How can I maximize the life span of my garbage disposal?

• <div><p>As with many appliances, proper maintenance is key to maximizing your garbage disposal’s life span. If everyone in your household is on board with <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-keep-your-garbage-disposal-running.htm">proper care and maintenance</a>, like running water while operating the disposal, you should get plenty of years out of your unit. Avoid putting the wrong food items down the disposal, including pasta, rice, bread, and more.</p></div>

Do you need a garbage disposal for a dishwasher?

• <div><p>Many homeowners wonder<a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/garbage-disposal-necessary-dishwasher.htm"> if a garbage disposal is necessary with a dishwasher</a>. After all, many dishwashers are powerful enough to handle bits of food with no issues. </p><p>Still, your dishwasher should not act as a replacement for a disposal. Subjecting your dishwasher to continuous leftovers could lead to major clogs. If you don’t want a garbage disposal in your kitchen, simply scrape away any extra food into your trash can or compost pile.</p></div>

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Q: How often should you replace a garbage disposal?

• <div><p>Garbage disposals can last between 10 and 12 years, so if your unit is pushing its lifespan, it may be a good idea to replace it. If your unit isn&rsquo;t approaching the 10-year mark, try investigating other parts of the disposal to see if there's an affordable repair on the horizon. For example, rubber has a shorter lifespan than 10 years, connections and hoses loosen over time, and sink flanges can cause leaks that have nothing to do with disposals.</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: Is it worth it to repair a garbage disposal?

• <div><p>Whether you choose to repair your garbage disposal will depend on the problem. For minor issues like a bad seal, you can fix the unit for less than $10. If the motor unit is broken, which can easily cost $150, you may want to consider replacing the entire disposal if it&rsquo;s getting on in years. </p></div>

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*The Angi rating for Garbage Removal companies in Los Alamos, NM is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Garbage Removal needs.

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Last update on October 31, 2025

Reviewed in December 2022
The removal of two trees was executed professionally and safely. Great customer service and the clean up was spot on. Highly recommend Tree Experts LLCâ ¦..
Tree Experts LLC
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Reviewed in December 2016
We signed a contract with Avi Avni, the owner of Absolute Wood Creations LLC, in the middle of August for a three week renovation of a condo. He claimed to be a professional, responsive, punctual and efficient contractor. However, during the first three weeks after the contract was signed not...
ABSOLUTE WOOD CREATIONS LLC
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Reviewed in February 2015
They came on time and they removed stains on my carpet.The price was accurate for the job.
DanCare Carpet Tile & Upholstery Cleaning Inc
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Reviewed in September 2014
I bought the tub- they removed old tub and replaced it. They were ontime- professional and charged a fair price.
Phc - plumbing and heating
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Reviewed in March 2014
They used a special device and removed almost all of the stain. Their work is well worth the price.
Chem-Dry of Albuquerque and New Mexico
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Reviewed in January 2014
Perfect. The young man came, neatly removed the old door and did an absolutely perfect installation. This was the second time we used them. And it was done in a day. We've already lined up another window replacement. It's not inexpensive but you aren't waiting months for a contractor to...
Dreamstyle Remodeling
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Reviewed in July 2010
Kyle was punctual and polite. In an hour he'd done a great job on all the carpets, including removing 6 year old paint drips from a cream colored carpet. I'm very pleased with the work and wish I'd done it sooner!
Sebastians Carpet Care
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Reviewed in June 2006
The work was done to my satisfaction. There were a few problems, mostly out of the company's control. Because, of road work in front of my house, the removal had to be delayed over the weekend. The company said they left me a message telling me this, but I did not get it. The tree was cut down...
Bratt Tree Co
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Waste, Junk, Building Materials and Debris Removal and Hauling

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Lawn Care Fall / Spring Clean Up Service

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Yanez Appliance Techs

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Fantastic Floors and more

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Proper Care Services LLC.

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Albuquerque Junk Removal & Hauling

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