Thinking about installing a garbage disposal in your kitchen? These small but mighty appliances can make cooking and cleanup easier — but they’re not always the right fit, especially for homes with septic systems, which are common in Northeast Ohio.
Before you flip the switch on a new disposal unit, here’s what you need to know about whether garbage disposals are worth it, and whether they’re safe for septic tanks.
What Is a Garbage Disposal and What Does It Do?
A garbage disposal is an electric device mounted under your sink that grinds up food scraps so they can be flushed through your plumbing. It’s a popular feature in many modern kitchens because it helps reduce food waste and kitchen odors.
Common items that go into garbage disposals:
- Vegetable peels
- Fruit scraps
- Leftover bits of cooked food
But they are not designed for:
- Coffee grounds
- Grease or fats
- Pasta, rice, or starchy foods
- Bones or fibrous vegetables (like celery)
Benefits of a Garbage Disposal
- Less kitchen waste: Sends food scraps down the drain instead of to landfills.
- Reduced odors: Less food rotting in your trash can.
- Easier cleanup: Speeds up dishwashing and prep time.
- Eco-friendlier (in some areas): Some municipalities turn waste into energy.
Garbage Disposals and Septic Systems: A Problematic Pair
If your home has a septic system, installing a garbage disposal is more complicated. Here’s why:
- Garbage disposals increase the volume of solid waste entering your septic tank.
- Most food particles take longer to break down than human waste or toilet paper.
- Over time, this can overload your tank, leading to clogs, odors, and more frequent pumping.
If You Have a Septic System But Still Want a Garbage Disposal
You can use a garbage disposal with a septic system, but it takes more effort:
- Choose a septic-safe garbage disposal: Look for models specifically designed for septic use, often with built-in enzyme injection or bio-assist features.
- Limit usage: Use it only for small scraps — not full plates of food.
- Never grind grease, bones, or pasta: These can clog both the disposal and your pipes.
- Pump your septic tank more often: Likely every 2–3 years instead of 3–5.
- Add septic tank bacteria (if advised): Some professionals recommend additives to help break down food waste, but consult your local septic expert first.
When Is a Garbage Disposal a Good Idea?
Good fit if:
- Your home is connected to a municipal sewer system.
- You want an easy way to manage food scraps.
- You’re committed to using it properly.
Not ideal if:
- You have a septic tank and don’t want the extra maintenance.
- You’re looking for a zero-effort waste solution (no such thing!).
- You frequently cook with fatty foods or fibrous vegetables.
Better Alternatives for Septic Homes
- Composting: A natural and eco-friendly option. Great for garden soil and eliminates waste entirely.
- Traditional trash disposal: Still works fine if you manage odors with regular emptying and a sealed bin.
Conclusion: Should You Get a Garbage Disposal in Northeast Ohio?
If your home is on sewer, a garbage disposal is likely a safe and convenient choice — just don’t abuse it. But if you’re among the many Northeast Ohio homeowners with a septic tank, think twice. A garbage disposal can lead to more problems (and costs) unless you’re prepared for extra upkeep.