Garbage Disposal Maintenance & Repair: What You Can Do and When to Call a Pro
A garbage disposal is a convenient kitchen appliance that helps manage food waste efficiently. However, without proper maintenance, it can develop clogs, unpleasant odors, or even stop working altogether. In this post, we’ll cover essential DIY maintenance tips, professional servicing needs, and common signs that your garbage disposal needs repair.
Maintenance Homeowners Can Do
Regular maintenance can keep your garbage disposal running smoothly and help prevent major problems. Here are some simple tasks you can do:
Daily & Weekly Maintenance:
- Run Cold Water While Using the Disposal – Always run a steady stream of cold water before, during, and after using the disposal to help flush food particles down the drain.
- Avoid Fibrous & Hard Foods – Do not put potato peels, celery, coffee grounds, eggshells, bones, or fruit pits into the disposal, as they can cause clogs or damage the blades.
- Grind Small Pieces Gradually – Feed food waste slowly instead of dumping large amounts in at once to prevent jams.
- Flush with Dish Soap & Water – Run warm water with dish soap through the disposal after heavy use to keep it clean and grease-free.
Monthly Deep Cleaning:
- Use Ice Cubes & Rock Salt – Grinding ice cubes with rock salt helps clean the grinding chamber and sharpens the blades.
- Deodorize with Baking Soda & Vinegar – Pour half a cup of baking soda into the disposal, followed by a cup of vinegar. Let it fizz for a few minutes, then rinse with hot water.
- Citrus Freshening – Grinding lemon or orange peels can help eliminate bad odors and leave your disposal smelling fresh.
Maintenance a Professional Should Handle
While homeowners can do a lot to maintain their garbage disposal, some issues require the expertise of a professional:
- Clearing Deep Clogs – If your disposal is clogged beyond the grinding chamber, a professional can safely remove blockages from the drainpipes.
- Repairing Electrical Issues – If your disposal won’t turn on or frequently trips the circuit breaker, an appliance technician can inspect and repair the wiring.
- Fixing Persistent Leaks – A leaking garbage disposal could indicate a faulty seal, cracked housing, or an issue with the sink flange, all of which require professional repair.
- Replacing a Worn-Out Motor – If the motor is making loud humming noises but the blades aren’t spinning, it may need to be replaced.
- Installing a New Unit – If your disposal is beyond repair, a professional can ensure proper installation of a new unit to prevent leaks and plumbing issues.
Signs That Your Garbage Disposal Needs Repair
If your garbage disposal isn’t working properly, don’t ignore these warning signs:
- Slow Draining – If water takes longer than usual to drain, it may indicate a clog in the disposal or drainpipe.
- Frequent Resets Needed – If you constantly have to press the reset button, there could be an electrical or overheating issue.
- Unusual Noises – Grinding, rattling, or metal-on-metal sounds could mean loose components or broken internal parts.
- Leaking Under the Sink – Water pooling under your sink could be due to a worn-out seal, loose plumbing connections, or a cracked disposal unit.
- Foul Odors That Won’t Go Away – If deep cleaning doesn’t eliminate bad smells, food particles may be trapped in places you can’t reach.
- Total Failure to Turn On – If your disposal doesn’t start at all, it could be an electrical issue or a burned-out motor.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your garbage disposal well-maintained can extend its lifespan and prevent costly repairs. Regular cleaning and mindful use go a long way, but if you encounter major issues, it’s best to call a professional.
If you need expert garbage disposal repair or installation, contact Xigent Appliance Repair today for fast and reliable service!