Garbage disposals are an essential component of any modern kitchen. They provide a convenient and efficient way to dispose of food scraps and reduce the amount of waste that goes into landfills.
But what if it breaks and you don’t have any experience with fixing this plumbing problem? When this happens, it’s important to know who to call for garbage disposal repair in Prescott, Arizona.
Who to Call for Garbage Disposal Repair?
When your garbage disposal is not functioning properly, the first thing you should do is call a professional plumber. We are trained to diagnose and fix a wide range of plumbing problems, including issues with garbage disposal plumbing problems.
Plumbers have the knowledge, tools, and expertise necessary to identify the root cause of the problem and take appropriate steps to repair or replace the garbage disposal unit if necessary.
We can also help with garbage disposal repair in several ways, and these are what we can do for you:
- Perform a thorough inspection of the kitchen sink disposal to determine the source of the problem
- Disassemble the disposal
- Check for food waste clogs or damage to the blades
- Test the electrical components
- Recommend the best course of action to fix garbage disposals
- Conduct garbage disposal installation
Common Reasons Why Garbage Disposal Breaks
Here are some common reasons why garbage disposals break down:
Improper use
One of the most common reasons why garbage disposals break down is because they are used improperly. Food waste that is too large, and even fibrous foods can damage the blades or clog the drain pipes.
For example, eggshells, potato peels, and coffee grounds should not be put down the disposal as they can form a paste that clogs the drain.
Dull blades
Over time, the blades in the garbage disposal can become dull or worn, which can make it harder for them to break down food waste. This can also cause the disposal to make loud, grinding noises.
Clogs
Clogs in the drain pipes can cause water and food waste to back up into the disposal, which can cause it to stop working. This can be caused by items that are too large or too tough for the disposal to handle, as well as by grease or fat that solidifies in the pipes.
Electrical Issues
Electrical problems, such as a tripped circuit breaker or a faulty electrical connection, can cause the garbage disposal to stop working.
Age of the Garbage Disposal Unit
Like any appliance, garbage disposals have a limited lifespan. Over time, the components in the disposal can wear out or become damaged, which can cause them to stop working.
Garbage Disposal Repair Cost
The cost of garbage disposal repair averages about $120 on a national scale. But this price can still vary depending on certain factors like the extent of the damage, type of repair, and labor cost.
Here’s a closer look at what you can expect for your garbage disposal repair expenses:
| ISSUE / TASK | COST |
| Jammed garbage disposal unit | $75-100 |
| Clogged garbage disposal on kitchen sink | $150-200 |
| Leaking garbage disposal | $150-$700 |
| Faulty switch | $0-$100 |
| Installation of new garbage disposal | $50 and $350, excluding labor |
[Read more: Average Garbage Disposal Repair Cost In Arizona]
Is it Worth it to Repair a Garbage Disposal?
This decision ultimately depends on several factors, such as the age and condition of the disposal, the severity of the problem, and the cost of repairs. In general, if your garbage disposal is less than five years old and the problem is minor, it’s usually worth it to repair the disposal rather than replace it.
However, if it is more than five years old and the problem is severe or if the cost of repairs is more than half the cost of new disposal, it’s usually more cost-effective to replace the current unit. Professional plumbers can help you make the best decision for your plumbing system issue.
What Can You Do If Your Garbage Disposal Stops Working?
If your garbage disposal stops working, the first thing that you should do is reach out to a trusted plumber. But before the professional arrives at your home, there are some things that you can do to prevent further damage.
First, you have to make sure that the garbage disposal is currently plugged in and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped.
You can also try resetting the disposal by pressing the reset button located at the bottom of the unit. If these things still don’t work, it is highly recommended to wait for the plumber as attempting to repair the disposal unit by yourself can be dangerous.
Can I Run My Dishwasher If My Garbage Disposal Isn’t Working?
Most dishwashers are connected to the garbage disposal; so it’s generally not recommended to run your dishwasher if your disposal unit is not working. When you run your dishwasher, food scraps and other debris from your dishes are washed down the drain and into the garbage disposal. If the disposal is not working, these scraps can accumulate and clog the drain, causing water to back up into the dishwasher.
[Related: 8 Tricks When Cleaning a Blocked Drain At Home]
Looking for a Reliable Garbage Disposal Repair Service?
By the rule of thumb, you should always call a professional plumber when it comes to fixing issues with your garbage disposal at home. With over 20 years of expertise, Stellar Plumbing can provide you with top-notch repair projects and garbage disposal installation. Contact us today!