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The most common garbage disposal size in the U.S. is 1/2 horsepower. This size is ideal for households with three or fewer people or those that don't produce much food waste. Although 1/2 horsepower can't handle the typical food waste load for a household of four (which is about 250 pounds of food waste annually) as effectively as 3/4 horsepower, it remains the most common size of garbage disposal on the market.

As with many appliances, proper maintenance is key to maximizing your garbage disposal’s life span. If everyone in your household is on board with proper care and maintenance, like running water while operating the disposal, you should get plenty of years out of your unit. Avoid putting the wrong food items down the disposal, including pasta, rice, bread, and more.

On average, a garbage disposal can last anywhere from 7 to 12 years, with many models functioning well for about 10 years. With heavy usage, a motor may last a minimum of five years, while grinding plates will wear down over time. It's generally a good idea to consider a replacement if your unit is approaching the 10-year mark. Other signs that it's time for a new disposal include frequent leaks, persistent clogs, lingering odors, lack of power, or unusual noises. If your unit is not that old, it's worth investigating if a less expensive part, like a rubber seal or a loose hose, is causing the issue.

The main issue with garbage disposals is clogging. This can mean a clogging of the pipes that expel the food along with water, or a clogging of the mechanical parts themselves. The problem lies in the solution because you can’t easily see clogs if they’re inside the system, and reaching in to dislodge stuck items is a risky proposal. Call a pro and ask what they would do, but if you can’t see the clog easily, and running the unit won’t free it, you need to let a professional handle the fix.