The ubiquitous hum of your garbage disposal grinding away food scraps is a familiar sound in kitchens across Falls Church, VA, Chevy Chase, MD, and the entire Washington, DC, metro area. But when that loud noise becomes a concerning gurgle or a deafening silence, it can leave you wondering: does the garbage disposal need some TLC or replaced?
This handy guide will equip you with the knowledge to tackle common garbage disposal issues, from routine cleaning to minor repairs. We’ll also help you determine when to call in the JWHI handyman pros.
Signs Your Garbage Disposal Wants Your Attention
Some of the common signs of a garbage disposal problem include:
Silence: Silence is not golden regarding your garbage disposal. When you flip the switch and nothing happens, it could indicate an electrical or motor issue.
Strange Noises: Sharp glass-shattering grinding sounds that differ from the usual whir could mean dull blades, object jams, or internal damage to the unit.
Slow Drainage: A partially clogged disposal or plumbing line usually causes slow drains. Cleaning can solve the problem.
Unpleasant Odors: Lingering food waste smells often indicate trapped debris or improper cleaning. Removing trapped food and sprinkling baking soda down the drain may help.
Warning: Always ensure the garbage disposal switch is OFF before clearing the drain.
When and How to Clean Your Garbage Disposal
Preventative maintenance goes a long way! Here’s how to keep your disposal running smoothly:
- The Monthly Grind: Grinding ice cubes once a month helps sharpen the blades and dislodge any small particles trapped within the unit.
- Citrus Power: Don’t underestimate the power of citrus. Periodically grind up lemon or orange peels in the disposal, and this natural stain-lifter will help break down grease buildup.
- Baking Soda and Vinegar: Baking soda is a natural odor eliminator. Pour half a cup of it, followed by a cup of vinegar, down the drain. The fizzing reaction helps loosen grime and deodorize. This treatment works wonders on carpet stains too!
- Disposal-Safe Utensil: Run cold water and grind a disposal-safe brush (available at most hardware stores) to scrub away any built-up residue.
Garbage Disposal Repair vs. Replacement
For minor issues like a tripped reset button or a simple jam, a DIY approach using a disposal wrench or pliers might be the solution. However, if you’re facing:
- Persistent Leaks: Leaks indicate damaged seals or internal components requiring professional repair or replacement.
- Motor Problem: Burning smells or a complete lack of power usually indicate a faulty motor, which is often more cost-effective than replacing the entire unit.
- Old Age: If your disposal is nearing 10-12 years old or has significant wear and tear, a replacement might be the best long-term solution.
Pro Tip: To avoid injury, don’t attempt electrical repairs yourself. If the disposal unit won’t turn on or isn’t working correctly, call JW Home Improvement for service.
When to Call JWHI Handyman Pros
Feel free to call JW Home Improvement’s experienced handyman team for any garbage disposal issue beyond your comfort level. We can diagnose the problem, recommend the most cost-effective solution, and get your disposal functioning like new quickly. Remember, a timely repair can save you the hassle (and expense) of a complete replacement later.
Garbage Disposal Repair or Replacement Near Me
Is your garbage disposal not working or causing trouble in the kitchen? Contact JW Home Improvement today, and we’ll tackle the problem, whether it needs a little TLC, repair, or replacement.
We are licensed in DC, MD, and VA, so you can trust our skilled professionals to install and repair all kinds of tiles, including floors, walls, and countertops. We also offer tile re-grouting services for home maintenance. To get started, call JW Home Improvement at (703) 899-3129, and our team of experts will handle everything for you. Or contact us online for a free estimate on our site.
