TLDR Review: null
Verdict
The Insinkerator Badger 5XL is a solid choice if you want a quiet, fairly powerful garbage disposal that's easy to install as a direct replacement for older models. However, if you frequently dispose of tricky foods like eggshells or rice, or if you’re concerned about warranty service and longevity, you might want to consider a disposal with stainless steel components for more durability and fewer operational headaches. Its smaller size and unique installation quirks mean some plumbing tweaks may be necessary. If you want to explore alternatives that highlight sturdier materials or enhanced handling of tough food waste, let us know!
- Top pro:
- Easy installation process, especially if you’re replacing an existing unit with compatible plumbing.
- Top con:
- Struggles to handle common food waste items like eggshells and rice, leading to operational hiccups.
Pros
- •Easy installation process, especially if you’re replacing an existing unit with compatible plumbing.
- •Operates much quieter than older models, which makes kitchen cleanup less annoying.
- •Durable motor and construction, with users reporting previous models lasting up to 20 years.
- •Reasonably priced for the performance and reliability offered.
- •Sufficient power from the 1/2 HP motor to avoid clogging or jamming under normal use.
- •The unit can be rotated after installation to optimize drain trap positioning.
- •Installation typically takes about an hour and requires minimal cleanup.
- •Previous models maintained strong motors throughout their lifespan without slowing down.
Cons
- •Struggles to handle common food waste items like eggshells and rice, leading to operational hiccups.
- •Warranty coverage is somewhat questionable, with some service calls resulting in additional unexpected costs.
- •Frequent grinding failures cause anxiety during use, reducing overall user confidence.
- •Newer design has a smaller diameter requiring extra parts or creative solutions (like spacers) to fit existing plumbing.
- •Installation may require applying extra pressure to properly secure snap rings and align components.
- •The quick connect collar can be tricky to engage alone; an extra pair of hands helps.
- •Reports of planned obsolescence raise concerns about the product’s longevity despite previous long-lasting units.
- •Leakage has been noted near the end of the product’s life cycle.
- •Internal parts are galvanized steel rather than stainless steel, which could lead to rust if the unit is not regularly used.
- •Users express frustration with some installation quirks, such as needing to buy an uncorded unit and additional cords separately.
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How we researched this
About this review: it summarizes the professional reviews and customer ratings ShopSavvy collected for this product, alongside prices from ShopSavvy's price data.
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