How long do garbage disposals last?

• <div><p><a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/garbage-disposal-last.htm">Garbage disposals last</a> an average of about 10 years, so it may be time for a new model if it's getting up there in age. Other signs that it's time to bring in a <a href="https://www.angi.com/nearme/install-garbage-disposal/">local garbage disposal pro</a> include:</p><ul><li><p>Leaks under your disposal</p></li><li><p>Persistent clogs</p></li><li><p>Lingering odors</p></li><li><p>Lack of power</p></li><li><p>Unexplained noises</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

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Q: Can glass go in the garbage disposal?

• <div><p>Never put glass in the garbage disposal. It can damage your disposal or eject shards of glass out of the disposal and cause injury. If you get broken glass in your garbage disposal, turn it off and cut the power from the breaker, use a tool like pliers or tongs to remove the glass, and use a wet-dry vacuum to remove the remaining glass pieces. If you can&rsquo;t access the disposal safely, call a <a href="https://www.angi.com/nearme/garbage-disposal-repair/">garbage disposal repair pro</a>.</p></div>

Q: Do I need to have a garbage disposal to have a dishwasher?

• <div><p>No, you don&rsquo;t <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/garbage-disposal-necessary-dishwasher.htm">need a garbage disposal for a dishwasher</a>. A dishwasher will work without a garbage disposal. However, the two appliances pair well and are often installed together. It is rare to see a home with a dishwasher that doesn&rsquo;t have a garbage disposal, but that doesn&rsquo;t mean it's not possible. Each appliance serves its own purpose. </p></div>

Q: What tool is used to reset a garbage disposal?

• <div><p>Most garbage disposals have a reset button that can be triggered with a tool as simple and accessible as your index finger. That said, if you need to perform a more in-depth troubleshooting step, like manually moving the arms inside the unit or rotating the impeller plate, a hex wrench is the most common tool you&rsquo;ll need. Most garbage disposals come with a hex wrench.</p></div>

Q: Can you pour boiling water down the garbage disposal?

• <div><p>You can pour boiling water down the garbage disposal only when cleaning it. Use hot water to flush baking soda and vinegar down the drain for a quick clean-up. For running food down the disposal, always use cold water.</p></div>

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Five Star Sanitation

Five Star Sanitation

Customers say: Quality work

Recommended by 99% of Angi customers

7291 local quotes requested

We specialize in removal of all unwanted items, junk hauling, yard debris removal, trash removal, and more! We have trailers and dumpsters for any size job! We guarantee your satisfaction, and we won’t leave until the job is done right. We pride ourselves on the quality work we provide, while delivering great customer service! Check out all the services we offer below and call -or- click to schedule a free estimate today!

"Excellent service!! They got the dumpster set up very fast and had it delivered just as fast. They are very attentive to your project needs and are definitely worth booking with!"

Lilly A on October 2025

"Excellent service!! They got the dumpster set up very fast and had it delivered just as fast. They are very attentive to your project needs and are definitely worth booking with!"

Lilly A on October 2025