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Garbage disposals are durable appliances that usually last at least eight years as long as you clean and maintain them. It’s relatively rare for a garbage disposal to break on its own, as most malfunctions happen due to user errors, like overstuffing the grinding compartment or damaging the blades by trying to dispose of metal or bone. Eventually, cracks or leaks could develop in the unit, which requires a full replacement. 

On average, a garbage disposal can last anywhere from 7 to 12 years, with many models functioning well for about 10 years. With heavy usage, a motor may last a minimum of five years, while grinding plates will wear down over time. It's generally a good idea to consider a replacement if your unit is approaching the 10-year mark. Other signs that it's time for a new disposal include frequent leaks, persistent clogs, lingering odors, lack of power, or unusual noises. If your unit is not that old, it's worth investigating if a less expensive part, like a rubber seal or a loose hose, is causing the issue.

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’t access the disposal safely, call a garbage disposal repair pro.

When a dishwasher discharges its wastewater, it uses a pump to quickly move a lot of water. If anything in the drain line or the garbage disposal impedes the high volume of water, it will back up into the sink through the drain or the garbage disposal. Following regular dishwasher maintenance tips like clearing clogs, keeping them cleared, and occasionally running the disposal will eliminate the problem.