Have you noticed that your garbage disposal hasn’t been working as well as it used to? The average garbage disposal should last anywhere from 9-15 years after installation, depending on the quality of the disposal system. Here are signs you need to have yours replaced as well as some tips for extending the life expectancy.
If you suspect you need a replacement, contact Gotelli Plumbing for all your needs kitchen plumbing needs or worries!
How to Know When to Replace Garbage Disposal
There are several signs to be on the lookout for if you are unsure if your garbage disposal needs to be replaced.
Frequent Clogging
While a clogged garbage disposal isn’t completely uncommon, it can become much more frequent with an outdated system. If even the smallest obstructions cause a loss of functionality or cause you to reset your unit, it could mean the blades are dulling. If the blades are dull, this is a major sign you need a replacement garbage disposal.,
Unusual Odors from Drains
Since garbage disposals require you to run water while grinding the food items you are sending down the drain, the smell of these wet foods should disappear shortly after disposing them. However, if you notice a lingering odor coming from your disposal, this could mean that the food items are not being ground down properly and are sitting in your drain, causing a bad smell. If this is the case, you might be disposing of foods that are too solid into the drain, or that the blades could be jammed or losing their effectiveness at cutting.
Strange Noises
If you begin to notice different sounds coming from your disposal than you’re used to, this could be a sign that there is a malfunction in your garbage disposal. Noises such as rattling or grinding could indicate something might possibly be jammed or stuck inside. Even if your disposal is working the same and there is nothing clogging your system, this could also mean you need a replacement.
Poor Performance
If your disposal just flat-out doesn’t work as well as it used to, constantly needs resetting, shuts off randomly or takes much longer to process small food items, these are large signs that your garbage disposal is outdated and needs replacing.
As your garbage disposal loses its effectiveness over time, it will cause more issues with plumbing and become a hassle to deal with. For these types of situations, Gotelli Plumbing will know exactly the best route to take in terms of replacement.
How to Extend Your Garbage Disposal’s Lifespan
To avoid a costly garbage disposal replacement that is earlier than expected, there are a few home maintenance tips and tricks to help keep it running smoothly.
When disposing of food, use cold water to keep everything moving and flushing out your pipes properly. This will ensure any leftover food particles are cleared out, and that any possible solid grease or fats will not liquify and cling to the blades once they solidify.
Another easy method of keeping your garbage disposal clear is by avoiding hard or fibrous foods. Hard foods like kernels, fruit pits, or bones can jam the blades, as they do not blend well. Things like corn husks or vegetable stalks can wrap around the blades, causing them to jam as well. Foods like this are best thrown in the trash and left out of the garbage disposal.
Lastly, a sure way to prevent your garbage disposal from giving out earlier than expected, is to regularly clean it. A natural and non-harsh way of cleaning it can be as simple as pouring baking soda down the drain, followed by vinegar. This method is better than harsh chemicals or liquids that could possibly damage your disposal even more.
Call in the Plumbing Professionals
If you suspect your garbage disposal is due for a replacement, contact Gotelli Plumbing for quick installation at a fair price by the highest quality plumbers in Marin County.
