Garbage Disposal Repair
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Garbage Disposal Repair
Garbage Disposal Repair & Installation
Garbage disposal humming but not grinding? Completely dead? Leaking? Foul odors?
RooterMan provides expert garbage disposal repair, unclogging, replacement, and professional new installation for kitchens throughout the area.
Installed under your sink, a garbage disposal grinds food scraps into tiny particles so they flow safely through your plumbing. When it fails, due to clogs, jams, motor issues, or age, it can lead to backups, bad smells, sink drainage problems, or even dishwasher backups.
With over 50 years of trusted plumbing experience, our technicians diagnose and fix issues quickly, often the same day, and handle emergencies 24/7.
So What Causes Garbage Disposal Clogs?
- Clogs & Jams – Grease, fats, oils solidify and coat pipes; fibrous foods (celery, corn husks, artichokes), potato peels, rice, pasta, or bones get stuck in the grinding chamber
- Overloading – Too much food at once overwhelms the motor, causing it to overheat and shut off
- Mechanical Wear – Old units (10–15 years typical lifespan) suffer worn impellers, broken flywheels, failed motors, or seals
- Improper Use – Putting non-food items (shells, utensils, plastic) or pouring grease down the drain accelerates failure
Signs You Need Garabage Disposal Services:
- Unit won’t turn on (no sound or hum)
- Hums but blades don’t spin (jammed)
- Loud grinding, rattling, or banging noises
- Water leaks from bottom or connections
- Persistent bad odors even after cleaning
- Slow sink drainage or backups (may affect dishwasher too)
- Frequent tripping of reset button
Our Garbage Disposal Services:
- Quick Fixes – Unjam blades (using Allen wrench or professional tools), clear clogs with snaking or hydro jetting
- Reset & Troubleshooting – Check/reset thermal overload button, inspect power supply, test wiring
- Repairs – Replace seals, gaskets, splash guards, or grinding components when possible
- Replacements & Installations – Upgrade to quieter, more powerful models (1/2 HP to 1 HP+), ensure proper mounting, plumbing connections, and dishwasher hookup
- Preventive Maintenance – Clean unit, remove buildup, check for wear, all will help extend life
Tips to Keep Your Garbage Disposal Running Smoothly
- Run cold water before, during, and after use
- Avoid grease, oil, fibrous/stringy foods, eggshells, coffee grounds in excess
- Use disposal regularly to prevent rust and seals drying out
- Clean monthly: Ice cubes + citrus peels for deodorizing and scouring
- Never use harsh chemical drain cleaners, they damage the unit
Frequently Asked Questions
Turn off power at the breaker or unplug. Use the Allen wrench (usually supplied) in the hex hole on the bottom to manually rotate the blades. Remove visible obstructions with tongs, never put your hand inside! If it won’t free up, call a pro.
Food particles trapped under the splash guard or in the grinding chamber rot and create odors. Clean regularly with ice, baking soda, vinegar, or citrus. Persistent smells may indicate a deeper clog, professional cleaning helps.
Minor leaks from loose connections might be fixable with tightening, but leaks from the seal, body, or motor usually require replacement parts or a new unit to avoid water damage.
Quality units last 10–15 years with proper use and maintenance. Cheaper models may fail sooner. Regular cleaning and avoiding tough foods extend lifespan.
Yes, if the disposal is clogged or jammed, it can back up water into the dishwasher drain line, causing slow draining or standing water in the dishwasher.