We are all constantly looking for ways to make our homes more comfortable, as well as to enhance efficiency. One of the things that most households require nowadays in order to achieve those goals is a garbage disposal unit. So, there is no doubt that you already have this device installed at home.
There is also no doubt that it comes with quite a lot of benefits. From protecting your plumbing system and reducing foul odors in your kitchen, to saving your time and boosting overall energy efficiency.
Clearly, this is a must-have device, and it is one that will last for a long time if properly taken care of. Yet, just like any other appliance, this can start exhibiting certain issues as time passes – issues that will call either for repairs or for complete replacement.
It is of utmost importance for you to notice certain signs that could be indicating problems with this unit. After all, if there are problems, then your device won’t be working properly, and you will lose on the efficiency you’ve been previously enjoying.
Not to mention that this could result in other problems, such as those with your plumbing system, and generally inconvenience you. Since that is not what you want, you have to notice the signs and act right away to have the issues resolved.
Of course, there are a lot of different signs that could be indicating problems with your garbage disposal, and thus call either for repairs or for replacements. What we are going to do right now is talk about the 3 most common signs that you should be on the lookout for, that may not be that obvious or dramatic, but that definitely call for your attention.
This way, you will know better than to ignore the problem, and you will, thus, act on time to have it resolved one way or another. So, without any more ado, let us check out the signs.
Table of Contents
1- Unusual Noise
It is completely normal for your garbage disposal unit to produce some amount of noise. In the end, that’s simply how these devices work, and while there are options with reduced noise, the truth is that some noise is sure to be present while they are working. When you first get the device, you’ll notice how it works, and you’ll get used to the actual noise.
Yet, if you start noticing some unusual noises coming from the device, you definitely shouldn’t ignore the problem, as that could be a clear sign that something is wrong.
Have you, for example, noticed your garbage disposal humming when you turn it on, but not actually working? Or, are there any grinding noises that aren’t common and that you’ve started hearing recently? Those could be signs of the blades not spinning even though the device is getting the necessary power, or perhaps of jammed impellers, a misaligned motor, or basically of any kind of internal damage.
No matter what the noise indicated, it is definitely for sure that the device requires attention, and that it has to be either repaired or replaced, so make sure not to ignore this sign.
2- Persistent Foul Odors
Once again, it is completely normal for these units to emit some amount of odors, due to all of the decomposing food particles. And, once again, you will get used to this over time, meaning you will know precisely what is normal and what isn’t.
Yet, if you notice that the foul odors are persistent, and that they are not going away even after you’ve cleaned the unit, that should be a clear indicator that there is something wrong with the actual appliance.
Maybe the food debris got stuck in the pipes or the unit itself, which lead to a bacterial buildup. Of course, you should try and do a thorough cleaning to fix this problem, as that could sometimes be what the unit really needs.
If, however, that doesn’t resolve the issue, you should consider having the device more thoroughly inspected, as it may need to be repaired or even completely replaced in case it shows to have run its course during the inspection.
3- Leaking Water
Leaking water is another serious problem, and another sign that there could be something wrong with your garbage disposal unit. The leaks can originate from various areas, such as the body of the unit, the discharge pipe, or perhaps the sink flange.
Whatever the source, though, the truth is that water can significantly damage the space under your sink, as well as lead to mold growth, which is definitely not what you want.
So, if you’ve noticed any kinds of leaks or signs of moisture, you should undeniably have the unit assessed. A simple repair may do the trick. Or, the assessment may show that the device is no longer able to function properly no matter how many repairs you do, or that you would have to do frequent repairs in order to keep it working, in which case replacing it is a more sensible solution.
How to Repair or Replace the Unit
Now, having learned about those common signs, what you’re wondering next is what to actually do when you notice them. That is, you want to know how to replace or repair a garbage disposal.
While I admire the enthusiasm and the willingness to try and do things alone, the truth is that you definitely shouldn’t tamper around this appliance on your own if you don’t have the necessary skills, no matter how small the issue may seem to be.
This, naturally, means that the best thing to do is hire professionals and let them do an inspection first. The inspection will reveal the problem, and the pros will then notify you of the best course of action – repair or replacement.
Finally, they will provide you with the service you need and you will get to continue living comfortably in your own home, having a perfectly working garbage disposal unit in your kitchen.
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