Garbage Disposal
Garbage Disposal | Garbage Disposal Repair | Plumbing | Washburn
Is your kitchen sink rumbling, grinding, or refusing to drain? A jammed or leaking disposal can bring meal prep to a halt—and the mess never waits for a convenient time. HEP’s local team in Washburn understands the urgency. We arrive with fully stocked trucks, quickly diagnose the issue, and give you straightforward options, whether a simple reset, blade realignment, or complete garbage disposal repair is needed.
From clearing stubborn clogs to replacing worn-out units, our licensed plumbers treat your home with care and back every fix with industry-leading warranties. Call, click, or text today and discover why Washburn homeowners say, “HEP Is On The Way!”
FAQs
What are the most common signs my garbage disposal needs repair?
If you notice persistent clogs, loud grinding or humming noises, water leaking from the unit or under the sink, foul odors that don’t go away after cleaning, or the disposal won’t turn on at all, those are clear signals your garbage disposal needs professional attention. In Washburn, hard water buildup can also shorten the life of internal components, so early troubleshooting is essential.
Can I troubleshoot a jammed garbage disposal myself before calling a plumber?
Yes. First, turn off the power at the wall switch and unplug the unit (or switch off the breaker). Use a flashlight to look for visible obstructions—never put your hand inside. Insert a ¼" Allen wrench into the bottom flywheel hole and rotate it back and forth to free the jam. Then press the red reset button on the bottom of the unit, restore power, and test. If the disposal still hums or trips the reset button, call a Washburn plumbing professional to prevent motor damage.
How long should a garbage disposal last in Washburn homes?
With proper use and routine maintenance, most disposals last 8–12 years. Factors that shorten lifespan include putting fibrous foods (celery, corn husks), grease, or large bones down the drain, as well as mineral buildup from Washburn’s water supply. Professional inspections and occasional cleaning with ice cubes and citrus peels can help maximize durability.
What foods or materials should I avoid putting in my garbage disposal?
Avoid fibrous vegetable peels (celery, asparagus, artichokes), starchy foods that expand (pasta, rice, potato peels), coffee grounds in large amounts, grease or oil, large bones, eggshell membranes, and non-food items like twist ties or glass. These can cause jams, dull blades, or clog pipes—prompting costly repairs in your Washburn kitchen.
Why is my garbage disposal leaking, and where does the leak usually occur?
Leaks typically develop at three points: the sink flange (where the disposal mounts to the sink drain), the dishwasher hose connection, or the discharge drainpipe. Flange leaks often stem from a failed plumber’s putty seal, while hose and pipe leaks may be due to loose clamps or deteriorated gaskets. A licensed Washburn plumber can pinpoint the source quickly and reseal or replace parts as needed.
Should I repair or replace my garbage disposal if it keeps breaking down?
Consider repair if your unit is relatively new (under 6 years), the issue is minor (jam, worn gasket, loose wire), or the motor still runs smoothly. Replacement is usually more cost-effective if the unit is over 10 years old, the motor has burned out, repair costs exceed 50% of a new unit’s price, or you want a higher-powered disposal to handle larger loads. Our Washburn plumbing team can assess your disposal’s condition and provide an honest recommendation.