Signs Your Garbage Disposal Needs Replaced

Your garbage disposal takes a lot of abuse, so naturally, it is prone to more problems than some of your other kitchen appliances. The average lifespan of garbage disposals is about 12 years, and as they fall on the lower end of the price spectrum when it comes to kitchen appliances, it makes more sense to just replace a worn-out unit than to try to repair it.

How you treat the garbage disposal will depend on how long it lasts. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use common sense about what you put down the sink. For example, don’t expect your garbage disposal to process bones, grease and oil, coffee grounds, fruit and vegetable peels, eggshells, leafy vegetables, or large quantities of uneaten food. The general rule is … if you don’t want it in your stomach, it doesn’t belong in the garbage disposal. And don’t forget to use plenty of cold water whenever you use the disposal.

Plunging your sink to dislodge clogs can sometimes also clear out your disposal. Cleaning out the p-trap under the sink can also work. However, there may be times when your best DIY efforts simply aren’t working, or the disposal is nearing the end of its lifecycle and needs replacing. Here are some warning signs that your garbage disposal needs attention or is on its last legs.

Odd Noises

If your garbage disposal is making loud noises such as clanging, grinding, or whirring, there may be a problem with the blades or motor.

Odors

If a foul odor emanates from your garbage disposal, it could mean that food particles are stuck somewhere in the unit. In this case, you can call a plumber to clean it out; however, if the garbage disposal is old, replace it.

Leaks

If you notice leaking water under your sink, it could be coming from the garbage disposal. The likely causes are a bad seal, or the unit is cracked or corroded. Replacing a seal is usually an inexpensive repair, but a cracked disposal needs to be replaced. A leaking garbage disposal needs to be addressed quickly as leaking and pooling water can promote the growth of mold and bacteria, as well as damage the cabinets beneath your sink.

Clogs

A clogged garbage disposal can also cause the kitchen sink to back up, and if it still clogs after being cleaned, it most likely needs replacing.

Slow Drain

If the garbage disposal is very slow to drain, that means it’s not properly grinding food. The best solution is to install a new one.

Atlas Butler Services & Installs Garbage Disposals

If your garbage disposal is acting up and you want to weigh your options, call Atlas Butler at 614-681-2167. We’ll send one of our skilled plumbing technicians to your home to assess the situation and give you an honest verdict on whether your disposal can be repaired or needs to be replaced.