You may be wondering how many amps a garbage disposal really uses because maybe your kitchen lights flicker when you turn it on, or maybe you’re planning to install one. I get it, I’ve been there too. The short answer is this: most garbage disposals use between 4 to 8 amps, but larger models can use up to 15 amps. Knowing the exact number can help you avoid blown fuses or tripped breakers. In this article, you will get all the simple and clear details to help you understand how much power your garbage disposal really needs.
Understanding Garbage Disposal Power Usage
Garbage disposals are small machines, but they need a good amount of power to do their job. When you switch on the disposal, it crushes and grinds food waste quickly. That action needs force, and force comes from electricity. The number of amps it uses depends on the power of the motor.
Most common garbage disposals in homes use between 4 to 8 amps when they are running. The motor size is usually between 1/3 horsepower to 1 horsepower. A smaller motor, like 1/3 HP, might only use 4 to 6 amps. A bigger motor, like 1 HP, could use close to 15 amps.
Why does this matter? Because your home’s wiring and circuit breakers have limits. If your disposal draws more amps than your circuit can handle, it could trip the breaker. That means the power shuts off. If it happens too often, it can damage your disposal and even be dangerous.
Most kitchen outlets are on a 15 or 20 amp circuit. If your garbage disposal uses 10 or more amps, and you run it at the same time as another appliance, you might overload the circuit. That’s why it’s important to know how many amps your disposal uses before you buy or install one.
Another thing is startup amps. When you first turn on the disposal, it might use more power just for a few seconds. This is called a startup surge. It’s normal and doesn’t last long, but you should still be ready for it.
Also, some disposals have different speeds. If your disposal can run at more than one speed, it may use different amps at different times.
What about old disposals? If your disposal is older, it might draw more amps because the motor isn’t working as well. Dust, rust, or worn parts can make it work harder, and that means more power.
Things that can affect the amps:
- Motor size (horsepower)
- Brand and model
- Age of the disposal
- What type of food you put in
- How long you run it
- What else is running on the same circuit
So always check the label on your disposal. It usually tells you the amps or watts. If it shows watts, you can divide by the voltage (usually 120 volts in the US) to get the amps.
For example:
800 watts ÷ 120 volts = 6.6 amps
- Most disposals use between 4 to 8 amps
- Bigger units can use up to 15 amps
- Older units may use more power
- Startup may cause a short power surge
- Always check the product label for exact power use
Picking the Right Size Garbage Disposal
Choosing the right garbage disposal can save you from a lot of trouble. If you get one that’s too big for your kitchen circuit, it might keep tripping the breaker. But if you get one that’s too small, it might jam or break easily.
Start by thinking about how much you cook. If you cook a lot and use the disposal often, you might need a stronger unit. If you don’t use it much, a small one is okay.
Most small homes or apartments use a 1/3 HP disposal. These usually use about 4 to 6 amps. They are fine for light use, like soft foods and scraps.
For a family of 3 or 4 people, a 1/2 HP or 3/4 HP is better. These units often use 6 to 9 amps. They can handle more types of food, like vegetable peels or small bones.
For large families or heavy use, a 1 HP disposal is best. These can use up to 15 amps, but they are strong and fast. They grind food quickly and don’t jam as often.
Think also about the brand. Some brands are better at using power wisely. Look for models with energy-efficient motors. These do the same work but use fewer amps.
And always check your home’s circuit. If your kitchen outlet is on a 15 amp breaker, you might not want a disposal that uses 12 or more amps. If it shares the line with other things, like a microwave or dishwasher, that’s even more important.
You might also need a separate switch for your disposal. Some homes have wall switches, others have buttons under the sink.
- 1/3 HP = 4 to 6 amps
- 1/2 HP or 3/4 HP = 6 to 9 amps
- 1 HP = up to 15 amps
- Pick a size based on your cooking habits
- Check your kitchen’s circuit size before buying
Checking the Amps of Your Current Disposal
If you already have a garbage disposal and want to know how many amps it uses, the first step is to look at the label. Most disposals have a small metal plate or sticker on the side or bottom. It might be hard to see, so use a flashlight if needed.
The label will often say things like:
- Volts: usually 120V in the US
- Watts: how much power it uses
- Amps: how much current it pulls
If it only lists watts, you can do the math:
Watts ÷ Volts = Amps
If your disposal says 900 watts and your kitchen has 120V power, then:
900 ÷ 120 = 7.5 amps
If there’s no label, you can check the manual or search the model number online. Most brands list this info on their website.
You can also use a tool called an amp meter or clamp meter. You clip it around the wire while the disposal is running. It shows you the real number of amps being used. This is helpful because the real usage may be different from what the label says.
If you don’t feel safe doing that, call an electrician. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Also, listen to the disposal. If it sounds like it’s struggling, grinding slowly, or humming too long before it spins, it might be using more amps than normal. That could mean something is wrong inside.
- Look at the sticker or plate on the unit
- Check the manual or look up model online
- Use an amp meter for real-time readings
- Strange sounds or slow grinding may mean high amp use
- Always be safe when checking live wires
Why Amps Matter for Safety and Performance
Knowing how many amps your disposal uses is not just about numbers. It’s about keeping your home safe and making sure your disposal lasts a long time.
If a disposal uses more amps than your circuit can handle, it can trip the breaker. This stops power and protects your wiring from heat. But if it keeps happening, the breaker might wear out. That could lead to electrical fires.
Overloading can also harm the motor inside your disposal. If it keeps running with too much power, it might burn out. Then you have to replace the whole unit.
Low amps can also be a problem. If your disposal is too weak, it might not grind well. That leads to clogs and backups in your sink. You’ll spend more time fixing it than using it.
Another thing is power sharing. If your disposal shares the same line as a microwave, toaster, or dishwasher, you might run into problems. All those appliances together can easily pass the 15 or 20 amp limit.
Also, if you’re upgrading your kitchen or installing a new disposal, make sure the wiring is up to date. Older homes may not have the right power setup.
So always match the disposal with the wiring. That way, it runs strong and safe.
- Overloaded circuits can cause fires
- Low power leads to clogs and jams
- Old breakers may stop working right
- Sharing power with other tools can cause overload
- Keep your wiring updated for safety
When to Upgrade Your Garbage Disposal
Even if your current disposal is working, there may be signs that it’s time for a new one. One big sign is if it starts using more amps than before. This means it’s working too hard.
Another sign is slow grinding. If it takes longer to chew through food, the motor might be weak. That can lead to more power draw, which means more heat and stress on your wiring.
If your disposal keeps tripping the breaker, that’s also a red flag. It’s either too powerful for your circuit or has a motor problem.
Noise is another clue. If it gets louder or has a strange buzzing sound, the motor might be damaged.
Also, if your disposal is more than 10 years old, it’s probably not very efficient. New models use power better and are safer.
And if you’re doing kitchen upgrades, it might be smart to upgrade your disposal too. A new unit can handle more food with less energy.
- Grinding slower than before
- Tripping the breaker often
- Loud or strange noise
- Over 10 years old
- Kitchen upgrades
Installation Tips to Handle Amps Properly
If you’re putting in a new garbage disposal, there are a few things you can do to make sure it works well and doesn’t overload your power.
First, always turn off power before starting. Safety first. Use a tester to make sure there’s no live current.
Next, check the circuit. Is it a 15 amp or 20 amp breaker? Make sure the disposal’s amp rating is under that number.
If possible, put the disposal on its own switch and its own line. This helps avoid overloads when using other appliances.
Use the right wires. For a 15 amp breaker, use 14-gauge wire. For 20 amps, use 12-gauge wire. Using the wrong wire size can cause overheating.
Follow the manual for your disposal. Each model is a little different.
Lastly, test it after you install it. Let it run for a minute and watch for problems. Listen for strange sounds and check if the breaker stays on.
- Turn off power before starting
- Check breaker size
- Use proper wire gauge
- Follow the manual
- Test after installing
Final Thoughts
Garbage disposals are helpful tools, but they do use a good amount of power. Knowing how many amps yours uses can save you from overloads, damage, and even safety problems. Always match the disposal size to your circuit and cooking needs. Check your current setup, and if it’s time, don’t be afraid to upgrade to a newer, more efficient model. With the right unit and a little care, your disposal can last many years without trouble.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is it okay to use a high amp garbage disposal on a 15 amp breaker?
Using a high amp garbage disposal on a 15 amp breaker is not always safe. If the disposal draws close to 15 amps, and you use it with other appliances on the same circuit, the breaker may trip. This can lead to repeated power issues or even damage to the breaker over time. If the disposal uses 12 or more amps, it’s better to have it on a dedicated 20 amp line. That way, you don’t risk overload or loss of power during use.
Is it normal for my garbage disposal to trip the breaker sometimes?
It’s not really normal. If your garbage disposal is tripping the breaker, it could mean it is drawing more amps than the breaker can handle. This might happen because the motor is old, there’s a clog, or the unit is too powerful for the wiring in your kitchen. Sometimes it’s a startup surge, but if it keeps happening, it’s best to check the amps and the breaker size or call an electrician for safety.
Can I use my garbage disposal on a shared kitchen circuit?
You can, but it’s not the best idea. Garbage disposals draw a lot of amps, especially when they start. If you run it along with a microwave, blender, or coffee maker, you might go over the amp limit for your circuit. This can trip the breaker or make your disposal work poorly. If you can, put the disposal on a separate line. That makes it work better and safer.
Can a garbage disposal work on a GFCI outlet?
Yes, it can work on a GFCI outlet, and in some places, it’s even required. GFCI outlets help protect from electrical shocks, especially in areas with water like the kitchen. If your disposal is near the sink, using a GFCI outlet makes sense. Just make sure the outlet and breaker can handle the amps. Some disposals don’t work well with GFCI if they have high startup amps, so always check the specs.
Is it safe to upgrade to a higher HP garbage disposal?
It can be safe if your wiring and breaker can handle the extra amps. Higher horsepower disposals usually need more amps. Before upgrading, check your current circuit. A 1 HP disposal might use up to 15 amps. If you only have a 15 amp breaker, that may be too much. Also check the wire size and outlet. If you’re not sure, ask a pro. A safe upgrade can give you more power and better grinding.
Can I reduce the amps my disposal uses?
Not really. The amps are based on the motor size and power need. But you can help it run smoother by keeping it clean and not overloading it. Don’t put hard food like bones or too much food at once. Also, use cold water while running it. These steps don’t change the amps, but they help avoid motor strain, which can lead to power spikes.
Do I need a new breaker for my garbage disposal?
Maybe. If your current breaker trips when using the disposal, and the amps are close to the breaker limit, it may be smart to install a dedicated breaker. For example, if you have a 1 HP disposal that uses up to 15 amps, and your kitchen is on a 15 amp breaker already full with other appliances, adding a new 20 amp breaker just for the disposal is a smart move. It’s safer and keeps your kitchen running better.
Do I have to call an electrician to check my disposal amps?
You don’t have to, but it’s a good idea if you’re not sure. You can try to read the label yourself or use an amp meter, but if you don’t feel confident, calling an electrician is the safe way. They can check the wiring, the breaker, and even tell you if you need upgrades. This can save you from future problems and keep your home safer.
