Common Garbage Disposal Problems We Fix
When your garbage disposal starts making unusual noises, emitting foul odors, or failing to operate entirely, our family-owned company brings 15 years of industry expertise to diagnose and resolve the issue quickly. Jamming represents approximately 60 percent of all disposal service calls, often caused by non-food items accidentally falling into the unit or fibrous foods like celery stalks wrapping around the impellers. We use specialized tools to safely clear obstructions without damaging the grinding components or motor assembly.
Leaking disposals present another frequent challenge that requires immediate attention to prevent water damage to your kitchen cabinets and flooring. These leaks typically originate from worn mounting gaskets, deteriorated plumber’s putty around the sink flange, or loose discharge pipe connections. Our senior technicians methodically inspect each potential failure point, ensuring we identify not just the obvious leak but any developing issues that could cause future problems. Electrical malfunctions, including tripped reset buttons, faulty wall switches, or damaged power cords, account for roughly 25 percent of disposal failures we encounter in Garfield, Hackensack, Hasbrough, Lodi, Passaic, Saddlebrook, Edison Township, Hasbrouck Heights, Highland Park, and Woodbridge, NJ.
Professional Installation and Replacement Services
Selecting and installing the right garbage disposal involves evaluating your household’s specific needs, existing plumbing configuration, and local building codes throughout Greater Bergen County. We provide free estimates on installation services, helping you choose between standard units perfect for smaller households and heavy-duty models designed for families who cook frequently. The installation process requires precise measurements to ensure proper fit within your existing cabinet space, adequate electrical supply to power the motor, and correct alignment with your sink’s drain opening.
Our installation process includes removing your old unit, thoroughly cleaning the mounting area, applying fresh plumber’s putty or gaskets to create watertight seals, and securing the new disposal with proper mounting hardware. We verify electrical connections meet current safety standards, test the unit’s operation with various food waste types, and adjust the discharge pipe alignment to optimize drainage flow. Each installation concludes with a comprehensive demonstration of proper operation techniques and maintenance recommendations to maximize your disposal’s lifespan.
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Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Performance
Regular maintenance significantly extends garbage disposal life expectancy, which typically ranges from eight to fifteen years depending on usage patterns and care quality. We recommend running cold water for 15 seconds before feeding waste into the disposal, maintaining water flow during grinding, and continuing water flow for 20 seconds after grinding stops to flush particles through your drain lines. This simple practice prevents accumulation of ground materials that could eventually cause clogs or unpleasant odors.
Our maintenance recommendations include:
- Weekly cleaning routine – Grind ice cubes with rock salt to remove debris buildup from grinding elements
- Monthly deodorizing treatment – Process citrus peels to naturally freshen the grinding chamber and eliminate bacterial growth
- Quarterly inspection schedule – Check for unusual sounds, test reset button functionality, and verify proper drainage speed
Emergency Disposal Services Available 24/7
Garbage disposal failures rarely happen at convenient times, which is why First Choice Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning & Electrical offers round-the-clock emergency services for urgent situations. Whether your disposal suddenly stops working during holiday meal preparation or develops a severe leak threatening cabinet damage, our trusted technicians respond promptly with fully equipped service vehicles. We maintain comprehensive parts inventory for most major disposal brands, enabling same-day repairs for many common issues.
Our transparent pricing approach means you’ll understand all costs before work begins, with financing options available for unexpected major repairs or replacements. Come home to comfort knowing your kitchen’s essential systems receive professional attention from experienced technicians who prioritize lasting solutions over temporary fixes.
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