How Long Do Garbage Disposals Last?

If good practices are in place a garbage disposal, or garburator, should last well over a decade. Learn about the factors that can impact garbage disposal lifespan and the regular maintenance and garbage disposal repair that can be done to make your disposal last for up to 15 years.

What Impacts Garbage Disposal Lifespan?

Ultimately, three factors can be attributed to impacting garbage disposal lifespan:

1. Quality of the Garbage Disposal
   Newer, modern garbage disposals last longer than their older counterparts. Purchasing a new, heavy-duty garbage disposal instead of a cheaper option is an easy investment that will pay off in the long run.
2. What is Put Down the Disposal
   The items you place in your garbage disposal play a huge factor in your garbage disposal lifespan. For instance, if you regularly put grease and fibrous foods down the garbage disposal, your motor and blades will be more impacted than someone who chooses to only put fruit and vegetable scraps down their disposal.
3. Garbage Disposal Usage
   It’s not just what you put down the garbage disposal, it’s how often. The more you use your garbage disposal, the more the motor and blades are being used, which impacts garbage disposal lifespan.

What Should I Not Put Down My Garbage Disposal?

One of the most proactive things you can do to increase your garbage disposal lifespan is making sure you know what can and can’t be put down your garbage disposal.

These are items that should never go down your garbage disposal:

• Fibrous foods (such as potato peels, onion skin and asparagus)
• Coffee grounds
• Eggshells
• Oil and grease
• Bones
• Uncooked pasta and rice
• Nuts
• Items that are not food (paper scraps, cigarette butts, glass)

These are items that can safely be put down your garbage disposal:

• Non-starchy fruits and vegetable scraps
• Liquids and soft foods
• Chopped foods
• Citrus rinds
• Ice cubes

How to Extend Garbage Disposal Lifespan

At the first sign of an issue, schedule garbage disposal repair services immediately. This will eliminate the possibility of any further damage to the unit. While you’re on the phone with your plumber, schedule home plumbing diagnosis and check-up services to ensure there are no leaks or clogs that are making it difficult for your garbage disposal to operate.

Following a proper maintenance and cleaning schedule can easily earn you 15 years of use out of your garbage disposal. Eventually, the motor will burn out or the blades will wear down. But by regularly checking your disposal and cleaning it, you can delay its inevitable demise.

Try this trick to clean grime off the garbage disposal blades: pour equal parts vinegar and baking soda into the unit (while it’s turned off). After the mixture stops foaming, rinse it with hot water. Repeat monthly to ensure your garbage disposal is clean and in proper working order.

Full-Service Garbage Disposal Services

If you are ready to schedule garbage disposal installation or garbage disposal repair services, Mr. Rooter^® Plumbing is here to help. With upfront pricing and convenient appointment times, you can receive affordable services on your schedule. Don’t delay – call or schedule an appointment online with your local Mr. Rooter Plumbing.