Repairs Vs. Replacement for Your Garbage Disposal

There are certain appliances in our homes where it's natural to struggle between the choice of repair or replacement when something has gone wrong, and the garbage disposal is a great example. There are several garbage disposal issues that can typically be handled easily enough with some basic repairs, but also some where replacing the unit is likely both the safer and more cost-effective move. 

At Dick Kearsley Service Center, we're here to help with all kinds of appliance repair needs around Ogden, Roy, Kaysville, Syracuse and nearby parts of Utah, including garbage disposals. Let's look at some of the more common issues that you might see with your garbage disposal, plus how to assess them and determine whether repair or replacement is the right call - a process our team of professionals is always happy to assist you with, as well.

Clogs

In the vast majority of cases, clogs in the garbage disposal are caused by something stuck inside - like a piece of silverware, bone or other foreign object. To get it out, you can use pliers to try and remove the obstruction, or even just turn on the water and let it run for a few minutes (while making sure nothing else is trying to go down as well). 

If that doesn't work, then you will likely need to take the garbage disposal apart and remove the obstruction manually. However, if your unit is too damaged or rusted from age (or if it just seems like a hassle), replacing the garbage disposal might be more effective and cost-efficient in the long run.

Leaks

Water leakage can be caused by anything from loose plumbing connections to a worn out rubber gasket. To diagnose the issue, you'll want to look for visible signs of deterioration or damage first, and then take apart the unit if needed. 

In some cases, leaks are easy enough to fix with basic repair parts like a new gasket or replacement bolts. But if your garbage disposal is old enough that you're seeing multiple leaks, or if it seems like it could be on its way out, you might want to consider full replacement. 

Noise

Garbage disposals can make some strange noises when something isn't right - and the source of the noise should usually be fairly easy to identify. In many cases, simply cleaning the unit and making sure all connections are tight can be enough to do the trick. There are also some parts that can cause grinding and other noises if they're worn or broken, like an impeller or flywheel, which can usually be replaced with relative ease. 

But if none of these options proves successful - or if you've already tried all of them multiple times - then it might be time to take the plunge and get a new garbage disposal. 

Motor Concerns

If you've begun to notice problems with the motor, such as reduced power or grinding noises, then you should probably replace the unit. Motor-related repair parts are hard to come by for many garbage disposals, and often times they don't provide much of a performance boost anyway. 

It's also important to remember that motors can be dangerous when tampered with - so unless you know exactly what you're doing, it's always best to err on the side of caution and go for replacement instead.

Simple Old Age

One factor to consider alongside those we've gone over here so far is the age of your unit. If your garbage disposal is getting up there, then it might be time to replace it - even if you haven't seen any real issues yet. 

Older units tend to have poorer performance, and often times they require more energy or water to operate as well. So while repairing an old garbage disposal can save you money in the short term, investing in a new one can save you money long-term. 

At Dick Kearsley Service Center, we're here to provide all the advice and services you need for your garbage disposal repair or replacement needs in Ogden, Roy, Kaysville, Syracuse and nearby parts of Utah. Don't hesitate to contact us today if you have any questions about any of our residential or commercial appliance repairs or AC and furnace repair services.