Garburator vs Garbage Disposal: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to kitchen waste management, you’ve probably come across the terms garburator and garbage disposal. If you’re wondering which one you need or whether there’s even a difference at all, you’re not alone. Many homeowners search for answers to the garburator vs garbage disposal question, especially when upgrading kitchen appliances or remodeling their space.

In this blog post, we’ll break down what each term means, where they’re used, how they work, and if there’s any real difference between the two. By the end, you’ll know exactly what to call the appliance and how to choose the right one for your kitchen.

What is a Garburator?

A garburator is an under-sink kitchen appliance designed to grind up food waste into small particles that can safely pass through your home’s plumbing system. It’s especially popular in Canada, where the term “garburator” is more commonly used than “garbage disposal.”

These devices are installed directly under your kitchen sink and are connected to the drain. When switched on, internal blades or impellers break down soft food scraps, which are then flushed away with water.

The purpose of a garburator is to reduce the amount of food waste that ends up in landfills. Instead of throwing leftovers into the trash, you can dispose of them right at the sink, making kitchen cleanup quicker and more hygienic.

What is a Garbage Disposal?

A garbage disposal is the American term for the exact same appliance. It functions identically to a garburator: grinding food scraps into slurry so it can travel through your plumbing and into the municipal wastewater treatment system.

Common in U.S. households, garbage disposals offer the same benefits less trash, fewer odors, and an eco-friendlier way to dispose of organic kitchen waste. Like garburators, they are installed under the kitchen sink and come with either a wall switch or air switch for easy activation.

Is There a Real Difference?

Functionally, no there is no difference between a garburator and a garbage disposal. They refer to the same machine but are named differently based on location:

• Garburator: Common term in Canada 
• Garbage Disposal: Common term in the United States 

Interestingly, “Garburator” actually started as a brand name but eventually became a generic term, much like “Kleenex” for tissues or “Band-Aid” for bandages. Over time, the name stuck, and today it’s widely accepted in Canadian English.

So, whether someone calls it a garburator or a garbage disposal, they’re talking about the same kitchen appliance.

 

Benefits of a Garburator or Garbage Disposal

Installing one of these appliances offers several advantages:

1. Convenience

Food waste disposal becomes fast and efficient. No more scraping plates into the trash can or dealing with smelly garbage bags.

2. Cleaner Kitchen

With less food waste sitting in your garbage, your kitchen will smell fresher and attract fewer pests.

3. Environmental Impact

Sending organic waste through the sewage system can be more environmentally friendly than tossing it into the garbage. Some treatment plants even convert food waste into renewable energy or compost.

Important Considerations Before Installing

Before choosing a garburator or garbage disposal, here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Local Plumbing Codes: Some municipalities may restrict their use due to older plumbing infrastructure. 
• Septic Systems: If your home uses a septic tank, consult a professional plumber first not all disposals are septic-safe. 
• Usage Habits: Never put grease, bones, fibrous vegetables, or non-food items into the disposal unit. Doing so may clog your pipes or damage the appliance. 

When comparing garburator vs garbage disposal, it’s clear that they’re two names for the same helpful kitchen tool. The main distinction lies in geography: Canadians use “garburator” while Americans use “garbage disposal.” Whichever term you prefer, both offer an easy and efficient solution for disposing of food waste.

If you’re ready to install one in your home or need professional guidance on choosing the right system, contact the experts at Benner Plumbing & Heating. With decades of experience in residential plumbing and heating services, we can help you select, install, and maintain the ideal kitchen waste solution. Let Benner Plumbing & Heating keep your kitchen running smoothly one grind at a time.