What are common garbage disposal problems?
There are three main garbage disposal problems homeowners are likely to experience:
- Burnt out a motor: This is often due to age or a unit that has overworked itself. The motor may simply shut down and stop working entirely. This will usually require a replacement.
- Broken blades: Hard-to-shred items can damage your disposal’s blades. This can significantly reduce the efficiency of your unit.
- Jammed disposal: Food may be lodged near the blade, preventing it from rotating. This leads to drain clogs as food items that fail to shred properly build up in your drain.
If you are experiencing any of the above problems with your garbage disposal, we can unjam the existing unit or replace it with a new garbage disposal.
When should you repair vs. replace?
A garbage disposal is generally one of the most affordable appliances in your home. You may be wondering if it is more cost-effective to simply replace it instead of repairing it if there is a problem.
Many disposals can be restored to normal operation by unjamming them, provided the problem is not too extensive.
However, there are instances when the disposal is no longer functional and a replacement is necessary. If your unit needs constant repairs, it will prove more cost-effective to replace the entire unit with a more efficient one.
When you call us for an inspection, we will present you with options for repair or replacement so you can make the best decision.
What are easy disposal maintenance tips?
There are several tips you can follow to enjoy extended efficiency from your garbage disposal.
- If your disposal has stopped working, press the red reset button located on the exterior of the unit. This may remedy the situation.
- To prevent clogs, only place small amounts of food into the disposal at a time.
- Avoid placing potato peels, pasta, banana skins, meat bones, oil, grease, coffee grounds, fibrous vegetables, eggshells, and other hard-to-shred items in the disposal.
- However, we recommend grinding ice cubes to scour your disposal’s walls.
- Grind citrus peels to keep your drain smelling fresh.
- Run your disposal on a regular basis. This will help prevent rust from developing in the unit, while also making sure blockages don’t build up.
- Let cold water run while your disposal is working. This prevents the motor and other components from overheating, while also helping to push the waste down the drain.
