Best Short, Small, or Compact Size Garbage Disposals for Tight Spaces

When it comes to garbage disposals, not every kitchen has enough space for a full-sized model. For those with small kitchen sinks, particularly those in apartments, or who have limited cabinet space, a compact garbage disposal can be a lifesaver. If you're looking for a small disposal that packs a punch you've come to the right place. In this post, we will take a look at the best short, small, or compact size garbage disposals for tight spaces.

How To Pick The Right Compact Garbage Disposal

When picking a compact garbage disposal, you should try to select one that has a minimum of ½ horsepower so it can handle everyday waste such as vegetables, fruits and starches. If you need your disposal to handle more rough wastes, you may want to consider trying to pick up a disposal that has at least ⅔ horse power. These will be able to handle fibrous vegetables, fruit peels and fish bones with ease.

Pros and Cons of a compact or small garbage disposal

When it comes to choosing a compact or small garbage disposal, there are several pros and cons to consider. Here are some of the main advantages and disadvantages of picking a compact or small garbage disposal:

Overall, choosing a compact or small garbage disposal can be a great option for those looking to save space and money. However, it's important to consider the limitations of these models, such as their reduced power and capacity, before making a purchase. If you have a larger family or generate a lot of food waste, a larger model may be a better fit for your needs.

Best Short, Small, or Compact Size Garbage Disposals: Top Picks

When looking for a garbage disposal for a small kitchen or space, there are several key factors to consider, including size, power, noise level, and ease of installation. After researching and testing various options, we've come up with the following top picks:

1. InSinkErator Evolution Compact Garbage Disposal
2. Waste King L-1001 Garbage Disposal
3. Waste Maid 58 Economy Garbage Disposal
4. Moen GXP50C Garbage Disposal

Let's take a closer look at each of these garbage disposals.

InSinkErator Evolution Compact Garbage Disposal

The InSinkErator Evolution Compact Garbage Disposal is an excellent choice for those with tight spaces. Though it is the widest one on our list, it's only 12.125 inches tall, making it perfect for cabinets with limited height. Despite its small size, it boasts a powerful 3/4 horsepower motor, which can easily grind up food waste. It also features SoundSeal technology, which reduces noise levels, making it a great option for small apartments or homes.

InSinkErator Evolution Compact Size Specifications

InSinkErator Evolution Compact Installation Diagram

Waste King L-1001 Garbage Disposal

The Waste King L-1001 Garbage Disposal is another compact option that's perfect for small kitchens. It's only 11.5 inches tall, so it fits easily under most sinks. It features a 1/2 horsepower motor that can quickly and efficiently grind up food waste. It's also relatively quiet, thanks to its insulated sound barrier.

Waste King L-1001 Size Specifications

Waste King L-1001 Installation Diagram

Waste Maid 58 Economy Garbage Disposal

The Waste Maid 58 Economy Garbage Disposal is a budget-friendly option that's perfect for those on a tight budget. It's only 11.5 inches tall, making it a great option for small kitchens or apartments. It features a 1/2 horsepower motor that can grind up most food waste. However, as to be expected with the cheapest one in our list, it is also the loudest model we tested. 

Waste Maid 58 Size Specifications

Waste Maid 58 Installation Diagram

Moen GXP50C Garbage Disposal

The Moen GXP50C Garbage Disposal is another excellent option for small kitchens or apartments. It's only 13.4 inches tall, so it fits easily under most sinks. It features a 1/2 horsepower motor that runs at a blazing 2600 RPM - much faster than standard disposals - pretty much guaranteeing whatever you throw at it will be shredded and washed down the drain in an instant. 

Moen GXP50C Size Specifications

Moen GXP50C Installation Diagram

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Short, Small, or Compact Size Garbage Disposal

When choosing a garbage disposal for a small kitchen or tight space, there are several factors to consider, including:

1. Size: Make sure to measure the available space under your sink before purchasing a compact garbage disposal. Look for models with a height of 12 inches or less.
2. Power: A garbage disposal with a powerful motor will be able to grind up food waste more efficiently. Look for models with a motor that's at least 1/2 horsepower.
3. Noise level: If you live in a small apartment or have close neighbors, consider a garbage disposal with noise-reducing technology, such as insulated sound barriers or sound seals.
4. Ease of installation: Look for a garbage disposal that's easy to install and comes with clear instructions. Some models also come with all the necessary installation hardware.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Are compact garbage disposals as powerful as full-sized models?

A: While compact garbage disposals may have smaller motors, many are still powerful enough to handle most food waste. Look for models with a motor that's at least 1/2 horsepower.

Q: Can I install a compact garbage disposal myself?

A: Yes, many compact garbage disposals are designed for easy installation and come with clear instructions. However, if you're not comfortable with DIY projects, it's always best to hire a professional plumber.

Q: Are compact garbage disposals more expensive than full-sized models?

A: Not necessarily. While some high-end compact garbage disposals can be pricey, there are many budget-friendly options available.

Q: what is the maximum horse power of a small garbage disposal

The maximum horsepower of a small garbage disposal can vary depending on the model and brand. However, in general, most small or compact garbage disposals have a motor with a horsepower of 1/2 or less. While some models may have a higher horsepower, a motor with 1/2 horsepower is usually sufficient to handle most food waste. It's important to choose a garbage disposal with the appropriate horsepower for your needs, based on the amount and type of food waste you plan to dispose of.

Q: What is the price of a small garbage disposal

The price of a small garbage disposal can vary depending on several factors, such as the brand, model, features, and horsepower. Generally speaking, a small or compact garbage disposal can cost anywhere from $50 to $300, with most models falling in the $100 to $150 range. High-end models with advanced features, such as noise-reducing technology or stainless steel construction, can cost more. Budget-friendly options are also available, but it's important to ensure that the model you choose is still of good quality and will meet your needs. It's a good idea to compare prices and features of several models before making a purchase.

Q: Are small garbage disposals loud?

The noise level of a small garbage disposal can vary depending on the specific model and brand. However, in general, small or compact garbage disposals can be louder than larger models due to their smaller size and less powerful motors. Some models may have noise-reducing technology to help reduce the sound level, but it's still important to be aware that small garbage disposals can be noisier than larger ones. If noise is a concern for you, it's a good idea to look for models with noise-reducing features or opt for a larger model, which may be quieter overall.

If you have a small kitchen or limited cabinet space, a compact garbage disposal can be a great investment. When choosing the best short, small, or compact size garbage disposals, look for models with a powerful motor, noise-reducing technology, and ease of installation. Our top picks include the InSinkErator Evolution Compact, Waste King L-1001, Waste Maid 58 Economy, and Moen GXP50C.