Garbage Disposal Replacement: When is it Time?

How do you know when it’s time for garbage disposal replacement? 

Garbage disposals have been a staple in most American kitchens for decades. They make food clean-up so much easier, grinding up vegetable scraps and lemon peels with ease. But like any other household appliance, they have a lifespan. When your disposal starts to give you trouble, you may start to wonder if it’s time to retire and replace it. 

In this article, we’ll go over the signs that indicate it’s time for garbage disposal replacement, and what you can expect from the process.

Signs Your Garbage Disposal is Failing

Strange Noises

One of the most common signs that your disposal is on its last legs is strange noises. A healthy disposal should make a grinding sound when it’s working, but if you start to hear odd noises like rattling, humming, or buzzing, it may be time to replace your unit.

Leaks

Another sign that your disposal may be ready for replacement is leaks. If you notice water collecting around the base of the disposal, it’s possible that the unit is starting to break down, and water is seeping through the cracks.

Slow Drainage

If your sink is draining more slowly than usual, it could be a sign that your disposal is failing. When the blades in the disposal become dull, they can’t effectively grind up food, causing a blockage in the drain.

Jamming

Finally, if you find that your disposal is frequently jamming, it could be a sign that it’s time to replace it. Jams can be caused by dull blades, clogs, or a broken motor, all of which are signs that your disposal is in need of replacement.

The Replacement Process

Choosing a New Disposal

The first step in the garbage disposal replacement process is choosing a new disposal. There are several factors to consider when choosing a new disposal, including the size of your sink, the type of waste you typically grind up, and your budget. It’s important to choose a disposal that is the right size for your sink, so that it can handle the amount of waste you generate.

Removing the Old Disposal

Once you’ve chosen a new disposal, the next step is to remove the old unit. This typically involves disconnecting the plumbing and electrical connections and removing the mounting assembly. This is a job best left to a professional plumber, as there are many potential pitfalls that can arise during the removal process.

Installing the New Disposal

With the old disposal removed, it’s time to install the new one. This typically involves connecting the plumbing and electrical connections, mounting the disposal, and securing it in place. Garbage disposal replacement is another job that is best left to a professional plumber, as it requires specialized knowledge and experience to ensure the installation is done correctly.

Testing the New Disposal

Once the new disposal is installed, it’s important to test it to make sure it’s working properly. This typically involves running water and turning on the disposal to see if it grinds up waste effectively and doesn’t leak. If everything looks good, you’re ready to start using your new disposal!

Preventative Maintenance

Preventative maintenance is a crucial step in extending the lifespan of your garbage disposal. Some simple steps you can take to maintain your disposal include regularly running cold water and grinding up citrus peels to help clean the blades and keep them sharp. You should also avoid grinding up hard items like bones, coffee grounds, and grease, as these can clog the disposal or dull the blades. It’s also a good idea to have a professional inspect and clean your disposal at least once a year to ensure it is functioning at its best. Garbage disposal maintenance is easy when you make it a regular practice!

A failing garbage disposal can be a hassle, but with the right replacement process, you can have a new unit up and running in no time. When you’re faced with the decision to replace your disposal, it’s important to choose the right unit, remove the old one properly, install the new one correctly, and test it to make sure it’s working properly.

Don’t let a failing disposal disrupt your daily routine! Call the experts at Shepherd’s Plumbing, Heating, and AC today to schedule a replacement or repair. Our team of professional plumbers has the knowledge and experience to get your disposal up and running in no time.