This was an exact replacement garbage disposal. The previous unit lasted about 12 years. I think it would have lasted a lot longer if I would have taken the time and effort to route the dishwasher discharge directly into the drain opposed to going through the garbage disposal. The dishwasher drain water is vary caustic and eat away the metal inside the disposal and causes it to leak. Make sure you take the time to do it correctly and this unit will last a long, long time.