It’s hard to get excited about a Garbage Disposal, one way or the other. After all, when it does its job, that’s what you expect. When it doesn’t, you might think “Oh well, nothing lasts forever.” But that’s only on a good day.
Still, and like anything else mechanical, there are times a garbage disposal can be fixed, and times when it needs to be replaced. Do you know the difference? Here’s your guide to when replacement is the correct, if not your only option.
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It Won’t Even Turn On
If you flip the switch and nothing happens, don’t call Norhio Plumbing just yet. First, check your fuse box or circuit breaker panel to see if the unit is getting power. If you replace a fuse or flip the breaker switch and it still doesn’t turn on, try pushing the reset button on a nearby outlet. If it still won’t turn on, disconnect all power and look inside to see if anything is jamming the blades. If there are no obstructions, then your garbage disposal has probably burned out.
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You Have to Press the Reset Button Every Time You Use Your Disposal
This indicates a problem either with your home wiring on or under the unit. The best way to know for sure is to have Norhio Plumbing inspect it for you. If your garbage disposal caused the electrical problem, we’ll need to replace it. If not, you’re probably going to need the services of a licensed electrician.
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It Stinks to High Heaven
If nothing you do can stop your garbage disposal from stinking up your kitchen, it might have to be disassembled and professionally cleaned. Or, you can start fresh with a new one. Norhio Plumbing will be happy to help you decide which path makes more sense for you.
- It Takes Longer and Longer to Grind Down Food
Your garbage disposal should grind down food in just a few seconds. If it’s taking longer than that, the blades have probably dulled and need to be sharpened. This is one repair issue that doesn’t require you to replace your unit.
- It Makes a Loud, Metallic Noise When You Run It
When you start hearing the sound of metal on metal, your disposal is telling you it needs a tune-up. You would do well to heed the warning; otherwise, the motor will burn out and you will have to replace the entire unit.
- Water is Leaking from the Disposal
Garbage disposal leaks typically emanate from one of two sources: a loose or wornseal or from a crack in the tank. While we can repair or replace a seal, a cracked tank has to be replaced.
While there are certain plumbing repairs that many home owners can make themselves, attempting to repair your garbage disposal can be a risky business, and one we don’t recommend. Instead, contact Norhio Plumbing, your local plumbing professionals. Whether you repair or replace, you can count on a guaranteed upfront price, a job well done, and our 100% customer satisfaction guarantee.
