Your garbage disposal is one of the hardest-working appliances in your kitchen, grinding up food waste day after day. When it starts making strange noises, leaking, or refusing to turn on, you need to decide whether to repair or replace it.
At Fix It Today Plumbing, we help Tampa homeowners make informed decisions about their garbage disposals every day. Here is our guide to help you determine the right choice for your situation.
Signs Your Garbage Disposal Needs Repair
Minor issues often do not require full replacement. These include:
- Humming without grinding: Often indicates a jammed flywheel.
- Slow draining: Typically resolved by clearing a clog.
- Tripping the reset button: May indicate a minor electrical issue.
- Cost: Repairs typically range between $75 and $200.
When to Replace Your Garbage Disposal
Replacement is generally the better investment if the unit is more than 10 years old or experiencing the following:
- Persistent foul odors.
- Cracks in the disposal body.
- The motor burning out completely.
- Cost: New installations in Tampa typically cost between $250 and $500.
Preventing Problems
Extend the unit's lifespan by:
- Always running cold water during operation.
- Avoiding fibrous foods (like celery).
- Never pouring grease down the drain.
- Running the disposal regularly to prevent rust.
For service in Tampa, Brandon, and Hillsborough County, contact Fix It Today Plumbing at 813-743-7793.