You don’t realize how much you depend on your garbage disposal—until it stops working. One day it’s grinding away like normal, and the next, it’s making strange noises, refusing to turn on, or backing water into the sink. Suddenly, even simple kitchen tasks feel like a hassle.
Not sure if you need a repair or a replacement? Here are a few signs a new unit might be the better choice:
Frequent resets – If you’re always hitting that red reset button, the motor may be wearing out.
Strange or loud noises – Grinding metal or rattling sounds can mean internal damage.
Leaks from the unit itself – Cracks in the disposal housing usually can’t be repaired.
Persistent clogs – If it jams easily, even after cleaning, the blades may be dull or misaligned.
Age – Most disposals last around 8–12 years. If yours is older and acting up, replacement can save you future headaches.
Replacing a garbage disposal is more than just swapping one for another. Here’s what the process typically looks like:
Remove the old unit – Safely disconnecting it from power and plumbing.
Install the new disposal – Making sure it fits the existing sink opening and connections.
Test everything – Checking for leaks, proper grinding, and smooth draining.
We replace disposals for most major brands and models, including compact units for small kitchens and high-horsepower options for busy households.
Limitations: We don’t install new sink drains or make major plumbing changes—just the fixture connection itself. If extra plumbing work is needed, we can help coordinate that before installation.
Once you have a new disposal, a few simple habits can keep it in good shape:
Run cold water while grinding to keep food particles moving.
Avoid hard items like bones, fruit pits, or shells that can damage blades.
Skip grease and oil – They can build up and cause clogs.
Clean it regularly – Grind ice cubes or citrus peels once in a while to freshen and sharpen.
Disposal replacement often goes hand in hand with Faucet Replacement, especially if you’re updating your sink area, or Appliance Installation during a kitchen remodel. And if you’re adding better lighting while you’re at it, check out our Light Fixtures installation service.