How Long Does a Garbage Disposal Last and When to Replace It

AVERAGE LIFESPAN BY TIER

• Budget units (1/3 HP, builder-grade): 5–7 years
• Mid-range (1/2 HP, InSinkErator Badger, Moen GX): 8–12 years
• Premium (3/4 HP+, InSinkErator Evolution, Waste King Knight): 12–15+ years

WHAT SHORTENS DISPOSAL LIFE

• Grease and oil buildup
• Hard items (bones, fruit pits, silverware)
• Hot water (melts grease into pipes)
• Hard LA tap water mineral buildup
• Skipping regular cleaning

REPAIR OR REPLACE? THE 5-YEAR RULE

Under 5 years: almost always worth repairing. 5–8 years: depends on the issue (leaks at the top usually mean replacement). Over 8 years: replacement is almost always smarter — a new $249 unit gives you another decade.

Call (619) 626-3542 and we'll give you an honest opinion on whether yours is worth saving.