When to Call for Garbage Disposal Service
A garbage disposal that isn’t working properly can quickly disrupt the flow of a kitchen and lead to bigger plumbing issues if left unaddressed. Over time, wear and tear, as well as hidden damage, can affect the unit’s performance. Identifying issues early on helps prevent costly repairs and reduces the risk of major breakdowns. Knowing when to call for service ensures the system stays efficient and the kitchen remains clean and functional. Here are the common signs that may indicate the garbage disposal needs repair or replacement.
Strange Noises
Unusual sounds coming from the garbage disposal are often early signs of mechanical trouble. These noises may result from worn components, loose hardware, or foreign objects that have become lodged inside the unit. If the sound persists, professional attention is recommended to prevent further internal damage.Different types of noises often indicate specific issues. A constant humming usually means the motor is running while the blades are jammed, which can result from a stuck flywheel or a minor electrical fault. High-pitched screeching may indicate worn bearings or misaligned metal parts, while clattering or rattling sounds often suggest that items such as utensils or bones are trapped inside the chamber.
According to HomeAdvisor, approximately 23% of disposal repairs are due to mechanical obstructions that produce such warning noises. Minor jams may only require a simple fix, but louder, more aggressive sounds often signal the need for bearing replacement or even a full unit replacement. Addressing these noises promptly helps protect the motor and ensures safe, efficient operation.
Leaks
Water pooling under the kitchen sink is a common indication of issues with the garbage disposal. Most leaks occur when rubber seals and gaskets degrade over time, particularly at connection points between the unit and surrounding plumbing. Exposure to grease, food particles, and water pressure gradually wears down these seals over time.In many cases, leaks appear around the mounting assembly or where the disposal connects to the discharge pipe. A worn upper mounting gasket is often the first to fail. Cracks in the dishwasher connection hose can also lead to intermittent leaks that may go unnoticed until water damage begins.
Not every leak requires disposal or replacement. Simple gasket or hose repairs are often sufficient and cost-effective. However, if water seeps from the body of the disposal itself, it typically indicates internal failure, which usually warrants replacing the unit. The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors reports that roughly 23% of garbage disposal breakdowns are related to seal deterioration.
Identifying the source of the leak with a flashlight under the sink can help determine the severity. If leaks continue despite seal replacement, it may be a sign that the disposal has reached the end of its service life.
Bad Smells
Persistent bad odors from the garbage disposal are often more than just a cleaning issue. These odors typically originate from trapped food particles decomposing in areas of the grinding chamber that are difficult to access during routine cleaning.
While occasional odors may be resolved with ice, vinegar, or baking soda, smells that return quickly after cleaning often point to a mechanical issue. Damaged seals or worn grinding components may allow food waste to accumulate in hidden areas, where it cannot be properly flushed away.
If the smell returns within a few days of cleaning, it is often a sign that a repair or replacement is necessary. According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors, disposal units that continue to emit odors after professional cleaning often require mechanical servicing within a month.
When cleaning no longer provides lasting relief, a professional inspection is recommended. Continued use of a damaged unit can lead to further odor issues and even problems with the home’s overall kitchen plumbing.
About Green Hills Plumbing
Proudly serving Nashville homeowners, Green Hills Plumbing is a dedicated, locally-owned and operated plumbing company that provides upfront pricing, expert technicians, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call them for garbage disposal repair and installation in Nashville, TN.
