Look Out for These Signs the Garbage Disposal Needs Repairs

Three Ways To Spot a Broken Garbage Disposal

Having a garbage disposal in the kitchen can make food prep and cleanup a breeze and help prevent clogged pipes by breaking down food scraps into tiny particles before they’re rinsed down the drain. It’s one of those items that many homeowners wonder how they ever went without once they have it.

But garbage disposals can run into several problems, especially if they’re not properly cared for or getting along in years. Unfortunately, it’s all too common for the signs of trouble to go unnoticed or brushed off as minor quirks – only for homeowners to find themselves paying for a garbage disposal replacement long before they should. So to help homeowners fix problems early and avoid a premature replacement, here are three telltale signs it’s time for garbage disposal repair!

Odd Sounds

Garbage disposals are somewhat noisy machines (although some newer models are designed to be remarkably quiet). But while the sounds of the motor whirring and the impellers pulverizing soft food scraps are normal, other sounds are not.

If the garbage disposal is humming when turned on but doesn’t sound like it’s breaking up any food, it’s likely jammed. A utensil, fruit pit, or other hard object may prevent the impellers from spinning, or an internal component may be broken or seized. That humming sound is the motor trying to spin.

If there’s a metallic screeching, rattling, or grinding sound, a part may have come loose or shifted out of alignment. Or, again, a foreign object may have fallen into the grinding chamber. Homeowners can inspect the chamber with a flashlight, then carefully remove any objects they see (if any). They should always ensure the power is off and that they’re not reaching in blind, to avoid injuring themselves on the impellers or sharp bits of broken dishware. If there are no visible objects or a piece of the disposal is broken, it’s time to call a pro.

The Disposal Isn’t Working Properly

If the garbage disposal works but seems to take longer than usual or is less effective at breaking down food, there are a couple of possible culprits. Inside the grinding chamber, metal impellers spin and grind food against the grinding wheel, which has small holes like a cheese grater – this is how garbage disposals break down food. Over time, the impellers and the grinding wheel can get worn down and dull, reducing their efficacy.

Alternatively, the motor may grow weak, or damaged bearings may slow things down. Suppose homeowners frequently have to press the garbage disposal reset button. In that case, this may also indicate that an internal component is failing or that something is causing the unit to short-circuit. These issues can all occur with age, so if it’s an older unit (8+ years), it may make more economic sense to forego repairs and replace the garbage disposal altogether.

Unpleasant Odors

Another indicator of trouble is if the garbage disposal smells bad. In many cases, this is simply the result of food residue and bacteria building up inside the grinding chamber – which can typically be resolved by grinding up some ice cubes or rock salt in the disposal, which will help scour the chamber and remove grime.

However, foul smells from the garbage disposal or kitchen sink drain may also be caused by a partially clogged drain or decaying food caught in the disposal. Fixing clogged garbage disposal is often an intensive and unpleasant undertaking, which may involve taking apart the disposal itself. If the clog is caused by congealed grease further down the drain or in the sewer line (a common problem), it may require special equipment to fully remove. For these reasons, it’s usually best to call a qualified professional to repair garbage disposal!

About Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC

Allore’s Plumbing Services LLC has been the go-to plumber in Stuart, Florida, since 1986. As a veteran-owned local business with a reputation for honesty, affordable pricing, and fast turnarounds, they have earned numerous 5-star reviews and awards, including HomeAdvisor’s “Best Of” and “Elite Service” awards. They offer 24-hour emergency service and guarantee 100% satisfaction on every job, so homeowners know they can depend on Allore’s for garbage disposal repair in Stuart, FL!

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