Garbage disposal repair is not the most simple job. In fact, it’s downright dangerous. Save your fingers and trust garbage disposal to your personal plumber at Apollo Plumbing.
Do You Need Garbage Disposal Repair?
If it is exhibiting any of the following signs, you may need garbage disposal repair:
- Fails to Turn On
- Clicking or Grating Sounds
- Does Not Drain Efficiently
- Does Not Grind Food
- Smoke Coming From Disposal
Being Kind To Your Garbage Disposal Saves You Money
When used correctly and cared for, garbage disposals last for years. Even though they’re commonplace, disposals are often misused. While Apollo Plumbing is ready 24 hours of every day to help, following these steps could save you from costly repairs.
- Turn on cold water and the disposal; allow it to run a few moments
- Scrape most food off plates before rinsing the rest into your garbage disposal
- Afterward, allow cold water to run for two minutes after turning off your disposal.
Remember to avoid bones, celery, coffee grounds, egg shells, fruit pits, grease and potato peels. These items will dull or clog your disposal.
Signs You Need Garbage Disposal Replacement
Even with regular maintenance and the best care, every garbage disposal reaches a point where repair is no longer the cost-effective option. Here are some signs that your unit might be ready for a replacement:
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Frequent Breakdowns
If you find yourself calling for repairs more than once or twice a year, it might be time for a new unit. Repeated issues can add up fast and often signal a failing disposal. -
Persistent Unpleasant Odors
Sometimes, deep cleaning can remove lingering smells. However, if odors persist even after thorough cleaning, internal components may be too worn to stay clean and fresh. -
Excessive Vibrations and Noise
A certain amount of noise is normal. But loud, unusual grinding or clanking often points to irreparable damage inside. Excessive rattling can indicate the motor or impellers are nearing the end of their service life. -
Leaks and Corrosion
Occasional drips from loose fittings are usually easy to fix. However, visible corrosion or cracks in the disposal housing suggest a more serious problem that often calls for a full replacement. -
Weak or Inefficient Grinding
If your disposal struggles to grind even soft scraps and constantly jams, consider switching to a newer, more powerful model. An underperforming unit may never regain its original efficiency.
When these warning signs start popping up, it may be more budget-friendly to upgrade than to keep patching an old, failing disposal. Apollo Plumbing has an array of new disposal models sized to fit your needs, installed with care by your personal plumber.
Trust Apollo Plumbing For Garbage Disposal Repair & Installation
If the worst happens and your disposal quits, don’t fret. Apollo Plumbers are ready right now to diagnose and repair your garbage disposal. You call. We come. It’s fixed. At an up-front no surprise price.
Apollo Plumbing also offers a variety of replacement garbage disposals sized to fit your specific needs. Whatever the issue, we’re not done till you’re delighted. That’s because we want to be your personal plumber.
FAQs
How long does a typical garbage disposal last?
Most garbage disposals work well for around 8 to 15 years. Proper care and routine maintenance can help maximize their lifespan.
How do I know whether to repair or replace my unit?
If your disposal is still relatively new and the issue is minor—like a jam or a simple wiring repair—fixes are often enough. However, repeated breakdowns, leaks, and chronic odors can be signs it’s time for a full replacement.
Are there certain foods I should never put down my garbage disposal?
Yes. Avoid fibrous items like celery, starchy items like potato peels, and hard materials like bones or fruit pits. Grease can also cause blockages or damage the disposal’s parts over time.
Can I install a new garbage disposal on my own?
Some homeowners handle installations themselves, but the process involves electrical and plumbing connections. Trusting Apollo Plumbing ensures safe installation and helps you avoid costly mistakes.
Will a bigger disposal solve all my problems?
A larger motor can help with grinding, but proper usage and maintenance are still key. An undersized unit struggles to handle demand, but oversizing a disposal isn’t always necessary. Apollo Plumbing can help find the right fit for your home.
