Blown Capacitors
Blown Capacitors | Garbage Disposal Repair | Plumbing | Jasper
A humming disposal that suddenly quits mid-grind often points to a blown capacitor, and that’s where HEP’s licensed plumbers come in. Whether your kitchen sink is backing up, tripping breakers, or simply refusing to turn on, our local team in Jasper is equipped to diagnose the issue fast and replace faulty parts on the spot. We carry factory-approved capacitors, seals, and splash guards right on the truck, so most calls are fixed in a single visit—no messy downtime, no lingering odors.
From routine maintenance to full-scale garbage disposal repair, HEP delivers service with a neighborly touch and a workmanship guarantee you can trust. Call today, and get your sink running smoothly before the dishes pile up.
FAQs
What are the most common signs that my garbage disposal has a blown capacitor?
Typical indicators include a humming noise when the switch is flipped, the blades not turning even after hitting the reset button, repeated tripping of the circuit breaker, or the need to spin the flywheel manually to get the unit started. Because the start-up capacitor supplies the initial torque to the motor, a failure prevents the disposal from engaging.
Can I safely test or replace a garbage disposal capacitor myself?
While a handy homeowner can check for obvious loose wires or a tripped breaker, capacitor testing involves discharging stored electricity and using a multimeter rated for microfarad measurements. Because improper handling can result in shock or further motor damage, we recommend letting a licensed plumber–electrician hybrid technician perform the diagnostic and replacement.
How long does a professional capacitor replacement or garbage disposal repair take in Jasper?
For most standard under-sink disposals, our technicians can isolate the problem, install a new start capacitor, and reassemble the unit in 45–60 minutes. If additional plumbing adjustments or a full disposal swap is required, the visit may extend to 90 minutes. We stock common capacitor ratings on our service trucks to avoid delays.
What is the average cost to repair a garbage disposal with a blown capacitor?
In Jasper, capacitor replacement generally falls between $120 and $180, covering the part, labor, and a system safety check. If the motor windings are also burned out or if the disposal is over 10 years old, a full unit replacement ($250–$450 installed) may be more cost-effective. We provide upfront, itemized estimates before work begins.
Will a blown capacitor damage other parts of my plumbing or electrical system?
A failed capacitor itself will not harm your drain lines, but repeated motor stalls can overheat the windings, trip breakers, and create electrical arcing. If the disposal seizes, food waste may back up, leading to clogs or foul odors in the sink trap. Prompt repair prevents cascading plumbing blockages and electrical hazards.
How can I prevent future capacitor or disposal failures?
1) Run cold water during and 15 seconds after use to solidify fats so they grind and flush away. 2) Avoid fibrous foods (celery, corn husks) and hard items (bones, fruit pits) that overload the motor. 3) Once a month, grind ice cubes with a squeeze of citrus to clean the chamber. 4) Have a professional inspect the disposal’s wiring, mounting, and capacitor every two years—especially in Jasper’s humid climate, which can accelerate electrical component wear.