Get matched with top garbage collectors in Hennessey, OK

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. 

The main issue with garbage disposals is clogging. This can mean a clogging of the pipes that expel the food along with water, or a clogging of the mechanical parts themselves. The problem lies in the solution because you can’t easily see clogs if they’re inside the system, and reaching in to dislodge stuck items is a risky proposal. Call a pro and ask what they would do, but if you can’t see the clog easily, and running the unit won’t free it, you need to let a professional handle the fix. 

Many homeowners wonder if a garbage disposal is necessary with a dishwasher. After all, many dishwashers are powerful enough to handle bits of food with no issues.  

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.

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’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.