This repair guide is designed to help you troubleshoot and fix your garbage disposal efficiently.
Need a Replacement Garbage Disposal?
InSinkErator Badger 5 Garbage Disposal, Standard Series 1/2 HP Continuous Feed Food Waste Disposer, Black, Set of 1
Price: $114.00
How Much Does This Repair Cost?
| Repair route | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Do it yourself | $5–$15 (parts) |
| Professional repair | $75–$150 (parts and labor) |
If you’re looking to tackle this repair yourself, you can expect to spend around $5–$15 on a replacement reset button or flywheel wrench. If a jam requires a new grinding plate assembly, that’ll run you about $20–$35. On the other hand, hiring a professional for this repair typically costs between $75–$150, including labor. If you opt for a full unit replacement by a plumber, you could be looking at $200–$300.
Recommended Products
Based on my experience, here are the parts and tools I recommend for this repair, ensuring compatibility and good customer reviews:
- InSinkErator in-Sink-Erator Standard Mounting Gasket, Black Color
- InSinkErator Badger 5 Garbage Disposal, Badger Series 1/2 HP Continuous Feed Food Waste Disposer
- InSinkErator Badger 5 Garbage Disposal with Power Cord, Badger Series 1/2 HP Continuous Feed Food Waste Disposer
- 2 PCS/Set Garbage Disposal Unjamming Wrench, Garbage Disposal Unjamming 1037 for Moen/Waste King Garbage Disposals and Garbage Disposal Wrench For InSinkErator WRN-00
The Badger 5 Replacement That Saves You from Starting Over
When I’ve diagnosed a dead Badger 5 and the motor is unresponsive to resets or manual unjamming, I often find that replacement is the quickest solution. The Badger 5 is sturdy, but when the motor fails or the housing cracks, a complete unit replacement is necessary—and this model is the perfect drop-in fix for most homeowners.
What works
- Installs directly into existing sink flanges and mounting hardware from the original Badger 5—no need for adapter fittings or re-plumbing.
- The 1/2 HP motor is reliable for typical household use, handling the same drain load as the unit you’re replacing, preventing food waste backups.
- Continuous feed design aligns with what most homeowners are already accustomed to, so there’s no learning curve after installation.
What doesn’t
- If your sink flange is corroded or the mounting ring is damaged, the new unit won’t seal properly. You’ll need to replace the flange assembly first, which could add another $30–50 and an extra hour of work.
- This standard version doesn’t come with a power cord, so if your old disposal was hardwired and there’s no nearby outlet, you’ll need either an electrician visit or a version with a cord.
The common issue I encounter is homeowners ordering this unit without confirming the sink’s mounting hardware is in good condition. I’ve had callbacks where the flange was too corroded, and the new disposal wouldn’t seat properly. Always inspect your sink opening and test the mounting ring before placing your order. InSinkErator Badger 5 Garbage Disposal, Standard Series 1/2 HP Continuous Feed Food Waste Disposer, Black, Set of 1
About This Article
Written by Dave Holt. I have been taking apart and fixing household appliances since I was a teenager who couldn't leave a broken one alone. Eighteen years later, after fixing things for neighbors, friends, and anyone who'd let me, I have seen almost every failure mode there is — and misdiagnosed my share along the way. I am self-taught, with no formal training or certifications. When I write a repair guide here, it is based on the actual job, not a manufacturer overview. More about this site.
Scope and limits. Dave is a self-taught repairer, not a certified appliance technician. Unplug before you open anything, and leave sealed refrigeration systems, gas connections, and hardwired circuits to a qualified technician.
