Garbage Disposal Repair in New Haven

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does a Typical Garbage Disposal Repair Take?

The duration of a typical garbage disposal repair can vary depending on the specific issue. Simple fixes, such as clearing a jam using the hex wrench or reset button, or addressing a tripped circuit breaker, can often be resolved very quickly, sometimes in under 30 minutes. If the problem involves tightening a loose connection or replacing a simple gasket, a professional plumber might take about 30 minutes to an hour. However, more complex repairs like diagnosing an electrical fault, replacing a motor, or dealing with a severe clog further down the drain line could take several hours. For instance, if the unit has cracks or significant internal damage, a replacement might be faster than a repair.

What Items Should I Avoid Putting in My Garbage Disposal to Prevent Clogs?

To prevent clogs and extend the life of your garbage disposal, it's crucial to be mindful of what you put down it. Avoid fibrous foods like celery stalks, corn husks, asparagus, and potato peels, as their strings can tangle around the grinding components. Grease, fats, and oils should never go down the drain, as they solidify and stick to pipes, leading to stubborn blockages. Also, steer clear of starchy foods like pasta, rice, and bread, which expand and become gluey when wet. Bones, fruit pits, and hard shells (like seafood or eggshells) can damage or dull the grinding impellers. Even seemingly innocuous items like coffee grounds can clump together and create sludge in pipes. Stick to soft, biodegradable food scraps in small quantities.

Is It Better to Repair an Old Garbage Disposal or Replace It with a New One?

Deciding whether to repair an old garbage disposal or replace it depends on several factors, including the unit's age, the frequency of issues, and the cost of the repair. If your disposal is relatively new (under 8-10 years old) and experiencing an infrequent, minor problem like a jam that's easily cleared, a repair is usually the more cost-effective option. However, if your unit is old, constantly jamming, leaking from the main housing, or if the cost of the repair is significant (e.g., approaching half the price of a new unit), replacement is often the better investment. Newer models are typically more energy-efficient, quieter, and come with fresh warranties, offering greater reliability and peace of mind.

Can a Jammed Garbage Disposal Be Fixed by Myself?

Yes, a common jammed garbage disposal can often be fixed by yourself using a few simple steps, but always prioritize safety. First, never put your hand inside the disposal. Ensure the power to the unit is off, either by flipping the wall switch or, ideally, by turning off the circuit breaker that controls the disposal. Look underneath the disposal for a small, hexagonal hole in the center; insert the hex wrench (usually provided with the disposal) into this hole and crank it back and forth to manually free the impellers. If your unit doesn't have this hole, you can try looking down the drain with a flashlight (power still off!) for any visible obstruction and attempting to remove it with pliers or tongs. After freeing the jam, push the red reset button, usually located on the bottom of the unit, before restoring power and testing. If these steps don't work, it's time to call a professional.

What Can I Do to Maintain My Garbage Disposal?

Regular maintenance can extend the life of your garbage disposal. Avoid grinding fibrous materials, always run the disposal with cold water, and occasionally grind ice to clean the blades. Additionally, routine checks by A-Team Plumbing and Drain can prevent unexpected breakdowns. We provide comprehensive maintenance plans to ensure that your garbage disposal is in top shape year-round.

Engaging in maintenance tasks like running the disposal regularly and avoiding the disposal of hard or abrasive materials can make a significant difference. Routine inspections by our team can help identify early signs of wear and tear, allowing for prompt intervention before minor issues escalate into major problems. With the right approach, your garbage disposal can function efficiently for many years, saving you the trouble and expense of frequent repairs.