Waste King Garbage Disposal: Review & Best Models

Waste King garbage disposals represent a pivotal appliance for modern kitchens. Featuring a high-speed motor, Waste King models efficiently grind food scraps. The brand is known for its EZ mount system, that simplifies installation. Compared to the competitor like Insinkerator, Waste King units are praised for offering robust performance and are generally more affordable.

Hey there, kitchen warriors! Let’s talk about a true legend in the world of waste management – Waste King. These guys aren’t new to the game; they’ve been grinding (pun intended!) their way to the top of the garbage disposal market for years, building a rock-solid reputation for reliability and performance. So, what makes them so special?

Well, allow me to introduce you to the Waste King Legend Series. Think of it as the superhero squad of garbage disposals, ready to tackle even the toughest food scraps with ease. They’re efficient, they’re dependable, and they’re here to change the way you think about kitchen cleanup. Trust me, they are that good, not like any other average Joe disposal out there.

Now, you might be wondering, “Why even bother with a garbage disposal?” Great question! Imagine a world with less smelly trash, fewer trips to the overflowing dumpster, and a significant reduction in the amount of waste headed to landfills. Sounds pretty good, right? Garbage disposals make it happen. They’re the unsung heroes of the kitchen, quietly working behind the scenes to make your life easier and greener.

But, what sets the Waste King Legend Series apart from the competition? It’s a combination of things, really. They’re known for their affordable price point (more money for that fancy espresso machine!), their powerful motor technology (built to last), and their impressive warranties that give you peace of mind. Other brands might offer similar features, but Waste King often comes out on top in terms of value and dependability.

Decoding the Components: Anatomy of a Waste King Legend Disposal

Ever wonder what really makes your Waste King Legend garbage disposal tick? It’s more than just a metal box under your sink! It’s a carefully engineered machine with various parts working together to conquer your kitchen scraps. Let’s dive in and explore the inner workings of these waste-annihilating wonders.

The Powerhouse: Horsepower Options Demystified

• Motor: The Powerhouse

  At the heart of your Waste King Legend lies the motor, the undisputed powerhouse. You’ll find these disposals offered with different horsepower (HP) options: 1/3 HP, 1/2 HP, 3/4 HP, and even a full 1 HP. But what does all this mean? Think of it like this:

  • 1/3 HP: Perfect for smaller households with light food waste. Think a couple or a single person who doesn’t cook elaborate meals every night.
  • 1/2 HP: The sweet spot for most families. It can handle a good amount of daily food scraps without breaking a sweat.
  • 3/4 HP & 1 HP: These are the heavy-duty disposals, ideal for large families or those who do a lot of cooking and generate a significant amount of food waste.

  Waste King Legend disposals typically use induction motors, which are known for their reliability and quiet operation. Induction motors are workhorses, designed to last for years with minimal maintenance.

Where the Magic Happens: The Grind Chamber

• Grind Chamber: Where the Magic Happens

  This is where the food waste meets its fate! The grind chamber of a Waste King Legend is typically made of either stainless steel or a durable, reinforced polymer. Stainless steel is your best bet because it is known for its corrosion resistance, which is super important since it’s constantly exposed to water and food particles. A corrosion-resistant chamber ensures your disposal lasts longer and doesn’t become a rusty mess.

The Grinding Force: Grind Ring/Impellers

• Grind Ring/Impellers: The Grinding Force

  These are the unsung heroes of the disposal world. The grind ring and impellers are responsible for pulverizing your food waste into tiny particles that can safely flow down your drain. Waste King uses specially designed impellers, often made of stainless steel, that efficiently break down food without dulling easily. Some models might even feature advanced grinding technologies for enhanced performance.

Secure and Stable: Mounting System

• Mounting System: Secure and Stable

  A solid mounting system is crucial for a garbage disposal. Waste King Legend disposals typically come with two mounting options: the EZ Mount and the 3-Bolt Mount.

  • EZ Mount: This is designed for quick and easy installation, especially if you’re replacing an existing Waste King disposal.
  • 3-Bolt Mount: This is known for being a sturdier and more secure option, but it can be a bit more involved to install.

Containing the Mess: Splash Guard

• Splash Guard: Containing the Mess

  Nobody wants food particles flying out of the disposal while it’s running. That’s where the splash guard comes in. Made of a flexible material like rubber or heavy-duty plastic, the splash guard keeps the mess contained while still allowing you to easily feed in food scraps. Some are even removable for easy cleaning.

Quieter Operation: Sound Insulation

• Sound Insulation: Quieter Operation

  Garbage disposals have a reputation for being noisy. Waste King Legend disposals feature sound insulation to minimize the racket. This insulation is usually made of sound-dampening materials that absorb vibrations and reduce noise levels, making your kitchen a more peaceful place.

Preventing Damage: Overload Protection

• Overload Protection: Preventing Damage

  Ever accidentally tried to grind something too tough for your disposal? That’s where overload protection comes in. This handy feature automatically shuts off the motor if it detects too much resistance, preventing it from burning out. It’s like a built-in safety net for your disposal.

Quick Recovery: Reset Button

• Reset Button: Quick Recovery

  If your disposal does happen to overload, don’t panic! Look for the reset button, usually located on the bottom of the unit. Simply press the button to reset the motor, and you should be back in business in no time. It’s your disposal’s version of a quick restart.

Options for Installation: Power Cord

• Power Cord: Options for Installation

  Waste King Legend disposals come in two flavors when it comes to power: corded and hardwired. A corded disposal simply plugs into a standard electrical outlet, making installation a breeze. A hardwired disposal, on the other hand, requires a direct electrical connection, which might require the help of an electrician.

Streamlining Waste Disposal: Dishwasher Connection

• Dishwasher Connection: Streamlining Waste Disposal

  Many Waste King Legend disposals have a dishwasher connection, allowing you to drain your dishwasher directly into the disposal. This helps prevent clogs in your plumbing and makes dishwashing even more convenient.

Considerations for Septic Systems: Septic Safe

• Septic Safe: Considerations for Septic Systems

  If you have a septic system, you’ll want to make sure your garbage disposal is septic safe. While Waste King Legend disposals can be used with septic systems, it’s important to use them responsibly. Avoid putting large amounts of food waste down the disposal at once, and consider using a septic-safe enzyme treatment to help break down the waste in your septic tank.

Choosing Your Weapon: Continuous Feed vs. Batch Feed

Alright, rookie chefs and kitchen commanders, let’s talk armory. You wouldn’t go into battle without the right sword, and you shouldn’t equip your kitchen without the right garbage disposal. The two main contenders in the disposal arena are continuous feed and batch feed models. Picking the right one depends on your cooking style, your household’s needs, and maybe even your tolerance for a little kitchen chaos. Think of it as choosing between a machine gun and a well-aimed sniper rifle – both get the job done, but how they do it is totally different.

Continuous Feed: Always Ready

Imagine a disposal that’s always hungry, like a bottomless pit for food scraps. That’s a continuous feed disposal for you! These bad boys let you scrape food in while the grinding plate is already spinning. Just flip the switch, turn on the water, and keep feeding it until your plate is clean.

• How it Works: The process is simple: turn it on, feed it scraps, and let it rip! Water is always running while it is working to aid the breakdown process.
• Ideal Usage Scenario: If you’re the type who’s constantly prepping meals, chopping veggies, and creating culinary masterpieces (or just a lot of leftovers), a continuous feed disposal is your best friend. It’s perfect for busy households where food waste is a constant companion.

Batch Feed: Safety First

Now, for those of you who value safety above all else (especially if you’ve got curious little hands running around), the batch feed disposal is your knight in shining armor. These disposals are designed to operate in, you guessed it, batches. You load up the grind chamber, then twist and lock a special stopper into place to activate the motor.

• How it Works: With batch feed, you fill it, seal it, then grind it. This is safer than continuous feed because it prevents objects or small hands from getting in during operation
• Ideal Usage Scenario: If you have small children or are simply accident-prone, a batch feed disposal offers an extra layer of protection. It’s also great if you prefer a quieter operation since it typically runs for shorter periods.

Clogs: Stop the Blockage

Ah, the dreaded clog! It’s like a traffic jam in your kitchen sink. Usually, the culprit is one of two things: grease or fibrous foods. Grease hardens as it cools, turning your disposal into a greasy, sludgy mess. Fibrous foods, like celery or potato peels, are like tiny ropes that wrap around the impeller, bringing everything to a standstill.

Prevention is key, folks! Always run cold water while operating your disposal – hot water melts the grease and sends it further down your pipes, where it will eventually re-solidify. Also, avoid putting problematic foods down there in the first place. Think of your disposal as a picky eater!

Jams: Freeing the Impellers

Hear that humming noise but nothing’s grinding? You’ve got a jam! This usually means something’s stuck between the impeller blades and the grind ring. Don’t panic – we can fix this!

Safety first! Always turn off the power to the disposal at the breaker box before attempting to remove any obstructions. Then, grab some tongs or pliers (never stick your hand in there!) and carefully fish out whatever’s causing the jam. Sometimes it’s a bone, a utensil, or a particularly stubborn piece of food. Once the obstruction is removed, hit that reset button on the bottom of the unit and give it another whirl.

Leaks: Sealing the Cracks

Uh oh, a leak! Nobody wants a puddle under their sink. Leaks are usually caused by loose connections or worn seals.

First, check all the connections to make sure they’re tight. If that doesn’t solve the problem, you might need to replace the rubber gasket or plumber’s putty around the sink flange. These are relatively inexpensive and easy to replace, and there are plenty of tutorials online to guide you. If the leak is coming from the disposal unit itself, it might be time to consider a replacement.

Humming Noise: Diagnosing the Buzz

A constant humming noise can be a sign of trouble. As we discussed earlier, it often indicates a jam. However, it could also mean there’s something stuck in the disposal that you can’t easily see.

Try the reset button first – it’s like giving your disposal a little jump start. If that doesn’t work, grab your flashlight and tongs and take a closer look. If you still can’t find the problem, it might be a motor issue, in which case you may need to call a professional or consider replacing the unit.

Unpleasant Odors: Banishing the Stench

Phew, what’s that smell? A stinky disposal is usually caused by trapped food particles and bacteria growth. But don’t worry, we can freshen things up!

Here’s a simple trick: toss in a few ice cubes and some citrus peels (lemon, lime, or orange). The ice helps to dislodge debris, while the citrus peels release oils that freshen the disposal and leave a nice scent. You can also flush the disposal with hot water and baking soda to neutralize odors. For a deeper clean, consider using a disposal cleaner specifically designed to break down food buildup and kill bacteria. Do this regularly to keep the funk away!

Maximizing Performance: Usage and Maintenance Best Practices

Let’s face it, your Waste King Legend disposal isn’t just a metal monster under your sink; it’s a valuable teammate in the never-ending battle against kitchen chaos. Treat it right, and it’ll serve you loyally for years. Mistreat it, and…well, let’s just say you’ll be fishing potato peels out of your drainpipe. So, here’s your survival guide to keeping your garbage disposal purring like a contented kitten.

Proper Usage: A Step-by-Step Guide

Think of your disposal as a delicate stomach that needs a little TLC. Don’t just chuck everything down there and hope for the best. A little forethought goes a long way. Here’s the golden rule checklist:

1. Cold Water is your Friend: Always, always run cold water before, during, and after using the disposal. The cold water helps solidify any grease that may get in there, allowing it to be chopped into small pieces and flushed down the drain instead of clinging to the side of the pipes.
2. Turn it On: Flip that switch before you start feeding in the food.
3. Feed it Gradually: Don’t overwhelm your disposal with a mountain of potato peels. Feed small amounts at a time for efficient grinding and to avoid jams. Imagine you’re feeding a baby bird, but with leftover broccoli.
4. Listen Up: Pay attention to the sound your disposal is making. If it sounds like it’s struggling, stop feeding it and let it finish grinding what’s already inside.
5. Post-Grind Flush: After you’re done, let the cold water run for another 15-20 seconds to flush everything completely. This prevents buildup and keeps things smelling fresh.
6. Splash Guard Care: Take time to clean your splash guard to prevent foul odor or molds from growing.
7. Avoid harsh Chemicals: Never use chemical drain cleaners, which are harmful.

Foods to Avoid: The Forbidden List

Just because it can fit down the drain doesn’t mean it should. Some foods are garbage disposal Kryptonite. Here’s the “do not feed” list:

• Bones: Unless you’re trying to break your disposal’s teeth (which we highly advise against), keep bones out. They’re too hard and can damage the grinding mechanism.
• Coffee Grounds: This one might surprise you, but coffee grounds clump together and can cause clogs in your pipes. They are better off in the compost.
• Grease, Fats, and Oils: These solidify and stick to the inside of your pipes, creating a gooey, nasty blockage that’s a plumber’s dream and your nightmare.
• Fibrous Foods: Celery stalks, corn husks, and onion skins are stringy and can wrap around the impeller, causing jams.
• Pasta and Rice: These expand when wet and can turn into a sticky paste that clogs your drain.
• Eggshells: The membrane in eggshells can wrap around the grinder and cause problems.
• Fruit Pits & Seeds: Similar to bones, these are too hard for the disposal to handle.

Maintenance Tips: Keeping it Fresh

Think of maintenance as a spa day for your disposal. A little pampering goes a long way in extending its lifespan and keeping it odor-free.

• The Ice Cube Trick: Every few weeks, toss a tray of ice cubes into the disposal while running cold water. The ice helps to sharpen the blades and dislodge any built-up food particles. It’s like giving your disposal a refreshing facial!
• Citrus Power: Throw in lemon, lime, or orange peels. The citrus oils help to deodorize the disposal and leave a fresh, clean scent. Plus, it’s eco-friendly!
• Baking Soda and Vinegar: Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda followed by 1/2 cup of vinegar into the disposal. Let it fizz for about 10 minutes, then flush with hot water. This helps to break down grease and odors.
• Disposal Cleaner: Consider using a commercial disposal cleaner periodically. Follow the instructions on the product label for best results.
• Regular Flushing: At least once a month, flush the disposal with a pot of boiling water to clear out any lingering debris.
• Periodic Inspections: Check for leaks around the disposal and the pipes connected to it. Address any leaks promptly to prevent water damage.

By following these simple usage and maintenance tips, you’ll keep your Waste King Legend disposal running smoothly, quietly, and odor-free for years to come. Treat it like a valued teammate, and it’ll reward you with a clean and efficient kitchen. Happy disposing!

Installation Insights: DIY vs. Professional

So, you’ve got your shiny new Waste King Legend disposal, ready to take on all those veggie scraps and leftovers. Awesome! But before you can start enjoying the convenience of a clog-free sink, you gotta get it installed. Now, the big question: are you the type to roll up your sleeves and tackle it yourself, or are you more inclined to call in the cavalry (a.k.a. a licensed plumber)? Let’s break it down, shall we?

DIY Installation: The Hands-On Approach

Alright, you’re feeling brave, huh? We like that! Just make sure you’re prepared. Think of it like assembling IKEA furniture, but with water and electricity involved. Fun, right?

• Gear Up: Tools and Materials Checklist. You’ll need to assemble your arsenal of tools:
  • Screwdrivers: Both flathead and Phillips head, because you never know what you’ll encounter.
  • Plumber’s Putty: The magical goo that seals the deal (literally).
  • Electrical Tape: For safety first!
  • Pliers: For gripping and maneuvering those stubborn parts.
  • Adjustable Wrench: A must-have for tightening connections.
  • Safety Glasses: Protect those peepers!
  • Gloves: Because who wants to touch mystery gunk?
  • Flashlight or Headlamp: For those dark and mysterious under-sink adventures.
  • Old Bucket/Towels: To catch any drips or spills.
• Step-by-Step Installation Guide. Here’s the basic rundown:
  1. Safety First! Turn off the power to the disposal circuit at the breaker box. Seriously, don’t skip this step!
  2. Disconnect the Old Disposal: If you’re replacing an old unit, carefully disconnect it, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Have that bucket ready!
  3. Prepare the Sink Flange: Apply a generous amount of plumber’s putty to the underside of the new sink flange.
  4. Attach the Mounting Assembly: Follow the Waste King Legend’s specific instructions for attaching the mounting assembly to the sink flange. This usually involves tightening screws or twisting a locking ring.
  5. Connect the Dishwasher Drain (if applicable): Connect the dishwasher drain hose to the disposal’s inlet.
  6. Wire the Disposal: Connect the electrical wires according to the wiring diagram in the manual. Make sure to use electrical tape to secure the connections.
  7. Mount the Disposal: Lift the disposal into place and secure it to the mounting assembly.
  8. Test for Leaks: Turn on the water and check for any leaks around the sink flange, drain connections, and dishwasher inlet.
  9. Run the Disposal: Turn on the power and run the disposal with cold water to test its operation.
• Safety Dance. Electricity and water don’t mix! Wear safety glasses and gloves, and double-check all connections before turning the power back on. Also, read your Waste King Legend’s manual VERY carefully!

Professional Installation: Calling in the Experts

Okay, maybe the thought of fiddling with plumbing and electricity under your sink gives you the heebie-jeebies. That’s perfectly fine! Sometimes, it’s best to leave it to the pros.

• When to Call a Plumber. Here are some situations where professional installation is a must:
  • Complex Plumbing: If your sink setup is unusual or you’re dealing with old, corroded pipes.
  • Electrical Concerns: If you’re not comfortable working with electrical wiring, absolutely call a pro.
  • Building Codes: If you need to ensure compliance with local plumbing or electrical codes.
  • Peace of Mind: Sometimes, it’s just worth it to avoid the hassle and know the job is done right.
• What to Expect from Professional Installation. Generally, professional installation includes:
  • Removal of the Old Disposal: If applicable.
  • Installation of the New Waste King Legend Disposal: Including all necessary plumbing and electrical connections.
  • Testing and Inspection: To ensure proper operation and no leaks.
  • Disposal of the Old Unit: Which saves you a trip to the landfill.
• Cost Estimates. Plumber rates vary depending on your location and the complexity of the job. Expect to pay anywhere from \$100 to \$300 for professional garbage disposal installation. Get quotes from several plumbers before making a decision.

Warranty and Longevity: Protecting Your Investment

Let’s face it: buying a garbage disposal isn’t exactly thrilling. But, it’s an investment, and like any investment, you want to know it’s protected and will last. So, let’s dive into what Waste King offers in terms of warranty and how to keep your Legend Series disposal kicking for years to come.

Warranty Coverage: What’s Protected?

Waste King stands behind their products. Their warranty typically covers defects in materials or workmanship. We’re talking about issues that arise from how the disposal was made or the quality of the parts used, not from you accidentally dropping a spoon down there (we’ve all been there!).

What it covers:

• Defects in materials
• Defects in workmanship

What it usually doesn’t cover:

• Damage from misuse (like grinding metal objects)
• Normal wear and tear
• Improper installation

How to Make a Warranty Claim:

Okay, so your disposal isn’t working, and you think it’s a warranty issue? Here’s the lowdown on making a claim.

• Keep Your Proof of Purchase: This is HUGE! You’ll need your original receipt or proof of purchase to show when and where you bought the disposal.
• Contact Waste King: Head to the Waste King website or call their customer service. They’ll walk you through the process.
• Describe the Problem: Be as detailed as possible about what’s going wrong. Photos or videos can also be super helpful!
• Follow Their Instructions: Waste King might ask you to send in the disposal for inspection or have a local technician take a look. Just follow their lead.

Lifespan: How Long Will It Last?

Okay, here’s the million-dollar question: How long will your Waste King Legend disposal actually last? Well, that depends on a few factors.

• Usage Frequency: If you’re grinding food scraps after every meal, every day, your disposal will naturally experience more wear and tear than if you only use it occasionally.
• Proper Maintenance: Treating your disposal right is key. Regular cleaning and avoiding problematic foods (more on that later) can significantly extend its lifespan.
• Type of Food Scraps: Soft foods are your disposal’s friend; hard items or fibrous materials are not.
• Model: Consider this, a higher horsepower model, may last longer due to its robust design and ability to handle tougher waste, reducing strain and extending its operational life.

Signs It’s Time to Say Goodbye (Replace the Disposal):

Even with the best care, your disposal won’t last forever. Here are some signs that it might be time for a replacement:

• Frequent Clogs: If your disposal is constantly clogging, even when you’re careful about what you put down there, it might be a sign of internal damage.
• Persistent Leaks: A small drip might not seem like a big deal, but persistent leaks can lead to water damage and indicate a failing seal.
• Declining Performance: Is it taking longer to grind food? Is it making strange noises? These could be signs that the motor is on its way out.
• Rattling or Loud Noises: Unusual sounds during operation may suggest worn-out components, signaling that the disposal is nearing the end of its lifespan.

By understanding the warranty coverage and taking good care of your Waste King Legend disposal, you can protect your investment and keep your kitchen running smoothly for years to come. Happy grinding!

So, there you have it! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just whipping up a quick meal, a Waste King garbage disposal can seriously simplify your kitchen routine. Less mess, less hassle – what’s not to love? Happy cooking (and cleaning)!