Garbage Disposal Repair and Replacement: A Homeowner’s Guide

Common Garbage Disposal Problems

A garbage disposal is one of the hardest-working appliances in your kitchen. When it stops working, it disrupts your daily routine. Most disposal problems fall into a few categories, and some are easy to fix yourself.

Disposal Won’t Turn On

If your disposal doesn’t make any sound when you flip the switch:

• Check the power: Make sure it’s plugged in (under the sink) and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped
• Press the reset button on the bottom of the unit
• If it still won’t power on, the switch or motor may be faulty

Disposal Hums but Doesn’t Spin

A humming sound means the motor is getting power but the flywheel is stuck. Turn off the disposal, then:

1. Insert an Allen wrench (usually 1/4 inch) into the hole on the bottom of the unit
2. Turn it back and forth to free the flywheel
3. Remove any debris from inside the disposal using tongs or pliers (never your hands)
4. Press the reset button and test

Disposal Is Leaking

Leaks can come from three places:

• Top (sink flange): The mounting ring or putty seal has failed. Tightening the mounting bolts or replacing the plumber’s putty may fix it.
• Side (dishwasher connection): The hose clamp at the dishwasher inlet may be loose.
• Bottom: Internal seals have failed. A bottom leak usually means replacement is the best option.

Slow Draining

If water backs up in the sink when the disposal runs, the drain line is partially clogged. Disconnect the P-trap and clean it out. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage disposal components.

When to Repair vs. Replace

Replace your garbage disposal if:

• It’s more than 10 years old
• It has a crack or bottom leak
• The motor has burned out
• It frequently jams despite clearing
• Persistent bad odors that cleaning doesn’t resolve

Repair is worth it when the issue is a simple jam, a loose connection, or a faulty switch on an otherwise functional unit.

Garbage Disposal Replacement Cost

For a new garbage disposal installation in Northern Colorado:

• Basic disposal (1/3 HP): $150 to $250 installed
• Mid-range disposal (1/2 to 3/4 HP): $250 to $400 installed
• Premium disposal (1 HP+): $400 to $600 installed

We generally recommend at least a 1/2 HP disposal for most households. Larger families or frequent cooks benefit from 3/4 HP or higher.

Tips for Extending Your Disposal’s Life

• Always run cold water before, during, and after using the disposal
• Feed waste in gradually; don’t overload it
• Avoid putting fibrous foods (celery, corn husks), grease, pasta, rice, or bones down the disposal
• Clean it monthly by grinding ice cubes and citrus peels
• Never put your hand inside the disposal

Get Your Disposal Fixed or Replaced

JT Plumbing Heating & Air repairs and installs garbage disposals for homes throughout Northern Colorado. We serve Fort Collins, Loveland, Windsor, Greeley, Wellington, Berthoud, Longmont, Johnstown, Mead, Evans, and Eaton.

Call us at (970) 818-1613 to schedule a service appointment.