Signs the Garbage Disposal Needs Repair or Replacement
A common plumbing problem that has plagued households for ages is clogged kitchen sink drains. Kitchen sinks have to handle more than most drains in the home, and after too much mishandling, the drain line can clog. However, garbage disposals can help prevent this problem. The risk of clogs is reduced by grinding up food waste small enough to travel safely through the plumbing. However, what happens when the garbage disposal needs service?
Recognizing the signs of garbage disposals needing replacement or repair can help homeowners get them fixed quicker so they can return to helping the plumbing. Here is a quick article to help homeowners understand when to call professional plumbers for garbage disposal repair or replacement.
Stange or Unusual Noises
The first sign that the garbage disposal needs attention is a change in the noises it makes. Garbage disposals make a loud grinding noise when functioning correctly, so it can be difficult to differentiate between its normal noise and noises that indicate problems. However, noticing the difference is easier once homeowners are familiar with the sound their disposal makes normally. Here are some noises emitted by struggling garbage disposals:
- Humming: In some cases, garbage disposals will make a loud humming noise but won’t show signs that it is running. If this is the case, there may be a jam in the unit or a problem with the motor.
- Screeching and Rattling: Screeching and rattling noises can signal that something is lodged in the disposal’s blades. In some cases, it may indicate the blades or another component has come loose and are rattling around in the unit.
- No Noise: No noise when turned on is an obvious sign that something is wrong. Check the overload protector and ensure it hasn’t tripped, causing the red reset button to drop down. If it has, the reset button may fix the issue.
Unreliable Service
Other common signs that garbage disposals are struggling and may need repair or replacement have to do with their function. Garbage disposals should perform reliably for years. If the garbage disposal’s reset button must be used often due to frequent tripping or the disposal doesn’t work as quickly as it once did, it’s a sign that something is wrong with the unit.
The garbage disposal may not work quickly anymore due to more minor and easily fixed issues such as dull blades or another underlying problem. A plumber can inspect the garbage disposal unit to determine the cause of its loss of function and if repair or replacement is necessary.
Bad Odors
Garbage disposals are an excellent tool for quickly and easily disposing of kitchen waste, but when they become broken or clogged, they can cause many problems. One common problem indicating an issue with the garbage disposal is bad smells that will linger until it’s fixed.
The foul odor is usually due to trapped food and debris getting stuck inside the disposal. Food waste can be dislodged from the blades by running ice in the garbage disposal. However, in some cases, homeowners will need a plumber to repair the disposal and eliminate the unpleasant smell.
About Super Plumbers
Super Plumbers is a family-owned and operated business serving Tyler, TX, and the surrounding communities for over ten years. They provide competitive and upfront pricing, personalized service, and financing. Call them today for kitchen plumbing and garbage disposal services in Tyler, TX.
