Does the Garbage Disposal Need Repairs?

Signs That the Garbage Disposal Need Repair or Replacement 

The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors reports that garbage disposals should last around 12 years. During that time, parts may need replacing, repairs may be needed, and blades may need to be sharpened. But how can homeowners tell the disposal needs professional attention? In this short guide, homeowners can learn the signs that something is wrong with a garbage disposal that needs a professional’s attention. 

Odd Sounds 

A garbage disposal will make noise as it minces waste. However, it should not make: 

• Humming sounds: This means that the motor is trying to turn on but can’t. This could be an issue with the power supply, or it could mean something’s caught in the blades. 
• Rattling or screeching noises: These sounds metal can make likely mean that a part of the garbage disposal has come loose or something is stuck inside, like a utensil that has fallen down the drain. A plumber can tighten any components that have come loose over time or replace them, depending on their age, and find and remove anything that may be stuck inside. 
• No sound at all: A garbage disposal makes noise as it runs. If it doesn’t turn on and makes no sound, the issue could lie with the power source. 
• Buzzing: This could indicate multiple problems with the garbage disposal, from a jam in the motor to a burnt-out battery. 

Attempting to fix garbage disposals without professional training can be dangerous. DIY repairs could end up damaging the system further or result in injury if it turns on unexpectedly, so homeowners should call professionals to fix them. 

It Doesn’t Work Well 

Some more common signs that a garbage disposal isn’t working well and warrant a professional’s attention include the following: 

• Frequent clogs: If the garbage disposal’s blades don’t properly chop up waste, the remnants can get stuck in the plumbing system. In addition to clogs, this can lead to slow draining. 
• Reset button must be frequently used: If the reset button has to be used often to restart the disposal, there is an issue that needs attention. Garbage disposals can trip and shut off due to problems like overheating and jams. 
• It takes too long to chop up waste: A garbage disposal should mince waste quickly. If one has to keep the system on for several minutes, this likely means that the blades need replacing or sharpening. 

The Garbage Disposal Smells Bad 

The point of installing a garbage disposal in the kitchen sink drain is to shred and get rid of waste. So, the kitchen sink shouldn’t smell bad. If it does, this likely means that food is clogged and stuck in the pipes or the disposal itself. Homeowners can run ice cubes in the garbage disposal to help dislodge any food waste stuck on it. However, if this doesn’t work, plumbers can help find and remedy the problem. 

There are also ways homeowners can help prevent clogs in the pipes and things from getting stuck in the disposal. Along with ice cubes, running cold water while the disposal is on helps waste go down the drain and not get stuck. In addition, only put a little food waste down the disposal at a time and avoid putting particular food waste down the drain and disposal at all. Grease and oil, coffee grounds, eggshells, vegetable scraps, and water-absorbent foods like pasta and rice shouldn’t be put in a garbage disposal.  

About Heidler, Inc. 

Heidler, Inc. is a family-owned and operated plumbing company serving Annapolis and the surrounding areas. They provide flat rates, live assistance when you call, and on-time arrival. Call them today for garbage disposal repair and installation in Annapolis, MD. 

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