
When to Repair and When to Replace Your Garbage Disposal
A garbage disposal is one of the most useful appliances in your kitchen, making cleanup quick and easy by grinding up food waste and flushing it down the drain. However, like any appliance, it will eventually run into issues. When your garbage disposal stops working properly, you may wonder whether it’s worth repairing or if it’s time to replace it altogether.
In this guide, we’ll explore the common problems garbage disposals encounter, when a repair makes sense, and when replacement is the better option. We’ll also cover the benefits of hiring a professional to ensure the job is done right, whether you decide to repair or replace your disposal.
Common Garbage Disposal Problems
Understanding the typical issues that affect garbage disposals can help you determine whether your unit can be repaired or if a replacement is necessary. Below are the most frequent problems homeowners face:
1. Jams and Clogs
- Cause: Hard or fibrous food items, such as bones or celery, can get stuck in the blades.
- Solution: Unclogging the disposal by turning off the power and using a hex key to manually rotate the blades.
2. Leaks Under the Sink
- Cause: Leaks often occur due to worn-out seals, loose fittings, or cracks in the unit.
- Solution: Tighten connections or replace worn seals. If the housing of the disposal is cracked, a replacement is usually necessary.
3. Foul Odors
- Cause: Food residue can build up in the disposal, causing unpleasant smells.
- Solution: Clean the unit by running it with baking soda, vinegar, and ice cubes.
4. No Power or Strange Noises
- Cause: Electrical issues, such as a tripped breaker or loose wiring, can prevent the unit from turning on. Strange noises may indicate foreign objects stuck in the blades.
- Solution: Reset the disposal, check for tripped breakers, or inspect the unit for debris.
5. Blades Not Grinding Properly
- Cause: Blades can become dull over time or may stop spinning altogether.
- Solution: If the blades are dull, sharpening them might help. However, if the motor has failed, replacement is likely the best option.

When to Repair Your Garbage Disposal
Not every problem with a garbage disposal requires a full replacement. In many cases, minor issues can be resolved with a quick repair, saving you time and money.
Simple Jams or Clogs
If the disposal is not turning properly due to a jam, you can often fix it by turning off the power and manually rotating the blades using a hex key. If this resolves the issue, there’s no need to replace the unit.
Loose Connections or Minor Leaks
Leaks from loose fittings or worn gaskets can typically be repaired by tightening the connections or replacing the seals. If the leak is minor and caught early, a repair should be sufficient.
Electrical Issues
If your garbage disposal won’t turn on, try resetting it by pressing the reset button on the bottom of the unit. You should also check your breaker box for any tripped circuits. If the issue is electrical and not related to the motor, a repair is often possible.
Underperforming Blades
If the blades are not grinding food properly, sharpening them may restore the unit’s performance. This can often be done without disassembling the entire unit.
In general, if the disposal is under ten years old and the repairs are minor, it makes sense to opt for repair instead of replacement.

When to Replace Your Garbage Disposal
While repairs can solve many issues, some problems indicate that it’s time to replace the disposal. Knowing when a replacement is necessary can save you from wasting money on temporary fixes.
Frequent Repairs and Breakdowns
If your garbage disposal requires frequent repairs or stops working every few months, it may be more cost-effective to replace it with a new unit. Continuous breakdowns are often a sign that the motor is wearing out.
Cracks in the Housing
If the housing or casing of the disposal is cracked, it will leak water and cause damage under your sink. Cracked housing cannot be repaired, so replacing the entire unit is necessary.
Motor Failure
When the motor burns out or stops working, it usually isn’t worth repairing. A motor replacement can be as expensive as purchasing a new unit. If the motor has failed, it’s time to replace the disposal.
Older Models with Limited Features
Garbage disposals typically last between 8 to 15 years. If your unit is old and lacks modern features such as quieter operation or improved grinding technology, upgrading to a new model can be a better long-term investment.
Upgrading Kitchen Appliances
If you are remodeling your kitchen or upgrading appliances, it might make sense to install a new garbage disposal that matches the quality and efficiency of your other upgrades.

Benefits of Hiring an Expert for Repairs or Replacement
While some homeowners may feel comfortable tackling simple repairs themselves, hiring a professional ensures the job is done correctly. There are several benefits to bringing in an expert for garbage disposal repair or replacement.
Proper Installation
A faulty installation can lead to leaks or electrical issues. Professionals have the tools and experience to install the disposal correctly, ensuring it runs smoothly and safely.
Accurate Diagnosis
It can be difficult to determine the exact cause of a malfunction. An expert can quickly diagnose the problem and recommend the best solution, whether that’s a repair or a replacement.
Access to Quality Parts
Professionals have access to high-quality replacement parts that may not be available to the general public. This ensures your repair is durable and reliable.
Warranty Protection
Many new garbage disposals come with warranties, but improper installation can void them. Hiring a professional ensures your warranty remains intact, protecting your investment.
Safety Assurance
Working with plumbing and electrical systems carries risks. A licensed professional knows how to safely handle electrical wiring and plumbing connections, reducing the chance of accidents or damage.

How Much Does It Cost to Repair or Replace a Garbage Disposal?
The cost of repairing or replacing a garbage disposal varies based on the issue, the type of disposal, and labor fees in your area.
- Average Repair Cost: $75 to $250, depending on the complexity of the issue.
- Average Replacement Cost: $150 to $400, including the price of the new unit and installation fees.
While repairs are generally cheaper, investing in a new unit makes sense if the repair costs approach the price of a replacement.
Knowing when to repair or replace your garbage disposal can save you time, money, and frustration. Minor issues like clogs, loose connections, or electrical resets can often be resolved with simple repairs. However, if the motor has failed, the housing is cracked, or the unit is over ten years old, replacement is likely the better option.
Hiring a professional to handle repairs or installation ensures the job is done correctly, protecting both your investment and your home from potential damage. With proper maintenance and timely repairs, you can extend the life of your garbage disposal and avoid costly breakdowns in the future.