Are you considering overhauling your kitchen and replacing your garbage disposal? Or maybe your current one is aging and you’re wondering how long it should last?
As an experienced plumber, let me tell you that while any appliance has the potential to fail prematurely, most garbage disposals have an estimated lifespan of 8-10 years. This means regular maintenance and proper use are essential for keeping your machine running optimally! In this blog post, I’ll share best practices on how to make sure yours will work great throughout its lifetime.
What to Do When Your Garbage Disposal Starts Making Noises
Is your garbage disposal making strange and unsettling noises?
It’s time to act fast!
Don’t let those unnerving sounds become a permanent fixture in your home. First, turn off the power supply to your disposal. Make sure your hands are completely clear of the machine before proceeding to diagnose the problem. Start by checking for any visible blockages or foreign objects, and remove them if possible.
If the issue persists, it may be best to call in a plumbing expert (like Western Rooter & Plumbing!) to take a look.
How Long Do Garbage Disposals Typically Last Before Breaking Down
We are often asked how long garbage disposals typically last, and while there’s no definitive answer, several factors can impact their lifespan.
The first is the frequency of use. If you’re grinding up food scraps several times a day, your disposal is going to experience more wear and tear than if you only use it occasionally.
Another factor is the quality of the disposal itself. Cheaper disposals may only last a few years, while more expensive models could last a decade or more with proper maintenance.
Finally, improper use can also contribute to premature breakdowns. For example, disposing of non-food items or pouring grease down the drain can damage the disposal’s blades or cause clogs. But with a little care and attention, your garbage disposal should give you several years of trouble-free service.
Steps to Take in Order to Increase the Lifespan of Your Garbage Disposal
The first step you should take is to always use cold water when running your disposal. Hot water can cause fats and grease to solidify and clog up your pipes over time.
Additionally, be sure to avoid putting hard or non-food items down the disposal, such as bones or plastic. These can damage the blades and cause more costly repairs down the line.
Finally, run your disposal regularly to prevent rust and corrosion from building up.
Troubleshooting Common Garbage Disposal Issues and What to Look Out For
Garbage disposals are a convenient addition to any kitchen, but like any other appliance, they can run into problems. Fortunately, most issues can be easily fixed with a bit of troubleshooting.
If your disposal is making strange noises, it could be a sign that there’s something stuck in it. To fix this, turn off the power and try using tongs or pliers to remove the blockage.
If the disposal won’t turn on at all, check to make sure it’s plugged in and that the circuit breaker hasn’t been tripped.
And if you notice leaks or a foul smell coming from your garbage disposal, it could be due to loose or worn out parts. Whatever the issue may be, don’t hesitate to give us a call.
Signs You Need a New Garbage Disposal vs Repairing Your Old One
In the kitchen, the garbage disposal is a true workhorse. It handles everything from food scraps to grease, constantly grinding away to keep your sink and pipes clear.
But when it starts to act up, you might find yourself wondering whether it’s time for a repair or a replacement.
As plumbing experts who have seen it all, we’re here to offer some advice.
First off, consider the age and condition of your current unit. If it’s more than a decade old or has suffered significant damage, it’s probably time to say goodbye. But if it’s a relatively new appliance with just a clog or a leak, professional repairs might be the way to go.
Tips on Choosing the Best Garbage Disposal for Your Home
There are so many factors to consider, such as horsepower, noise level, and size.
It’s important to consider your household’s needs, such as the amount of food waste you produce and the frequency of use.
You’ll also want to think about the type of material the unit is made of and its durability. And of course, budget is a consideration as well.
Luckily, there are many great options on the market, and with my helpful tips, you’ll be able to choose the best garbage disposal for your home with ease.
In summary, dealing with a noisy garbage disposal can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. While it can be frustrating to figure out exactly what is wrong and if you need to replace your garbage disposal or not, this guide has provided you with the best tips to troubleshoot the problem correctly.
Remember to use the steps outlined in order to increase the longevity of your current model or research into buying a new one that is better suited for your needs.
With these tips in mind, you will be able to make an informed decision on whether you should repair or replace your garbage disposal.
