It’s important to have a garbage disposal in your home if you have a kitchen with a sink. Garbage disposal is a machine that grinds up food waste and can make disposing of it much easier. If you’re looking for advice on when to replace your garbage disposal, then you’ve come to the right place.
In this article, we’ll cover the different types of garbage disposals and give you an overview of when each type should be replaced. We’ll also discuss some common problems with garbage disposals and how to fix them. So if you’re wondering when to replace your garbage disposal, keep reading!
Why Do Garbage Disposals Fail?
Garbage disposal is a device that helps us dispose of food waste by grinding it down and flushing it down the drain. But sometimes, garbage disposals can fail. When this happens, food waste accumulates in the disposal unit, which can cause a variety of problems. Garbage disposals can become jammed, which can prevent the unit from working.
They can also leak, which can cause flooding and damage to your home. In some cases, garbage disposals can even start to eat through your sink or floor. If you notice any of these signs of failing garbage disposal, it’s important to call a professional.
Disposals fail for a variety of reasons, but the most common is that garbage disposal clogs up with food. This can happen when the disposal is not used often enough or when there is too much food in the disposal. Other causes of a garbage disposal failing include corrosion, a broken seal, and a defective motor.
If you notice that your disposal is not working, the first thing you should do is unplug it and try to clear the obstruction. If that doesn’t work, you may need to call a professional.
Common Signs that Your Garbage Disposal Needs Replacement
Most garbage disposal problems can be fixed through simple repairs. However, some advanced issues are beyond repairs. So how can you tell you need to replace the garbage disposal unit?
Strange Noises
The first indicator is when your garbage disposal starts making unusual noises. If you begin to hear humming, grinding, or vibrating coming from the unit, it is a sign that there is something wrong. This usually indicates that the blades are not spinning properly. The problem can be caused by a foreign object caught in the blades or simply because the blades are dull and need to be replaced.
If you hear a loud banging noise, it is likely that the flywheel has come loose. This is a more serious problem that will require a professional to fix.
Bad Smells
Another sign that your garbage disposal needs to be replaced is when it starts to produce bad smells. If you notice an unpleasant smell coming from your sink, it is likely that the garbage disposal is the culprit. This usually happens when food waste has accumulated in the unit and begun to rot.
The best way to deal with this problem is to clean out the disposal unit regularly. However, if the bad smell persists, it is an indication that the unit needs to be replaced.
Leaking
Leaking is another common problem with garbage disposals. If you notice water leaking from the unit, it is likely that the seals have failed. This can be a serious problem as it can lead to water damage in your home.
If you notice that your garbage disposal is leaking, you should call a professional immediately. They will be able to fix the problem and prevent any further damage.
When to Replace Your Garbage Disposal
There are a few different factors to consider when deciding whether or not to replace your garbage disposal. The first is the age of the unit. If your garbage disposal is more than 10 years old, it is probably time to replace it. This is because older units are more likely to break down and need repairs.
Another factor to consider is how often you use the garbage disposal. If you find that you are using it less and less, it may be time to replace it. This is because a new unit will be more efficient and easier to use.
Finally, you should also consider the cost of repairs. If the cost of repairs is more than half the cost of a new unit, it is probably time to replace the garbage disposal.
At Round Rock Plumbing, we will inspect your unit and determine if garbage disposal replacement is necessary.
