Garbage disposals shred food waste, help prevent your kitchen sink from drain clogs, and cut down on the amount of waste in your trash cans. We use them in our homes so thoughtlessly, but they make cooking and food prepping so much easier! However, just like any other mechanical device, they can have issues that require repair or replacement, significantly if something that shouldn’t be disposed of gets dropped into the kitchen sink. Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Amrillo is experienced with all different types of disposals. We can quickly establish the problem and offer suggestions for repair or sometimes replacement of your garbage disposal.
Common Garbage Disposal Issues
One of the most common problems with garbage disposals is when something becomes lodged within the blades and jams the mechanism from turning. This can happen with anything from a piece of food to a kitchen rag to anything accidentally dropped into the sink. Sometimes, it is possible to dislodge the item, but it is best to call a professional plumber due to the danger of injury.
Another frequent problem is clogging of the disposal. With so much food debris going down the disposal, over time, it can become clogged with grease or food scraps such as vegetable peels. A professional plumber has the correct tools to safely take apart your pipes to locate and clear out any clogs that may be occurring before they impact the entire plumbing system.
When a garbage disposal has either of the above problems, it can cause leaks at any point in the disposal unit. Even very small leaks can damage your pipes and parts of your home where they are arising. If your garbage disposal isn’t working as efficiently as it previously was, or if it begins making noise or excessive vibration, you can be sure it is time to call a professional plumber before more damage occurs.
Repairing a Garbage Disposal
- Resetting: If your garbage disposal suddenly stops working, a homeowner can first push the reset button under the sink. If this doesn’t work, or you suspect a more significant issue, it’s best to call a plumber.
- Removing Clogs: Occasionally, a homeowner can plunge the sink to remove simple clogs. However, it is quite unsafe to put any tools into the disposal itself without the experience and training of a professional plumber.
- Calling a Professional Plumber: When you call Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Amarillo, we will quickly find the problem and explain the next steps for repairing your garbage disposal before further issues arise. If the garbage disposal needs replacement, we will help you choose the best one for your home and usage.
When to Replace a Garbage Disposal
- Regular Leaks: Sometimes, a garbage disposal is beyond repair due to damage of the disposal. If it is experiencing frequent leaks, it should be replaced by a professional plumber before damage happens to your pipes or under-sink area.
- Motor Failure: If the motor that runs the disposal burns out or becomes markedly noisy even after repairs, replacing the disposal will likely be necessary. Like any appliance, it can go beyond repair without maintenance and proper usage.
- Lifespan: Garbage disposals can usually last 10-15 years, depending on how often they are used and for what. As with any mechanical appliance, they do not last forever but can be quickly replaced by a plumbing professional.