Garbage Disposals
Garbage Disposals | Plumbing Fixture Replacements | Plumbing | Rockford
Whether your Rockford kitchen has fallen silent because the garbage disposal groans instead of grinds, or your bathroom faucet simply won’t stop dripping, HEP’s licensed technicians are ready to dive in. We specialize in swift, no-mess garbage disposal repairs and full-system upgrades, using durable, energy-efficient units that chew through food scraps and protect your pipes from clogs. From diagnosing mysterious humming to rewiring the power switch or replacing the entire unit, our crew arrives with stocked trucks, transparent pricing, and a knack for leaving your countertops cleaner than we found them.
Beyond disposals, we’re the local pros homeowners call for plumbing fixture replacements that instantly refresh a room’s look and function. Swap out that corroded sink, swap in a touchless faucet, or trade the squeaky toilet for a sleek, water-saving model—all installed the same day, backed by HEP’s workmanship guarantee, and delivered with Midwest-friendly service. Book today and experience why Rockford trusts HEP to keep the water flowing, the drains clear, and the hassles out of home ownership.
FAQs
Do I need a plumber to replace my garbage disposal in Rockford, or can I do it myself?
While some homeowners with moderate DIY skills can swap out a like-for-like disposal, hiring a licensed Rockford plumber is strongly recommended. A professional can confirm the new unit’s horsepower matches your sink drain, check that the existing wiring and outlet are up to Rockford’s electrical code, replace worn gaskets or flanges, and test for leaks. If the disposal ties into a dishwasher, the pro will also correctly knock out the dishwasher inlet plug and secure the drain hose with an air-gap or high loop as required.
How long does a typical garbage disposal installation or replacement take?
A straightforward like-for-like replacement usually takes 60–90 minutes, including removal of the old unit, cleaning the mounting assembly, installing the new disposal, connecting the dishwasher drain (if present), and leak-testing. If you’re switching from no disposal to having one installed, allow 2–3 hours for additional electrical work, new switch placement, and potential modifications to the sink’s drain plumbing.
Which plumbing fixtures do you replace besides garbage disposals?
Our Rockford service team replaces faucets, sinks, dishwashers, ice-maker lines, toilets, shower valves, tub drains, laundry tubs, and outdoor spigots. We also upgrade shut-off valves and supply lines to stainless braided hoses for added safety. All fixture replacements come with disposal of the old unit and a workmanship warranty.
What signs indicate my garbage disposal needs replacement instead of repair?
Persistent leaks from the body or reset button, frequent circuit resets, loud metal-on-metal grinding, chronic jams, and motors older than 10–12 years often signal it’s time for replacement. Repairs such as flange resealing or jam removal make sense when the unit is under 7 years old and the housing isn’t rusted.
Are there local codes in Rockford I should know about when replacing a disposal or other fixture?
Yes. The City of Rockford follows the Illinois Plumbing Code. Key points include using a listed cord-and-plug set or hard-wired connection with a dedicated 15- or 20-amp GFCI-protected circuit for disposals, installing an accessible disconnect, using an air gap or high loop for dishwasher discharge, and ensuring all new fixtures have full-port shut-off valves. A permit is generally not required for direct fixture swaps, but electrical work beyond a simple plug-in may need one. Our technicians handle code compliance and can pull permits if necessary.
What warranties do you offer on garbage disposals and fixture replacements?
Most disposals carry 5- to 10-year manufacturer warranties on parts and motor. We provide a 1-year labor warranty covering any installation-related leaks, clogs, or electrical issues. For faucets, sinks, and toilets, we honor the respective manufacturer warranties (often lifetime on finish/function) plus our standard 1-year workmanship coverage. Extended service plans are available if you’d like longer labor protection.