Licensed Plumbers
Licensed Plumbers | Garbage Disposal Repair | Plumbing | Charleston
When your sink suddenly grinds to a halt, the last thing you want is guesswork. HEP’s team of licensed, bonded, and insured plumbers arrives at Charleston homes equipped with specialized tools, factory-approved parts, and years of hands-on experience. From stubborn jams and foul odors to mysterious leaks beneath the cabinet, our experts diagnose the problem fast and perform precise garbage disposal repair that restores your kitchen’s rhythm—often in the very same visit.
We know a broken disposal can disrupt family dinners, dirty dishes, and even your water bill. That’s why we back every garbage disposal repair with clear, upfront pricing, courteous cleanup, and a satisfaction guarantee. Call today, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with HEP’s hometown service and industry-leading workmanship.
FAQs
How can I tell if my garbage disposal needs professional repair?
Common warning signs include loud grinding or metal-on-metal noises, persistent odors that won’t wash away, water leaking from the unit or the sink flange, frequent circuit breaker trips, or a disposal that hums but won’t spin. If you’ve pressed the reset button, checked for jams with the power off, and the problem persists, it’s time to call a licensed Charleston plumber to diagnose the motor, bearings, and electrical connections safely.
What brands and models of garbage disposals do you service in Charleston?
Our licensed plumbers service and repair all major residential and light-commercial garbage disposal brands sold in South Carolina, including InSinkErator, Waste King, Moen, KitchenAid, GE, Whirlpool, and Badger series units. Whether you have a 1/3-HP basic model or a 1-HP continuous-feed, batch-feed, or septic-safe unit, we carry the OEM parts and specialty tools required for a correct repair.
Are your plumbers licensed and insured to work on garbage disposals in South Carolina?
Yes. Every technician who visits your Charleston home holds a current South Carolina Mechanical Contractor – Plumbing license, undergoes annual code update training, and carries full liability and workers’ compensation insurance. This ensures your repair meets state and local plumbing codes, protects your property, and preserves any existing manufacturer warranties on the disposal.
How much does garbage disposal repair typically cost in Charleston?
Most minor repairs—such as unjamming the flywheel, replacing a splash guard, or resealing a sink flange—fall in the $125-$175 range, including the service call. Mid-level repairs like switching out a worn-out grinding plate, cracked housing, or failed electrical switch average $175-$275. If the motor is burned out or the unit is over 10 years old, replacement often becomes more cost-effective. We provide upfront, flat-rate quotes before any work begins so there are no surprises.
Should I repair or replace my broken garbage disposal?
A repair makes sense when the unit is under 8-10 years old, the motor is still strong, and the issue is limited to a jam, gasket, electrical switch, or minor leak. Replacement is recommended when the motor has seized, the housing is cracked, rust is visible, or repair costs exceed 50% of a new unit. Our plumbers evaluate your disposal on-site, explain the pros and cons, and can install a high-efficiency replacement the same day if needed.
What can I do to avoid future garbage disposal clogs and breakdowns?
1) Run cold water before, during, and 20 seconds after grinding. 2) Feed food waste slowly—no large batches. 3) Avoid fibrous items (celery, corn husks), grease, bones, coffee grounds, eggshell membranes, and non-food debris. 4) Freshen the unit monthly with ice cubes and a small citrus rind to clean the grinding chamber. 5) Have a licensed plumber inspect the disposal and drain pipes annually to catch early wear, leaks, or electrical issues. These steps can add years to your disposal’s life and reduce costly repairs.