Garbage Disposal Repair & Installation

Garbage disposals are reliable appliances but can develop issues, particularly when used improperly or when components wear out. A jammed disposal is the most common problem—the unit hums when turned on but doesn't grind. This typically results from foreign objects (utensils, bottle caps, bones) lodging between the impellers and grinding ring, or from hard food items creating blockages. Most jams can be cleared using the disposal's hex wrench slot on the bottom, though some require disassembly. A disposal that doesn't run at all (no sound when switched on) usually indicates electrical issues including a tripped circuit breaker, a tripped thermal overload reset button on the disposal itself, a faulty wall switch, or a blown GIF outlet. We systematically diagnose and resolve electrical problems. Leaking disposals can leak from several locations—the top mounting assembly where the disposal connects to the sink, the side discharge where it connects to drain pipes, or the bottom of the disposal unit. Top leaks usually result from worn or improperly seated mounting assemblies, side leaks indicate damaged gaskets or loose connections, and bottom leaks suggest internal seal failure requiring replacement. Unusual noises including loud grinding, rattling, or metallic sounds indicate foreign objects in the disposal, worn bearings, or loose mounting hardware. Foreign objects should be removed immediately to prevent motor damage. Slow draining from the disposal suggests partial blockages in the discharge pipe, inadequate water flow during use, or disposal not grinding food finely enough. We address the specific cause. Disposal not fully grinding food waste or leaving large particles indicates dull blades (actually impellers), worn grinding rings, insufficient motor power for household needs, or food waste inappropriate for disposal. Some issues require repair while others suggest replacement makes better sense. We provide honest assessments helping you make informed decisions about repair versus replacement based on disposal age, repair costs, and overall condition.

Many garbage disposal problems can be repaired economically, particularly for newer units in generally good condition. Our repair services restore reliable disposal operation and extend appliance life. Unjamming disposals involves shutting off power for safety, using the hex wrench (usually 1/4 inch) in the bottom socket to manually turn the motor and free the jam, removing foreign objects from the grinding chamber, testing operation, and ensuring impellers move freely. This repair typically takes 30-60 minutes and prevents motor burnout from prolonged jamming. Resetting tripped thermal overload involves locating the reset button (red button on the bottom of the disposal), pressing it firmly until it clicks, and testing operation. Thermal overload protection prevents motor damage from jams or overwork, and it resets easily once the problem is resolved. Fixing leaks depends on location—top leaks usually require removing the disposal, replacing the mounting assembly gasket and properly reseating, then reinstalling with proper tightening. Side discharge leaks require replacing gaskets and ensuring tight connections to drain pipes. Bottom leaks generally indicate internal seal failure and usually require replacement rather than repair. Electrical repairs address switch problems, loose wiring connections, or GFCI outlet issues. We diagnose electrical problems systematically and implement appropriate repairs. Replacing worn mounting hardware addresses disposals that seem loose or vibrate excessively, requiring mounting assembly tightening or replacement. Some repairs make economic sense while others don't, particularly for disposals over 10 years old. A good rule of thumb: if repair costs exceed 50% of replacement cost and the disposal is over 8 years old, replacement typically provides better long-term value. We provide honest recommendations based on your specific situation, always prioritizing your best interest rather than maximizing our revenue.

Installing or replacing a garbage disposal involves plumbing and electrical work requiring professional expertise for proper function, code compliance, and safety. Our installation services ensure reliable operation and prevent common problems resulting from improper installation. For disposal replacement, the process includes shutting off electrical power and disconnecting wiring, disconnecting discharge drain connections, removing the old disposal from the mounting assembly, removing the old mounting assembly if worn or incompatible, cleaning the sink drain opening, installing new mounting assembly with proper sealing, hanging the new disposal on the mounting assembly, connecting discharge pipe with proper gaskets and sealing, connecting electrical supply per code (hardwired or plug connection), and thoroughly testing for leaks and proper operation. Installation typically takes 1-2 hours. For adding disposal to a sink without one, additional work includes modifying the drain configuration from a standard basket strainer to disposal mounting, installing dedicated electrical service (typically 15-amp circuit), running electrical wiring from panel or nearby outlet, and ensuring adequate space under sink for disposal clearance. This project typically takes 2-3 hours. Disposal selection considerations include motor size (horsepower) where 1/3 HP works for light use and small households, 1/2 HP suits average household needs, 3/4 HP handles heavier use and larger families, and 1 HP provides maximum grinding power for serious cooks and large families. Feed type options include continuous feed (runs constantly while switch is on, most common) and batch feed (requires cover insertion before operating, safer for homes with children). Noise levels vary—premium disposals include sound dampening insulation making them significantly quieter than economy models. Build quality affects longevity—disposals with stainless steel grinding components last longer than those with galvanized steel components. Warranty length indicates manufacturer confidence and typically ranges from 1-10 years. We help you select appropriate disposal size and features for your household needs and budget. All installations include proper mounting and sealing to prevent leaks, correct electrical connection per code, proper discharge pipe connection and sealing, and thorough testing before completing the job.

Garbage disposals are durable appliances but require proper use to prevent problems and extend their lifespan. Following these guidelines prevents most disposal issues. Always run cold water before, during, and for 15 seconds after using the disposal. Cold water solidifies any grease or oils so they can be ground and flushed through pipes. Hot water can melt grease, which then flows down pipes where it cools and solidifies, creating clogs. Feed food waste gradually rather than cramming large amounts at once. Large loads can jam the disposal and create clogs in drain lines. Break or cut large items into smaller pieces before disposal. Cut fibrous vegetables like celery and corn husks into small pieces or dispose in trash, as long fibers can wrap around impellers. Run disposal regularly even when not disposing food—running it with water helps prevent rust and corrosion, clears residual food particles, and ensures components don't seize from lack of use. Avoid problematic items including grease, oil, and fats (these solidify in pipes creating clogs), fibrous vegetables in large amounts (celery, corn husks, onion skins), expandable foods (rice, pasta, bread) that absorb water and swell, hard items (bones, fruit pits, popcorn kernels) that damage blades, coffee grounds (create dense sediment in pipes), eggshells (create granular waste that contributes to clogs), non-food items (bottle caps, twist ties, rubber bands, plastic), and medications (dispose properly at pharmacies or through approved programs). Potato peels deserve special mention—small amounts are fine, but large amounts create starchy paste that clogs pipes. Citrus peels provide natural cleaning and deodorizing—occasionally grinding lemon or orange peels cleans the disposal and provides fresh scent. Ice cube grinding helps sharpen impellers and remove stuck-on waste. Periodic disposal maintenance includes running it regularly with water, cleaning with ice and citrus peels, checking for leaks, and listening for unusual sounds indicating developing problems. Most disposals last 8-12 years with proper use and care. Following these guidelines maximizes disposal life and prevents most common problems.

Garbage disposals contain powerful motors and sharp grinding components that demand respect and proper safety procedures. Always turn off power before placing hands into disposal—use the wall switch to ensure power is off, and for serious jam clearing or repairs, turn off the circuit breaker controlling the disposal. This eliminates risk of accidental activation causing serious injury. Never put hands into disposal while it's running or when power is on. Use tongs or pliers to remove foreign objects, never fingers. Most disposals include a hex wrench specifically for manual jam clearing from the bottom, eliminating need to reach into the grinding chamber. Use the provided wrench from the bottom rather than reaching in from the top. Wait for blades to stop completely before putting anything in the disposal—impellers continue spinning briefly after turning off the switch. Teach children not to operate or play with the disposal. Many serious injuries occur when children activate disposals. Consider batch-feed disposals (requiring cover insertion before operation) for homes with young children, as they're safer than continuous-feed models. Never use chemical drain cleaners in disposals—these harsh chemicals can damage disposal components and create hazardous splashing when disposal is operated. If disposal clogs occur, use professional drain cleaning rather than chemicals. Install a dedicated electrical circuit for the disposal—sharing circuits with other high-draw appliances can cause tripped breakers. Most disposals require 15-amp dedicated circuits. Follow proper switch installation—wall switches should be mounted where they're easily accessible but not where they might be accidentally activated (avoid placing directly above disposal where leaning against wall could activate it). Consider air-switch systems (activated by air pressure from counter-top button) or toe-kick switches for safer activation. If disposal makes unusual sounds, turn it off immediately and investigate—continuing to run a damaged disposal can cause motor burnout or break grinding components into pieces that clog drains. Professional service addresses unusual sounds safely before they become serious problems.

Garbage disposal installation and repair require both plumbing and electrical expertise along with knowledge of various disposal models and configurations. At Down Right Plumbing, Doug has extensive experience with garbage disposal installation and repair throughout Rockwall and the DFW area, providing reliable service and expert workmanship. Our comprehensive garbage disposal services include repair of jammed, leaking, or malfunctioning disposals, complete disposal replacement with removal and disposal of old units, new disposal installation for sinks without existing disposals, help selecting appropriate disposal size and features for your needs, proper electrical connection per code requirements, and same-day service available for most disposal issues. Doug is experienced with all major disposal brands including InSinkErator, Waste King, KitchenAid, Moen, and others. We help you select disposals balancing features, performance, and budget constraints. Our installations include proper mounting with leak-free sealing, correct electrical connection meeting code requirements, proper discharge pipe connection preventing drain problems, thorough testing ensuring reliable operation, and disposal of old units (we haul them away). All installation and repair work is backed by workmanship warranties, and manufacturer warranties are maintained through our professional installation. We provide transparent upfront pricing with detailed estimates before beginning work—you'll know exactly what to expect with no hidden fees. We work efficiently to complete most disposal services in 1-2 hours, minimizing disruption to your kitchen activities. Doug respects your home with careful work practices and thorough cleanup. We serve Rockwall, Heath, Fate, Royse City, McLendon-Chisholm, and throughout DFW with reliable, professional garbage disposal services. Whether your disposal is jammed, leaking, completely failed, or you want to add disposal convenience to a kitchen that doesn't have one, trust Down Right Plumbing for expert service that ensures reliable operation and lasting satisfaction. Contact us today to schedule garbage disposal service or discuss new disposal installation for your kitchen.