DIY Network

Sinking With Choices ... Garbage Disposer Concerns

Ed Del Grande, host of Ed the Plumber, gives tips on choosing a sink and then tells how it is possible to have a disposer and a septic system in the same house.

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There are dozens of bathroom sink types out there and it can be frustrating to pick one if you don't know the differences. (SHNS photo courtesy of Kohler)

Q: Ed, you are America's go-to guy regarding plumbing questions! My husband and I are redoing our bathroom, and we're having heated discussions on the type of sink to get. I never thought we'd have so many choices or, in our case, arguments! Please help us with some information. We both agree we'll listen to you because you seem to settle a lot of plumbing issues between couples! -- Rose and Charlie, Chicago

A: Rose, I thank you and Charlie for your trust in my decorating skills--this is something my wife has no trust in! All I can do is tell you about the styles that are now available to you, and you guys will have to decide on your own. I understand completely how you can be confused because nowadays there are dozens of bathroom sink types out there and it can be frustrating to pick one if you don't know the differences. So here is my list (in no particular order) of the most popular lavatory sinks from which to choose:

Countertop: This drop-in style sink will fit into a vanity countertop and it's usually self rimming to seal against the countertop nicely. You will have to cut a hole in the countertop to fit the sink specifications.

Under counter: Similar to the countertop, but like the name says, the sinks mounts underneath the vanity countertop for a bolder, more modern look.

Vessel sink: This is a high-end sink that looks more like a China wash basin or decorative bowl that sits on a countertop. Installation costs are usually higher as well!

Wall hung: Like the name says, it hangs on the wall to save space in smaller bathrooms. Wall mounting also increases accessibility for special-needs bathrooms.

Pedestal base: This type of sink refuses to go away! It's been around forever and is still very popular and can be used for any style bathroom.

Well, Rose, I hope that gives you a little more information. And on a personal note, don't let your marriage go down the drain over a silly sink issue!

Q: Hello, Ed! I'm moving into a new housing development that uses a septic system instead of the city sewer system. I was told that a garbage disposer cannot be used with a septic system. Is this true? I thank you for taking the time to help me out. -- Richard, Florida

A: Since it's a housing development, you will first have to check with the association or your building inspector to see what your rules are. If they say you can't, well that's the rule of your development, and you can't install the disposer. However, if you have a private single-family home and your codes allow it, you can usually choose to install a disposer even if you have a septic system.

I have a septic system and use a disposer in my own home. The main concern is the added material from grinding food may cause the septic system to clog up or develop problems down the road. Regular maintenance on the septic tank will cut down the chances of a problem, and many manufacturers are making disposers just for septic-system use. Bottom line is many houses that have a septic system also have a garbage disposer. But you need to check your local codes, or you could end up in a real grind!

(Ed Del Grande is a certified master plumber and hosts DIY's Ed the Plumber. Send plumbing questions to him at edtheplumber@diynetwork.com. For building-code concerns, always contact your local government office or a local licensed plumber. Distributed by Scripps Howard News Service.)

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