InSinkErator Badger 5XP (3/4 HP) Garbage Disposal Review

InSinkErator Badger 5XP (3/4 HP) Garbage Disposal Review

The InSinkErator Badger 5XP is the heavy-hitter of the Badger line-up. With a 3/4 HP Dura-Drive induction motor packed into the familiar Badger body, it delivers noticeably more grinding power than the entry-level Badger 1 and mid-range Badger 5. This review walks through how the Badger 5XP performs in real kitchens, who it suits best, and whether it’s worth the upgrade if you’re already considering a standard Badger.

Quick Specs: Badger 5XP at a Glance

• Horsepower: 3/4 HP Dura-Drive induction motor
• Series: Badger (Standard Series)
• Feed Type: Continuous feed
• Grind Components: Galvanized steel
• Grind Chamber Capacity: approx. 26 oz
• Overall Height: around 12.6 inches
• Warranty: Typically 4-year limited in-home service (check current listing)
• Best For: Busy households that want extra power without stepping up to an Evolution model

Who the InSinkErator Badger 5XP Is Best For

The Badger 5XP is built for households that cook regularly and don’t want to baby their disposal. It’s a strong fit if you:

• Cook for a family several times per week and often have a full sink of scraps
• Want more confidence grinding denser items than a 1/3 or 1/2 HP disposer comfortably handles
• Prefer to stay in the familiar Badger family rather than jumping into the more expensive Evolution line

If you’ve ever felt like your current disposer strains under load, the 5XP’s extra torque is immediately noticeable. It still isn’t designed for bones and abuse, but it shrugs off the kind of everyday food waste that would make an entry-level unit bog down or jam.

Real-World Performance & Noise

With 3/4 HP on tap, the Badger 5XP is one of the strongest disposers that still looks and mounts like a classic Badger. Owners report that it powers through typical kitchen scraps with ease – think vegetable trimmings, plate scrapings, softer leftovers, and many of the small, dense bits that give lower-powered units trouble.

A few usage habits will always get you the best result:

• Let cold water run before, during and after grinding
• Feed scraps gradually instead of dumping an entire bowl at once
• Cut very large or fibrous pieces into smaller chunks before feeding them in

Noise-wise, the Badger 5XP is still part of the Standard Series, so you don’t get the advanced SoundSeal insulation of Evolution models. That said, reviewers often comment that it’s quieter than they expected for a 3/4 HP disposer, especially when installed with firm, rattle-free mounting hardware and a good sink baffle.

What Real Owners Are Saying

On Amazon, the InSinkErator Badger 5XP holds a strong 4.6 out of 5 stars from more than 5,400 global ratings. The majority of buyers give it a full 5 stars, and common themes run through the reviews:

• Powerful, noticeable upgrade: Many owners upgraded from a 1/2 HP disposer and immediately noticed the extra power. Several reviews mention that it handles inch-sized kitchen debris and denser scraps with less strain.
• Easy to install, especially as a replacement: Homeowners who have installed other disposers say the 5XP went in smoothly and lined up well with their existing brackets and plumbing, particularly when replacing another InSinkErator unit.
• Quieter than expected for a 3/4 HP unit: While it isn’t silent, multiple reviewers were pleasantly surprised by the noise level, describing it as relatively quiet once mounted solidly under the sink.
• Great value for performance: A lot of reviewers feel the 5XP hits a sweet spot – more power and a longer warranty than basic models without the price jump of top-tier disposers.
• Mixed experiences with longevity: Most customers report years of reliable service, but a small number mention early failures around the 6–12 month mark – a reminder to register the warranty and keep your proof of purchase.

Overall, real-world feedback backs up the spec sheet: the Badger 5XP is a serious step up in muscle while still being approachable for DIY installation.

Installation & Compatibility

The Badger 5XP uses InSinkErator’s Quick Lock sink mount, which is one of the easiest systems to work with if you’re replacing an older disposer. In many cases you can reuse the existing InSinkErator mounting assembly, twist off the old unit and twist the 5XP into place.

For new installs or brand swaps, you’ll need to fit the supplied sink flange and mounting hardware, but the instructions are clear and most confident DIYers can handle the job in about an hour with basic tools. Be sure to:

• Use plumber’s putty under the sink flange to prevent leaks
• Support the disposer from below while tightening the mounting ring
• Check that the dishwasher knockout has been removed if you’re connecting a dishwasher
• Use a proper cable clamp and follow local electrical codes if hard-wiring

The body of the 5XP is slightly taller than a Badger 1 or 5, but still compact enough for most standard under-sink cabinets. If your space is extremely tight or you have a lot of other equipment under the sink, it’s worth measuring carefully before buying.

Durability, Warranty & Build Quality

The Badger 5XP uses galvanized steel grind components rather than stainless steel, which helps keep costs down while still providing solid durability for most households. Combined with the more powerful motor and longer typical warranty period, it’s a meaningful upgrade over the lower-horsepower Badger models.

To maximize lifespan:

• Avoid highly corrosive chemicals or drain openers in the disposer
• Use it regularly so the motor and grind components don’t sit wet and unused for long periods
• Flush with water after grinding to wash away remaining particles

Badger 5XP vs Other Badger Models

If you’re comparing across the Badger range, here’s where the 5XP fits relative to the other models:

If you’re already stretching the limits of a 1/2 HP disposer or you simply want more breathing room for future use, the Badger 5XP is usually worth the small extra investment.

The InSinkEratorReviews Quick Verdict

The InSinkErator Badger 5XP is one of our favorite “power user” choices in the standard Badger range. It gives you more muscle, a longer typical warranty and a noticeable performance upgrade over the Badger 5, while still using the familiar mounting system and footprint.

For busy kitchens that cook most nights of the week, or for owners replacing a tired older unit who don’t want to regret going too small, the 5XP hits a sweet spot between price and power. If you’re a very light user, the Badger 1 or 5 might be more cost-effective. But if you want a disposer that feels like it has plenty in reserve, the 5XP is the Badger to beat.

Pros & Cons

What We Like

• Strong 3/4 HP motor for confident grinding under heavier loads
• Quick Lock mount makes upgrades from older InSinkErator units straightforward
• Compact enough to fit most standard under-sink cabinets
• Excellent owner ratings with many long-term positive experiences
• Great value for those who want more power without going to top-tier premium models

What Could Be Better

• Still uses galvanized steel components, not stainless
• No advanced sound insulation like Evolution disposers
• Requires careful measuring in very tight cabinet spaces due to extra height
• A small number of owners report early failures, so registration and proper installation are important

Everyday Use & Maintenance Tips

To keep the Badger 5XP running smoothly for years:

• Run a strong stream of cold water while grinding and for several seconds afterward
• Avoid fibrous materials (corn husks, celery strings), large bones, and non-food items
• Grind a few ice cubes occasionally to help scour the chamber
• Use citrus peels or a disposal cleaner to freshen odors instead of harsh chemicals

Badger 5XP: Is It the Right Choice for You?

If your household cooks often, you entertain regularly, or you simply want a disposer that feels like it has extra power in reserve, the InSinkErator Badger 5XP is a very compelling option. It doesn’t have every premium feature on the market, but it nails the fundamentals: strong grinding performance, straightforward installation, a fair warranty and a price that still fits the standard Badger category.

For a deeper dive into how it fits with the rest of the range, don’t miss our full Badger Series Buyer’s Guide, where we compare horsepower, size, warranty and ideal use cases across each model.

InSinkErator Badger 5XP FAQs

Is the Badger 5XP worth the upgrade over the Badger 5?

For light users, the standard Badger 5 is often enough. But if you cook often, grind denser scraps, or just want more margin against jams and stalls, the Badger 5XP’s 3/4 HP motor and longer typical warranty make it a worthwhile upgrade for many households.

How loud is the Badger 5XP?

The Badger 5XP is not as quiet as insulated Evolution models, but many owners describe it as quieter than expected for a 3/4 HP disposer. Proper mounting, a snug sink baffle and using running water all help keep noise at a comfortable level.

Can I install the Badger 5XP myself?

Yes, many homeowners install the Badger 5XP themselves, especially when replacing an existing InSinkErator disposer with the same mounting system. If you are not comfortable with plumbing or electrical work, hiring a professional is always a safe option.

Does the Badger 5XP come with a power cord?

Some versions of the Badger 5XP are sold with a factory-installed power cord, while others are designed for hard-wired installation. Always check the specific product listing details, and if needed, you can purchase a compatible InSinkErator power cord kit separately.

How long should an InSinkErator Badger 5XP last?

With proper installation and reasonable use, many owners see years of service from the Badger 5XP. Regular use, good grinding habits and avoiding harsh chemicals or inappropriate items help maximize its lifespan.

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