Garbage Disposal Repair & Installation
What official sources say about garbage disposal repair & installation, and how to reach a local plumber by phone.
Safety first
InSinkErator manual says remove wrenchette before reconnecting power to the disposer.
InSinkErator manual says do not hold the wrenchette when operating the disposer.
InSinkErator manual says turn the power switch to the off position before attempting to clear a jam, removing an object from the disposer or pressing reset button.
Signs to look for
InSinkErator manual says an odor from the disposer is usually a sign of food buildup.
InSinkErator guide says over time, food particles may accumulate in the grind chamber and baffle.
Why it happens
InSinkErator guide says if motor stops while disposer is operating, disposer may be jammed.
Seattle Public Utilities says food waste from garbage disposals can also clog pipes and cause sewer backups.
Safe steps you can take
InSinkErator guide says first turn on cold water and then turn on the disposer.
InSinkErator manual says continue running cold water for several seconds after grinding is completed to flush the drain line.
InSinkErator manual says work wrenchette back and forth until it turns one full revolution.
InSinkErator guide says after grinding is complete, turn disposer off and run water for a few seconds to flush drain line.
InSinkErator manual says STOP! If connecting a dishwasher, remove drain plug in step 15.
InSinkErator manual says NOTICE: Drain plug cannot be replaced once it is knocked out.
How to choose a plumber
Advice from consumer protection agencies:
In Illinois, homeowners should request an estimate of the cost of work to be done and compare it to estimates from at least two other contractors.
In Illinois, homeowners should find out if complaints have been filed against the contractor by contacting the Attorney General's office, Better Business Bureau and local Chamber of Commerce.
In Texas, even with a reputable business and a sound written contract in place, you should not pay in full until the work is complete and you have inspected it yourself and found it satisfactory.
In Texas, homeowners should make sure everything promised to you is in the written contract.
In Illinois, plumbers are regulated by the Illinois Department of Public Health and must be licensed by the IDPH to engage in business in Illinois.
If your state or locality has licensing laws, make sure the contractor's license is current.
Once you have narrowed your options, get written estimates from several firms.
Questions homeowners ask
Why did my garbage disposal stop working suddenly?
InSinkErator guide says if motor stops while disposer is operating, disposer may be jammed.
How long should you run water after running the disposer?
InSinkErator guide says after grinding is complete, turn disposer off and run water for a few seconds to flush drain line.
Related plumbing services
Sources
- Home Repair and Construction: How to Choose a Contractor - Illinois Attorney General
- Hiring a Contractor | Federal Trade Commission - Federal Trade Commission (2014)
- Badger® 1, Badger® 1XL, Badger® 100, Badger® 5, Badger® 5XL, Badger® 500, Badger 5XP®, Badger® 7XL, Badger® 700 - InSinkErator
- Fats, Oils, and Grease Clog Pipes - Utilities | seattle.gov - Seattle Public Utilities
- How to Avoid Home Improvement Scams | Office of the Attorney General - Texas Attorney General