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  • 5 Signs Your Garbage Disposal is About to Go

Featured Image Caption: Senior Man Wearing a Gloves Standing in Front of a Sink

Garbage disposals are a convenient and eco-friendly tool in the kitchen, but like any appliance, they have a limited lifespan. By recognizing these warning signs early on, you can save yourself from unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. Now let’s dive into the top five indicators that your garbage disposal might be on its last leg, and what you can do to extend its lifespan.

Strange Noises

When operating normally, a garbage disposal should make minimal noise—just a low hum or slight grinding sound. If you start to hear loud, clanging, or rattling noises coming from your disposal, it could be a sign that there’s something loose or broken inside. This could be caused by worn-out blades, loose mounting screws, or even foreign objects stuck in the disposal. If the noise persists after thoroughly checking and cleaning your disposal, it may be time to call a professional for repairs.

Foul Odors

It’s normal for your garbage disposal to have a slight odor, especially if it hasn’t been used in a while. However, persistent foul smells could be a sign of decaying food stuck inside the disposal or even a damaged seal allowing bacteria to grow. To combat this issue, run some ice cubes and lemon or orange peels through the disposal to freshen it up. If the smell persists, it’s best to have a plumber inspect and clean your disposal.

There are certain smells that you should be aware of when it comes to your garbage disposal. A rotten or sewage-like smell could indicate a clog in the drain line, while a burning smell could mean there is an electrical issue. If you notice any of these odors, be sure to address them promptly to avoid further damage to your garbage disposal and potential health hazards in your kitchen.

Frequent Clogs

It’s not uncommon for garbage disposals to experience occasional clogs, especially when large or fibrous food scraps are put down the drain. But if you notice that your disposal is getting clogged more often than usual, it could be a sign that the blades are dull or damaged. As a result, they’re unable to effectively break down food waste, leading to frequent clogs. If this is the case, it’s best to have a professional replace your disposal before it completely stops working.

If you do experience a clogged garbage disposal, try to safely unclog it to avoid further damage. First, make sure the power is turned off at the circuit breaker before attempting any repairs. You can try using a plunger or a specialized tool called a disposal wrench to dislodge the clog. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners as they can cause damage to your disposal and pipes. If the clog persists, it’s best to call a professional plumber for assistance, such as someone at Spartan Plumbing Inc.

Slow Draining

A properly functioning garbage disposal should drain water quickly and efficiently. If you notice that your sink is taking longer to drain after using the disposal, it could be a sign of a clog or blockage in the pipes. This can lead to water backing up and potentially damaging your disposal. To avoid this issue, regularly run cold water through your disposal while it’s running and avoid putting large amounts of food waste down the drain.

To properly use your garbage disposal, always make sure to run cold water before, during, and after use. This helps to flush the food waste down the drain and prevents clogs from forming. Avoid putting large amounts of food waste down the disposal at once and never put hard or fibrous foods like bones or celery stalks in as they can damage the blades. Don’t forget to regularly clean and maintain your disposal by running ice cubes, citrus peels, or specialized cleaning products through it. By following these simple guidelines, you can extend the lifespan of your garbage disposal and avoid costly repairs.

Age of the Disposal

Like any appliance, garbage disposals have a limited lifespan. On average, they last between 8-15 years with proper maintenance and usage. If your disposal is reaching the end of its expected lifespan or has already surpassed it, it’s best to start considering a replacement. Continuing to use an old and worn-out disposal can lead to frequent breakdowns and costly repairs.

If you have recently installed a new garbage disposal and are experiencing problems, first check the installation process. Make sure the disposal is properly connected and all parts are secured tightly. If everything seems to be in order, then the issue may lie with the disposal itself. Contact the manufacturer for assistance or refer to your warranty for any potential repairs or replacements. In some cases, it may be necessary to call a professional for further inspection and repairs.

Paying attention to these signs can help you catch any potential issues with your garbage disposal early on. Proper care and maintenance can also extend its lifespan, saving you time and money in the long run. Remember to always prioritize safety when dealing with a malfunctioning disposal and don’t hesitate to call a professional for assistance if needed. So keep an eye (and ear) out for these warning signs to ensure your garbage disposal stays in top shape and continues to make your kitchen clean-up a breeze.

By Dixie Somers
who is a freelance writer who loves to write for business, health, and women’s interests. She lives in Arizona with her husband and three beautiful daughters.

Member since October, 2022
View all the articles of Dixie Somers.

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