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Garbage Disposal Repair & Replacement

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At Aquatech Sewer & Plumbing, we understand the importance of a well-functioning garbage disposal in your kitchen. These essential appliances not only offer convenience but also contribute to maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in the heart of your home. By performing regular maintenance and being mindful of what you put down the drain, your garbage disposal can serve you for many years. When issues arise, you can trust our team to provide reliable repair and replacement services across Chicago and the surrounding areas. With years of experience, we deliver efficient, affordable, and high-quality solutions to keep your kitchen running smoothly.

Common Garbage Disposal Issues We Address

Garbage disposals are convenient appliances, but like any other device, they can encounter problems over time. Some common issues include:

  • Clogs: A build-up of food waste and debris can block your disposal.
  • Leaks: Water leaking from the disposal unit can damage your cabinetry and flooring.
  • Noisy Operation: Grinding or rattling noises often indicate internal damage or foreign objects stuck inside.
  • Power Issues: If your disposal won’t turn on or keeps tripping the breaker, there might be an electrical or motor problem.
  • Slow Drainage: This could mean your disposal isn’t grinding waste effectively.


Our team has the expertise to diagnose these problems quickly and recommend the best course of action, whether repair or replacement.

What Can You Put Down Your Kitchen Garbage Disposal?

Knowing what’s safe to put in your garbage disposal is essential to keeping it in good working condition. While disposals can handle many types of food waste, there are several items that should be avoided to prevent clogs, damage, and malfunctions.

Items to Avoid Putting in Your Garbage Disposal:

Bones:

Large or small bones can dull or jam the blades.

Strong Chemicals:

Harsh substances like industrial cleaners and clog removers can damage the internal components.

Coffee Grounds:

These can build up over time and lead to blockages.

Corn Husks:

Their fibrous nature can tangle the disposal blades.

Eggshells:

The membrane inside shells can cause clogs.

Fibrous Vegetables:

Items like celery, pumpkins, or artichokes can wrap around the blades.

Nuts:

These are hard to grind and can strain the motor.

Oatmeal:

Oatmeal: Sticky and expandable, oatmeal can clog the pipes.

Onion Skins:

The thin, papery layers can get stuck in the blades.

Paint:

Never dispose of liquid paint or dried paint chips; they can coat the blades and pipes.

Pasta and Rice:

These expand when exposed to water and can clog the disposal.

When in doubt, toss it in the trash to prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your garbage disposal.

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Indications That Your Garbage Disposal Needs Repair or Replacement

It’s important to recognize the signs that your garbage disposal may require professional attention. Here are some common indicators:

Signs You Need a Repair:

Strange Noises:

If you hear grinding, squealing, or rattling, there may be a mechanical issue.

Foul Odors:

Persistent bad smells could mean food is stuck in the unit.

Water Leaks:

Leaks underneath the sink or around the disposal are a red flag.

Jammed Blades:

If the blades aren’t turning, there might be a blockage or motor issue.

Frequent Resets:

Constantly having to reset your disposal is a sign of underlying problems.

When to Replace Your Garbage Disposal

  • Age of the Unit: Most garbage disposals last 8-15 years. If yours is nearing the end of its lifespan, replacement may be the better option.
  • Recurring Repairs: If you’ve had multiple repairs, it’s likely more cost-effective to replace the unit.
  • Poor Performance: A disposal that no longer grinds food effectively should be replaced.
  • Upgrading Kitchen Appliances: If you’re remodeling your kitchen or upgrading appliances, it’s a great time to install a new disposal.

Why You Shouldn’t Attempt
DIY Garbage Disposal Repairs

Fixing a garbage disposal on your own can be extremely dangerous if you’re not experienced. The risk of sustaining deep cuts from the sharp blades or experiencing an electric shock is significant. Here are some key precautions to keep in mind:

  • Never Stick Your Hand Inside: Under no circumstances should you place your hand or any object into the garbage disposal while it’s running. Even if the unit is off, sharp edges can cause injury.
  • Turn It Off Immediately: If your disposal is jammed, making grinding or clanging noises, or not functioning properly, switch it off right away. Refrain from running water or putting anything else down the drain until a professional assesses the issue.

 

Ignoring garbage disposal issues can lead to more significant and costly problems down the road. For instance, jams can escalate into motor damage, while leaks can cause water damage to your kitchen. Call our team immediately if you notice any problems. Our experienced emergency plumbers will arrive promptly to diagnose and resolve the issue. We’ll provide clear updates throughout the process, letting you know if a repair is possible or if replacement is necessary.

Our Repair and Replacement Process

At Aquatech Sewer & Plumbing, we make garbage disposal repair and replacement hassle-free:

  • Initial Inspection: Our technicians assess the problem and provide an upfront estimate.
  • Repair or Replacement Recommendation: Based on the inspection, we’ll recommend the best solution.
  • Expert Service: Whether it’s a quick fix or a complete replacement, we complete the job efficiently and with precision.
  • Clean-Up: We ensure your kitchen is as clean as we found it, if not cleaner.

Preventive Maintenance Tips

To maximize the lifespan of your garbage disposal and avoid frequent issues, follow these maintenance tips:

  • Run cold water before, during, and after using your disposal.
  • Avoid overloading the disposal with too much food waste at once.
  • Regularly clean the disposal with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar.
  • Use your disposal frequently to prevent rust and corrosion.

Call Aquatech Sewer & Plumbing Today for Garbage Disposal Services

When your garbage disposal needs attention, trust Aquatech Sewer & Plumbing to provide top-notch repair and replacement services. Serving Chicago and the surrounding areas, we’re dedicated to ensuring your kitchen appliances run smoothly.

Contact us today at 773-584-7978!

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