How Much Does a Garbage Disposal Cost? 

Last Revised: 8/1/25 

Are you thinking about replacing or installing a garbage disposal, but unsure how much you should expect to spend? Curious why prices can vary so widely between models? 

A quality garbage disposal should last 10 years or more, so taking a few extra minutes to understand your options now can help avoid any second thoughts about your choice down the line. With over 75 years of trusted service, Mattioni has helped countless homeowners make informed, confident decisions about their home systems – including kitchen essentials like garbage disposals. 

In this article, we’ll break down the top factors that contribute to the overall cost of a garbage disposal installation. You’ll learn what to expect in terms of pricing, how to choose the right model for your needs, and why a professional installation makes all the difference. 

Let’s chop up the details – so you can move forward with confidence. 

In a rush? Here’s the pricing info on our garbage disposal installation services at Mattioni. Read on for key details. 

What’s the Typical Cost of a Garbage Disposal? 

The cost of a professionally installed garbage disposal at Mattioni typically ranges from $700 to $1,300. This includes the disposal unit itself and expert installation from a licensed technician. 

That range also reflects several key factors: the model you choose, the disposal’s performance features, and any plumbing or electrical adjustments needed to complete the job properly. While you may find lower prices for DIY installations or hardware-only quotes, those rarely account for the long-term value of a professionally installed, properly fitted system. 

At Mattioni, we approach each installation with a focus on durability, safety, and performance – so your kitchen functions smoothly and stays protected from leaks, clogs, and costly future repairs. 

Now that you have some basic pricing information to reference, let’s take a closer look at each of the factors that affect your final price tag.  

Garbage Disposal Horsepower: What Size Motor Should You Pay For? 

The motor’s horsepower (HP) is one of the most significant contributors to a garbage disposal’s cost. Entry-level models typically feature a 1/3 HP motor, which can handle light use and soft food waste. However, these models tend to jam more easily and may not stand up well in a busy kitchen. 

Mid-range and premium models feature motors between ½ HP and 1 HP, which are better suited for grinding tougher scraps like vegetable peels, small bones, or fibrous waste. A higher horsepower model works faster, clogs less, and often includes better grind mechanisms that reduce the likelihood of plumbing issues. 

Think of it like choosing between a compact car and a reliable pickup truck. Both can get the job done, but one is built for heavier workloads and will hold up better over time. 

Sound Control & Noise Insulation 

If you’ve ever flinched when flipping on a loud garbage disposal, you’re not alone. Basic models often lack noise insulation, which means they operate at 80+ decibels – roughly the level of a blender. This can be disruptive, especially in open floor plans or homes with young children or early risers. 

Premium disposals, on the other hand, are engineered for quiet operation with features like sound-dampening mounts, anti-vibration components, and insulated chambers. These enhancements significantly reduce noise and make the disposal more seamlessly integrated into your kitchen, not a disruptive chore. 

Quiter models usually sit at the higher end of the pricing spectrum, but for many homeowners, the everyday comfort is well worth the added investment. By paying a little more, you’ll get a more peaceful kitchen experience. 

Longevity & Durability: Why Lifespan Matters 

As you can see, not all garbage disposals are built to the same standard – which is especially significant when it comes to their expected lifespan.  

Lower-end models may last around 5-7 years, while higher-end units with more durable materials – like stainless steel grinding elements – can last 10-15 years or more with proper care. 

Investing in a more durable garbage disposal means fewer breakdowns, lower long-term costs, and less hassle. Plus, premium disposals often include safety features, self-cleaning mechanisms, or multiple grinding stages that reduce clogs and keep your plumbing system healthy. 

When choosing a disposal, it’s worth asking: will this unit still be running reliably five to seven years from now? A slightly higher up-front investment often pays off at the back end of the equipment’s lifespan. 

Installation Complexity: What’s Behind the Wall (and Under the Sink) 

A garbage disposal installation may seem simple, but it often involves more than just swapping out an old unit. Our team will carefully evaluate your sink, drain alignment, plumbing materials, and under-sink space before installing a new unit. 

If the existing plumbing is outdated, misaligned, or damaged, adjustments will need to be made to ensure the new disposal works safely and efficiently. Some installations also involve customizing mounting flanges or modifying the sink base to fit the new unit. 

An improperly installed garbage disposal can lead to leaks, clogs, electrical hazards, and even damage to your sink or cabinetry. A professional installation, on the other hand, ensures your home is protected and everything works safely from day one. 

At Mattioni, every garbage disposal installation is done to code, with careful attention to fit, sealing, drainage, and function – so you can count on a smooth, leak-free operation from day one. 

Finish, Fixtures, and Electrical Work: The Hidden Cost Factors 

Beyond the installation details and the garbage disposal itself, a few secondary considerations can affect cost as well. For example, the finish of the sink flange or drain collar may need to match existing fixtures. Upgrading to a brushed nickel, matte black, or oil-rubbed bronze finish can enhance your kitchen’s look – but may come at a slightly higher cost than standard chrome. 

Electrical access is another common consideration. If your kitchen lacks a nearby GFI outlet or if your current wiring is outdated, we’ll most likely need to install a new grounded outlet for safety and code compliance. This ensures your disposal runs safely in a moisture-prone environment like a kitchen sink. 

While not every home needs these upgrades, including them in the conversation helps ensure your installation is complete, compliant, and tailored to your kitchen’s needs. 

Quick Recap: What You’re Paying For – and Why It’s Worth It 

When it comes to garbage disposal installation, the final price depends on much more than just the appliance itself. From motor power and sound insulation to materials, finishes, and proper electrical access, each detail plays a role in determining both upfront cost and long-term performance. 

At Mattioni, our $700 to $1,300 price range reflects not just high-quality equipment, but also the value of professional installation, plumbing adjustments, and safety-focused workmanship. 

Ready to Upgrade Your Kitchen? Here’s Your Next Step

Say goodbye to struggling with confusing cost estimates and noisy or underperforming disposals. You now know how a professional installation and smarter unit selection can pay off long-term. You’re ready to take the next step. 

For over seven decades, Mattioni has delivered reliable, expert service to homeowners who want the job done right the first time. Our expert team is here to walk you through your garbage disposal upgrade options, answer your questions, and complete the installation with precision and care. All so you can make your final decision with confidence. 

Call us today for a consultation at (610) 400-8510, or book your appointment online, and take the next step toward a cleaner, more convenient kitchen.