Updated May 2022

Now that it’s the start of a new year, it’s time to plan the improvements you want to make to your home. Here’s an easy one that you may not have thought of: contact professional plumbers to install a new garbage disposal.

“But how do I know I need a new disposal?” That’s a good question. Aside from the garbage disposal breaking down on you entirely, there are warning signs that will tell you the time has come to replace your aging garbage disposal with a new unit.

You need to frequently hit the “reset” button

The reset button located on the bottom of a garbage disposal unit pops out when there is too much strain placed on the motor. Basically, it’s a circuit breaker. You only have to press it down to get the motor working again. However, this shouldn’t be something that occurs a few times a week. If it’s happening that often, the motor is starting to fail and it’s time for a new disposal.

Clogs are becoming common

Is the drainpipe connected to the disposal clogging up regularly? It could be trouble down in the pipe (in which case we recommend arranging for drain cleaning). But it might also be that the disposal is no longer grinding down the food effectively. This isn’t due to “dull blades,” since the disposal doesn’t even use blades. The best solution is a new garbage disposal.

Food grinding is too slow

If you are running the disposal for longer to clear out the hopper (the main chamber), then it indicates the unit is close to the end of its service life due to wear and tear.

Major, expensive leaks

Leaks around the sink flange of the disposal or in other places can be repaired—but often these repairs cost more than installing a new disposal altogether. If your sink disposal is more than 10 years old and leaking starts, it’s more cost effective to replace it than to repair it. Ask your plumber about the best options.

Bud Matthews Services offers plumbing and appliance services in Durham, NC. We’re here for all your home service needs!