- HEP Plumbing
- Garbage Disposal

Garbage Disposal
Garbage Disposal | Garbage Disposal Repair | Plumbing | Ooltewah
When a jammed impeller, stubborn clog, or mysterious leak brings your kitchen routine to a halt, Ooltewah homeowners know they can count on HEP to swoop in with fast, friendly expertise. Our licensed plumbers arrive fully stocked, diagnose the issue on the spot, and walk you through every option—from quick fixes to full unit replacements—so you’re never left guessing what’s next. We treat your home with the same care we give our own, laying down protective mats, cleaning up thoroughly, and double-checking every connection before we go.
Backed by decades of local experience and our “HEP Is On The Way” promise, we make garbage disposal repair simple, affordable, and stress-free. Call or book online today, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with crystal-clear drains, a whisper-quiet motor, and a kitchen that’s ready for whatever’s on the menu tonight.
FAQs
What are the most common signs that my garbage disposal needs professional repair?
Warning signs include persistent clogs, humming without grinding, water leaking from the unit or sink flange, foul odors that cleaning won’t remove, repeated tripped breakers or resets, and unusual noises such as metal-on-metal grinding. If you notice any of these issues in your Ooltewah home, turn the disposal off and call our licensed plumbers to prevent further damage.
Can you unclog or fix a jammed garbage disposal without replacing it?
Yes. Most jams or clogs are caused by food debris, fibrous vegetables, or foreign objects wedged between the impellers and the grind plate. Our technicians first cut power, manually free the obstruction with a disposal wrench, check the flywheel for damage, and flush the system. We also inspect the electrical reset and wiring. In many cases, a professional repair restores full operation without the cost of a replacement unit.
How quickly can you provide garbage disposal repair service in Ooltewah?
Because we are based right here in Hamilton County, we offer same-day service for most disposal emergencies. Call before noon and we can usually have a licensed plumber at your door within a 2-hour arrival window. For after-hours or weekend problems, our 24/7 emergency dispatch ensures you are never left with a non-working or leaking disposal overnight.
Do you service all makes and models of garbage disposals?
Absolutely. Our technicians stock parts for popular brands such as InSinkErator, Moen, Waste King, KitchenAid, and GE, and we have extensive experience with both ⅓-HP and 1-HP commercial-grade units. Whether your disposal is batch-feed, continuous-feed, or an older discontinued model, we can troubleshoot, repair, or, if needed, recommend a compatible replacement that meets Ooltewah plumbing codes.
What can I do to prevent future clogs or breakdowns after the repair?
1) Run cold water before, during, and 10–15 seconds after grinding. 2) Feed food waste slowly; avoid fibrous items like celery, corn husks, and onion skins. 3) Never pour grease, fats, or coffee grounds into the disposal. 4) Once a month, grind a tray of ice cubes with a small amount of rock salt or citrus peels to clean the chamber and sharpen impellers. 5) Schedule an annual plumbing inspection so we can tighten mounting hardware, check for leaks, and test electrical connections.
Is it more cost-effective to repair or replace my old garbage disposal, and what does it usually cost?
If your unit is under 8 years old and the motor is still strong, repairing a jam, leak, or worn gasket typically costs $120–$250, including parts and labor. However, if the motor is burnt out, the grinding chamber is cracked, or the unit is 10+ years old, replacement often makes better economic sense. New, fully installed disposals start around $350 for a standard ½-HP model and rise to $650 for premium, ultra-quiet 1-HP units. We provide upfront, flat-rate pricing so you can make an informed decision for your Ooltewah household.