Thankfully, buying a garbage disposal is not something homeowners have to do very often. Most garbage disposals will last for 10-15 years, but once the in-sink unit does go out, the convenience of a disposal will soon be missed. If you find yourself without a working garbage disposal, you are likely asking yourself: What should I consider when buying a garbage disposal?

When buying a garbage disposal, the first consideration are your local laws and regulations governing disposals. If you are simply replacing a worn out unit, you don't have to be too concerned about this first step, but there may be new regulations that you are not aware of. You should certainly check with local officials if your home has never had a garbage disposal; some areas still restrict their use.

Many garbage disposals come with 1/3 horsepower motors, which are generally suited to the workload in an apartment or single-family home. However, the newer ultra garbage disposals are also available in ½ horsepower and 1 horsepower models. When you are considering buying a garbage disposal, you will want to factor in how much use it will get. A larger home with a large family will require a stronger motor.

Another consideration is design. When buying a new garbage disposal, check to ensure that it has a dishwasher connection. This design allows food particles from the dishwasher to be flushed away through the disposal system. If looks play a part in your decision, many new garbage disposals are made of gleaming stainless steel for streamlined looks - and for durability.

Added features should also be considered when buying a garbage disposal. Many people choose to pay a bit more to get a super quiet disposal, while others find such elements as corrosion protection shields, overload manual reset buttons, self-service wrenches and anti-splash baffles to be important features.

Major garbage disposal companies put out brochures about their products; pick up a few at your local hardware store to review at home, and don't forget to ask a few questions of the appliance personnel while you are at the store. They have probably developed a good working knowledge of the different types and brands, and their expertise could save you some money. Reviewing the length of warranty that covers your new garbage disposal is, of course, a prudent plan.

The installation of a garbage disposal is a relatively difficult do-it-yourself task. If you are experienced with plumbing, you may want to give it a try; in most cases, however, you should probably contact local electrician or plumber to install your new garbage disposal.

Invented by John W. Hammes in 1927, the garbage disposal has become a standard appliance in most American homes. By learning what to consider when buying a garbage disposal, you can replace your unit easier - and get back to enjoying the convenience of this very practical kitchen appliance.