If your garbage disposal is having issues that require attention, you might be wondering whether repairing or replacing it is the ideal choice. There are a few factors to consider here that will help you make the right call.
At City Creek Plumbing, we’re here to help with a huge range of plumbing repair services for clients around Layton, Kaysville, and nearby areas, including garbage disposal solutions. Here are some of the key factors that tend to come up during garbage disposal repair vs replace discussions, plus how to evaluate them and make the right choice for your budget and needs.
Expected Garbage Disposal Lifespan
As we enter this discussion, it’s helpful to have a general idea of how long you can expect your garbage disposal to last in the first place. On average, a garbage disposal will last between 8 and 12 years – but this range can vary greatly depending on factors like brand, model, maintenance habits, and usage patterns.
In general, higher-quality disposals from trusted brands have longer lifespans than lower-end models. In addition, proper maintenance and care can significantly extend the life of your garbage disposal. This includes regular cleaning and avoiding putting certain items down the drain (like bones, fibrous foods, or non-food items).
Signs of Wear-and-Tear
In many cases, your garbage disposal will begin giving off some warning signs before it completely fails. These signs may include strange noises, slow draining, foul odors or even leaks. It’s important to pay attention to these warning signs and address them promptly in order to prevent a total breakdown.
Repair-Worthy Issues
There are a number of garbage disposal issues that can typically be repaired with relatively simple approaches, and for a relatively low cost. These include:
- Jammed blades: If your garbage disposal is making a humming sound but not actually grinding up any food waste, it’s likely that the blades are jammed. A professional plumber can solve this issue by manually turning the blades or using a specialized tool to dislodge any objects stuck in the disposal.
- Clogs: Sometimes, food waste and other debris can build up in your garbage disposal, causing it to clog. This can be solved by using a plunger or an auger to clear out any blockages.
- Reset switch problems: In other cases, the garbage disposal may stop working altogether due to a faulty reset switch. This can usually be fixed by pressing the reset button located on the bottom or side of the disposal.
- Minor leaks: If you notice water leaking from your garbage disposal, it could be due to a loose connection or a damaged seal. In this case, it’s important to call a professional plumber for repairs to prevent further damage. These leaks may sometimes be minor and easily repairable (others may be more severe; more on this in a bit).
When Garbage Disposal Replacement is Preferred
On the flip side, there are certain kinds of garbage disposal issues that signal a need for replacement. Some examples:
- Regular reset switch issues: If your reset switch has a singular issue, this can easily be repaired. However, if the same problem keeps cropping up, it could signal a more serious issue that requires replacement.
- Constant or major leaks: Minor leaks can be fixed with a simple repair. However, if you notice constant or major leaks that cannot be easily resolved, it may be time to replace your garbage disposal.
- Age: Like any appliance, garbage disposals have a lifespan. If yours is nearing the end of its expected lifespan (around 8-12 years), replacement may be a better long-term solution than constantly repairing issues.
Choosing an Energy-Efficient Replacement
If garbage disposal replacement is indeed recommended to you by your plumber, the next step is to choose a new model. One important factor to consider is energy efficiency. Look for models with the ENERGY STAR label, as these are certified by the EPA to use less water and electricity than standard models.
You should also consider the size and horsepower of the new garbage disposal. A larger household with more food waste may require a higher horsepower model, while a smaller household can opt for a lower horsepower one to save energy and money.
And finally, you should ensure proper installation of the new garbage disposal. If you are not confident in your own abilities, it is best to hire a professional plumber for installation. This will ensure that the disposal is properly connected and avoid any potential leaks or malfunctions.
At City Creek Plumbing, we’re here to help with all your plumbing repair service needs around Kaysville and Layton, including any garbage disposal issues you’re having. Contact us today to schedule service!