The garbage disposals in this Insinkerator Badger 1 vs. Badger 5 comparison are great options. They are very similar models, with apparent differences that could help to sway you in one direction or the other. But, which model is right for you?
No one really thinks about a garbage disposal until it’s time to use it or replace it. They are located underneath the sink so you probably never see it. It’s one of those out of sight, out of mind, kind of things.
Below, take a look at all of the information about these two well-made budget friendly garbage disposals before you buy.
Click here to see price for the Insinkerator Badger 1
Click here to see price for the Insinkerator Badger 5
Table of Contents
Check out these other garbage disposal comparisons:
InSinkErator Badger vs Evolution Garbage Disposal Comparison
The Insinkerator Evolution Supreme vs Excel Garbage Disposal Comparison
Appearance and Size
Unlike the two garbage disposals in the Insinkerator Evolution Supreme vs Excel, these models are quite modest in appearance. They look like standard disposals. And really that’s all you need for an appliance that is unseen 99% of the time. Both units are black and have an industrial look and feel.
They are pretty much the same size, the Badger 1 weighs 12.7 pounds compared to 13.6 for the Badger 5. Based on the dimensions, they are within an inch of each other.
Power and Performance
Both of these units appear to be well-made and should meet your expectations. They come highly recommended by plumbers. Below you will see what these machines are capable of performance wise and you will see why we think these units worthy of your consideration. For the most part these machines are pretty much the same.
- Horsepower – The Badger 1 has a respectable 1/3rd horsepower while the Badger 5 has a ½ horsepower. That makes the Badger 5 about 50% more powerful. This will certainly make a big difference in performance. This is the only difference between the two that I’ve come across.
- Grind Technology – Both of these machines were made with one-stage grind technology. This system includes a grind shear ring that nearly liquefies foods so that they can easily pass through your pipes and the sewer system. This makes a garbage using a garbage disposal a green activity. Instead of your food waste going to the dump. It can be processed into clean energy.
- Capacity – Both of these units have a grind chamber capacity of 26-ounces. This is large enough to grind a lot of food waste at once but be careful not to overload it.
Installation
All Insinkerator garbage disposals come with the stainless steel quick lock sink mount. This makes the installation process simple for both of these machines. If you need to replace the unit, the uninstall process is just as easy.
Get more details on the Badger 1
Get more details on the Badger 5
Although the installation process is easy, you need to be aware that everything is not included in the box for installation. You will need to purchase the power cord and dishwasher connection kit separately (if you need it).
Everything else that you need is included in the box however. You get the garbage disposal, the Quick Lock Sink mount, Jam-Buster wrench (the need to use this tool should be limited if you follow the do’s and don’ts guide), tailpipe, tailpipe gasket, and the stopper.
Warranty
The warranty for both of these garbage disposals is one-year. What I like about Insinkerator products is that is that the warranty covers parts and labor. They come to you when have an issue. So you don’t have to worry about disassembly, reinstallation and the mess and headache that comes with all of that.
Important Note: Both of these products are made in the USA.
Noise Level
Well, these are standard budget-friendly garbage disposals, so they are going to be pretty loud. But they shouldn’t be any louder than the one you’re use to now.
If you are looking for a unit that isn’t as loud then you should check out the Insinkerator Evolution. It is a lot quieter but it will also cost you a lot more money.
Common Complaints
I’ve come customers for both of these machines and there are more than a few who’ve had an issue with leaks at the bottom of the unit. Once you notice the leaking, it typically means that you will need a new garbage disposal.
I’ve reported this issue here because I’ve seen it crop up more than a few times. There is a chance that this issue lies in the manufacturing process although it could be a result of customer misuse or improper installation.
Like most products that I come across, you will find that many customers praise it, and a relative few have issues with it. I’ve come across several users who were extremely satisfied with their older Insinkerator unit and decided to buy the same one again.
Summary
When it comes to the two machines in the Insinkerator Badger 5 vs Badger 1, I would go with the 5 hands down. The 5 has ½ horsepower compared to 1/3rd for the 1. So, after considering the prices, customer reviews, and the power, I think that this is the obvious choice. In fact, I’ve come across customers who wanted to upgrade from the 1 to the 5 just for the increase in power.
Insinkerator Badger 1 – Check Price
Insinkerator Badger 5 – Check Price
Do they use the same power cords? I’m replacing #1 with #5… should I buy the new power cord?
Do the connections line up the same between two models? Looking to replace the Badger 5 with Badger 1.
Looking at Insinkerator’s web site, the connection layout between the B1, B5, and B5XP is the same.