready. To help you shop, I’ve compiled a list of some of the best disposals for septic systems on the market.
I’ve also included all the essential information about septic tanks and waste disposal. As well as a handy buying guide to help you narrow down your options.
According to surveys, more than 21 million American households use septic systems to capture and filter their sewage. And for most Americans, having a dishwasher installed in their homes is a lifesaver.
While it may seem like an extravagance from a non-American’s perspective, having a dishwasher is considered standard in the US. This is true even in the lowest-income households.
Having a septic system means that you’re not connected to your city’s plumbing. So, if you’re worried about your system clogging up too soon, ensure you have a tank. It should be large enough to take the excess water. Moreover, having effective disposal would ease your anxieties.
Now, let’s have a look at the top disposal for septic systems available, and make your household the most waste-efficient in your neighborhood.
In a hurry? Check out my top picks!
| Image | Products | Details | Price | |
| Best Overall |  | InSinkErator Evolution Garbage Disposer | – 8 x 8 x 12.13 inches – ¾ HP – Two-stage multi grind technology – 34.6 oz. grind chamber capacity – 2800 RPM – Easy installation with quick-lock mount | Check on Amazon |
| Runner Up |  | Waste King L-8000 Garbage Disposal | – 8.5 x 8.5 x 16 inches – 1 HP – Continuous feed – Two-level pre-cutter – Lifetime limited warranty | Check on Amazon |
| Best Budget |  | GE GFC520N Disposal | – 6.7 x 6.9 x 15.1 inches – ½ HP – Continuous feed – Two-level pre-cutter – 27 oz. grind chamber capacity – 2600 RPM – Simple 3-bolt mount installation | Check on Amazon |
Here Are the Best Disposals for Septic System
Are you looking for the best septic tank disposal? I’ve compiled a list of some of the best-selling products that many homeowners recommend. These disposers are both budget-friendly and efficient, with each having its own set of pros and cons.
InSinkErator Evolution Garbage Disposer – Best Overall
Manufactured by the masters of waste efficiency, the InSinkErator Evolution Garbage Disposer might be one of the best disposals for septic systems. It could also be great compact disposal if you have limited under-sink space.
This model features a LeakGuard Liner for added durability. But what I like about this disposal is that it produces little to no noise — thanks to its noise-reducing SoundSeal Technology.
It features an innovative 3/4 hp Dura-Drive induction motor that operates at 2700 RPMs. And with its two-stage multi grind technology, expect that it can handle even the toughest food waste.
The InSinkErator disposal has a 34.6-ounce capacity which is ideal for many kitchens. Installation is also simple with its Quick Lock mount. Which is compatible with all InSinkErator models. From ordinary to premium Evolution Series versions
A fun fact: InSinkErator is one of the most popular garbage disposal brands among many American homes. And with so many models to choose from, there’s one to suit every requirement and pocket.
Pros:
• Durable construction
• Powerful motor
• Generous capacity
• Generates little to no noise
• Compact size
• Easy to install
Cons:
• Does not come with a power cord; need to be bought separately
• More expensive than other models with comparable features
Waste King L-8000 Garbage Disposal – Runner Up
The Waste King L-8000 Garbage Disposal made it on my list as a runner-up because not only is it more affordable. But it also excels in performance. Sure, it does not have all the amazing features of the InSinkErator above. But this model proves that just because something is less expensive doesn’t mean it can’t compete.
This garbage disposal is one of the most powerful from Waste King — thanks to its 1-HP VORTEX motor that spins at a blistering 2800 RPM. The system’s quick-starting engine, paired with the stainless steel impellers, helps it to effectively grind up food scraps. Which makes it perfect for use with a septic system.
Given its powerful motor, this disposal’s SoundSHIELD insulation mechanism keeps grinding food waste silently. You won’t also struggle with installation. It features EZ Mount Twist-and-Lock technology that makes installation a breeze.
Also, it’s relatively compact which makes it easy to save space. And unlike most disposal, it has a reset button on the front. The splash guard at the entry adequately conceals the disposal all while allowing easy access to do upkeep.
If you ask me what I appreciate the most about this model, it would be the lifetime warranty that comes with it. Not only is it a more budget-friendly option. But you also get a generous warranty length. This indicates that this disposal is built to last!
Pros:
• Powerful motor
• Noise-reducing insulation
• Ease of assembly
• Comes with a power cord
• Budget-friendly
• Comes with a lifetime limited warranty
Cons:
• Some users still find it rather loud
• Some users find it hard to install
GE GFC520N Disposal – Best Budget
If you’re looking for a slightly more budget-friendly option, then the GE GFC520N Disposal could be the ideal disposal for you. This model is one of Amazon’s most top-rated products because of its efficiency at an unbeatable price point.
This model boasts a ½ HP motor that operates at 2600 RPM motor which grinds quickly and finely. It features an angled fin which helps clear drains and minimizes clogs by pumping water down with more pressure. This model’s jam-resistant technology also prevents clogs and jams. The innovative DrainBoost technology keeps waste from clogging your drain.
Other features are its 2-level pre-cutter and a manual reset overload protector. As well as a cold-rolled carbon steel armature shaft.
It has 27 ounces of grinding chamber capacity, which is perfect for households with 2-4 persons. And with the provided adaptor kit, this machine is simple to set up.
Pros:
• Budget-friendly
• Powerful motor
• Angled fin minimizes clogs
• Jam-resistant technology
Cons:
• Non-corded; needs to be purchased separately
Moen GX50C Prep Series Garbage Disposal
From the leading brand of bathroom and kitchen appliances, the Moen GX50C Prep Series Garbage Disposal may be one of the best to pair with your septic system.
This model provides more grinding power than you’d expect from a 1/2-HP machine — thanks to its VORTEX motor. Which spins at a rate of 2600 RPM and is practically jam-proof. It’s also designed with SoundSHIELD technology, so you may expect a quiet operation.
But do you want to know what I find so amazing about this unit? Well, despite the power, speed, and soundproofing, it remains lightweight, portable, and attractive.
A lot of first-hand users also applaud the Moen garbage disposal for making their life easy when it comes to installation. It features a Universal Xpress Mount system fits many sink components, making it easy to replace.
Also, surprisingly from a brand that’s so well-known, this unit comes at a reasonable price point. All without sacrificing quality and efficiency.
Pros:
• Powerful motor
• Nearly jam-proof
• Quiet
• Easy to install
Cons:
• Some users find it loud
InSinkErator Garbage Disposal
Another budget-friendly option may be the InSinkErator Garbage Disposal. With a ⅓-HP motor, it transforms food scraps into septic-ready powder.
If you have limited space, you’ll appreciate the space-saving design of this model. However, it is not designed for households with a lot of food prep, so don’t cram a lot of trash into it at once.
It comes with a Quick-Lock 3-bolt sink mount which is compatible with most other 3-bolt installations. If you’re the kind who does not want to spend a lot of time and labor on installation, this could be a great option.
And unlike many other models, this InSinkErator disposal comes with a power cord. This is especially convenient because you won’t have to buy the cord separately.
Pros:
• Powerful enough to grind food scraps down the septic system
• Compact size
• Easy to install
• Comes with a power cord
Cons:
• Not suitable for a lot of food prep
Benefits of Having Septic Disposal Units
Having a septic disposal system has some benefits. In some cases, disposal with septic-ready functions has a bio-pack cartridge that deposits more breakdown microorganisms into the waste while it passes through. Such bacteria create enzymes to aid in the digestion of organic materials.
However, it’s disputed how useful the bio-packs are because the septic tank already has microorganisms to decompose the trash. Also, the bacteria don’t act on the food right away as it’s being crushed up. But septic-assist bio-packs don’t harm. In fact, they may even be beneficial.
Most bio-packs, at the very least, have a pleasant aroma. Which helps with deodorizing and may even improve your septic tank’s performance.
A Buyer’s Guide in Choosing the Best Garbage Disposal for Septic System
Before you invest in new disposal that you can use in the long term, there are a few things to think about. You should consider its size to ensure that it will fit in your space, its motor to make sure that it will meet your needs, and whether or not it is septic-ready.
To discover more, have a look at the buying guide I’ve curated below.
Motor (horsepower)
This is the first thing you should consider as the size and speed of a motor will aid in the management of waste in your septic tank. The faster the motor pulverizes food scraps, the less it will produce. I suggest you opt for a minimum of 1/2 HP or 2600 rpm for septic systems.
Size
The size of disposal you get should suit the size of your septic tank. If you have a smaller tank, you don’t want a disposal unit so big that you can’t discharge as much garbage each time. I recommend you go for a compact model that provides the same processing power without requiring a big tank.
Is It Septic-System Ready?
Always check if the model you want to consider is compatible with septic tanks. Certain models may lack septic-friendliness, so it’s not advisable to get those.
But in other circumstances, the disposal is built for a septic tank instead of regular plumbing. Which often come with a bio-pack, allowing you to have a microbe treatment each time you use it. The added microbe makes your system considerably more efficient in the long run. This is because it will disintegrate waste at a faster rate than usual.
Noise
I like quiet appliances from the fridge to the dishwasher to the garbage disposal. After all, loud disposal can frighten pets and kids. And it can make clean-up a chore. Fortunately, there are certain powerful disposals that have sound-isolating grinding chambers. Such a feature absorbs vibrations.
Continuous Vs. Batch Feed
Although many homeowners favor continuous disposals for their efficiency and convenience, a batch feed may be preferable for septic systems.
Batch feed models operate by requiring the unit to be sealed before you can use it. So, you won’t have to operate the unit each time you dump food scraps into it. This will help reduce the amount of water that goes into your septic tank. Batch feed disposal may be a great choice for small septic systems.
Waste Volume
Larger families produce a lot of waste. But the more crucial element is how much food prep or food consumption takes place in your household.
If your family produces big amounts of food waste that needs to be disposed of on a regular basis, you may consider investing in a large, robust machine. For small households, a modest unit will suffice in most cases, saving both space and resources.
Grinding Capability
How well your disposal grinds food is an important factor in choosing the best disposal for the septic system. The models on my list have rather strong grinding capabilities. They have at least 1/3-HP motor power, and most have rotation speeds of a minimum of 2600 rotations per second (RPM). Some include motors that swiftly accelerate to full speed. Which reduces the likelihood of clogs and allows food to be ground faster.
The grinding chamber’s size is also important. While small disposal can be powerful and convenient, it can still jam given a small capacity.
Installation
A straightforward installation can help save time. Even skilled plumbers can make mistakes due to complexities. So if you’re going to install it yourself, a unit with a simple installation approach that includes instruments and clear directions would be great.
Fortunately, all the products on my list are pretty simple to set up. And if you’re replacing a similar model, there’s a lot of compatibilities.
Warranty
Many garbage disposals come with a one-year warranty. This is true for either non-septic and septic-friendly disposals. It is usually a limited warranty since it only protects manufacturing issues that can be documented.
Also, it’s usually an in-home warranty. Which means you won’t have to take the unit elsewhere or spend money on services. This is because the manufacturer will cover both components and service expenses.
How To Use A Septic Garbage Disposal
Operating septic-friendly disposal isn’t all that unique from any other garbage disposals. The majority of them are continuous-feed, which means you can throw food down and grind it.
The handiest unit would be the wall switch and continuous feed combo since it lets you dispose of food waste as you need to. The debris is pushed past a splash guard on most garbage disposals. And as it grinds food waste quickly, the splash guard prevents guck from shooting upwards.
And in the event that your garbage disposal stops working, you can try pushing the reset button. If that doesn’t solve it, there are models that come with a hex key that you can use to rotate the grinding gear from the disposal’s outside base.
Running plenty of cold water from the faucet while operating your unit is a good technique to prevent jams. Likewise, you can run the tap and the garbage disposal a bit more once you see that all your food wastes are drawn.
Best Disposal for Septic System FAQs
What RPM are garbage disposals?
The term RPM refers to the number of rotations per minute. It’s a metric for determining disposal and grinding speed. Garbage disposal with a higher grinding speed is preferable because it simplifies everything. All while also minimizing clogs or jams.
Do I need special garbage disposal for a septic tank?
Septic-assisted waste disposals aren’t strictly required, given their advantages. These units may offer protection for your tank. But if you have a septic system, they aren’t necessary. Still, garbage disposal with a septic-friendly build is usually best to avoid any problems.
Can you have an InSinkErator with a septic tank?
You definitely can have an InSinkErator with a septic tank. The brand offers a Septic Assist Disposer designed exclusively for septic systems. You can also use all other InSinkErator disposers with septic systems. It can manage a disposer if your system already has a dishwasher or laundry washer.
What can you put down a garbage disposal with a septic tank?
It depends on the type of system you have in your household. Many modern and high-end garbage disposals may crush a variety of food and other necessary items that go down the drain. If you have a septic tank, I highly advise keeping food scraps away in a garbage can or compost bin.
Coffee grounds, for example, can produce a sticky paste when you brew them. Keeping such food waste away from your septic system protects your septic system and prevents clog.
What will ruin a septic system?
Lubricating oil, paint, coatings, and floor wax are all harmful to the organisms in your septic tank. These bacteria are required to keep pathogens out of your groundwater.
So instead of pouring these substances down the drain, I suggest you consult your local waste management department. They have the best guidelines for disposal.
How often should you pump your septic tank?
It’s a good idea to get your septic tank pumped and examined on a regular basis. A septic service specialist should check the average household septic system at least once every three years. Septic tanks are usually pumped between three and five years.
Can you have a dishwasher with a septic tank?
Yes, but you should not use your dishwasher with other components like a shower, washing machine, or toilet all at once. Your septic system will be put under a lot of stress as a result of all the excess water. It’s always advisable to place items that can simply be dumped in the garbage down your sink or toilet.
In Conclusion
My favorite is the InSinkErator Evolution Garbage Disposer because it’s durable with a powerful ¾ HP motor. This disposal also offers a generous grind capacity of 34.6 ounces and generates little to no noise. Aside from these awesome features, it’s also compact in size which makes it easy to install.
Another option if you want good disposal for your septic system could be the Waste King L-8000 Garbage Disposal. This unit also has a powerful motor of 1HP. Its noise-reducing insulation makes it on the runner-up spot. And it’s easy to use and very budget-friendly.
But if you want a more affordable option, then you may refer to the GE GFC520N Disposal. At an unbeatable price, you get disposal that’s equipped with a powerful ½ HP motor without breaking the bank. It also features a jam-resistant technology that helps prevent clogs.
If none of the above options interest you, then you can check out the rest of the list or review the buying guide to find your ideal septic system disposal. Make sure to check out the latest prices and discounts on these units, don’t forget to let me know how well they work for you. Good luck!
