Professional garbage disposal repair costs can vary significantly based on several factors, including the brand and model of the disposal, the nature of the problem, the cost of replacement parts, and local labor rates. Generally, the cost of repairing a garbage disposal can range from $70 to $400, with most homeowners spending between $100 and $175 for a typical repair service.

Two common issues that require repair for garbage disposals and the associated costs are:

Clogs or Jams:

• Problem: Food or foreign objects can clog the disposal, preventing it from grinding properly. Sometimes the disposal may make a humming sound, indicating it is jammed.
• Repair: This often involves disassembling the unit to remove the obstruction. In some cases, a simple reset or using an Allen wrench to manually turn the blades can fix the issue.
• Cost: If it’s a simple clog that can be fixed without replacing parts, a professional might charge anywhere from $70 to $150.

Motor Repair or Replacement:

• Problem: If the motor burns out or fails, the garbage disposal will stop working entirely. This can happen due to wear and tear, improper usage, or electrical issues.
• Repair: Repairing a motor can be complex and might not always be cost-effective compared to replacement. If the motor can be repaired, it will involve labor-intensive work. In many cases, replacement might be recommended.
• Cost: For motor repairs, the cost can be quite high due to the complexity, potentially $150 to $350. However, if replacement is needed, and depending on the brand and model, the cost of a new unit plus installation might range from $250 to $400 or more.

Please note that these are rough estimates, and prices can vary by location and over time. It is always recommended to get a detailed quote from a professional repair service after they have assessed the issue. Also, in some cases, it might be more economical to replace a garbage disposal rather than repair it, especially if it is an older unit or if the repair costs are close to the price of a new disposal.

DIY Trouble Shooting (and Fixing) Common Garbage Disposal Problems

Two of the most common problems with garbage disposals that can often be fixed by homeowners include:

Garbage Disposal Not Turning On (No Sound):

Troubleshoot:

1. Check if the garbage disposal is plugged in.
2. Press the reset button located on the bottom of the disposal unit. This button will pop out if the disposal is overloaded or jammed to prevent damage.
3. Check your main electrical panel to see if the circuit breaker has tripped.

Fix:

1. If the disposal is not plugged in, simply plug it in.
2. If the reset button has popped out, wait for the unit to cool down for a few minutes, then press the reset button back in.
3. If the circuit breaker has tripped, flip it back to the “On” position.

Garbage Disposal Hums but Doesn’t Grind:

Troubleshoot:

2. This usually indicates a jam. First, make sure to turn off the disposal and unplug it or turn off the circuit breaker for safety.
3. Use a flashlight to look down into the disposal for foreign objects that might be causing the jam.

Fix:

2. If you see an object, use pliers or tongs to remove it. Never put your hand in the disposal.
3. If you can’t see anything, use an Allen wrench to manually turn the disposal’s grinding plates. There should be a hex-shaped hole on the bottom of the disposal. Insert the Allen wrench into this hole and turn back and forth to clear the jam.
4. Once you’ve cleared the jam, press the reset button, restore power, and test the disposal.

Safety Precautions: Before attempting to fix any issues with your garbage disposal, always ensure safety first:

• Turn off the power to the garbage disposal at the circuit breaker before attempting any repairs.
• Never put your hand into the disposal unit.
• Use proper tools like pliers or tongs to remove any obstructions.
• Use the reset button and the manual crank (Allen wrench) method as first-resort solutions.

If the disposal is still not working after you have taken these steps, or if you’re uncomfortable performing these actions, it may be best to call a professional. Remember, while these are common solutions for minor issues, if you’re in doubt, it’s safer and often more cost-effective in the long run to hire a professional to avoid damaging the unit or causing injury.

Find Garbage Disposal Repair Services Near You

Don’t allow Garbage Disposal problems to dampen your day! Act now and seek servicing or repairs to prevent further complications.

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