Why Disposals Fail
Most disposal failures come down to three things: a jam (silverware, bones, fibrous vegetables), a tripped reset button after overheating, or a worn-out motor after years of use. Leaks usually mean a cracked housing or a failed seal — not something to keep running.
What to Try First
- Never put your hand in the disposal. Even unplugged, the blades can move.
- Hit the reset button on the bottom of the unit — a red or black button, often the fix for a disposal that just hums.
- Check under the sink for leaks before running it again — a leaking disposal can damage the cabinet.
- Call us if it's jammed, leaking, or dead — we carry common replacement units on the truck.
Our Repair Process
We diagnose jam vs. motor failure vs. leak on the spot. Simple jams and leaks are often fixed same-visit; a dead motor typically means same-day replacement rather than a multi-day repair.
Frequently asked
Is a garbage disposal repair covered by insurance?
Usually not — mechanical failure and wear are considered maintenance, not sudden damage. Leaks that caused water damage may be covered separately.
How long does a replacement take?
Most disposal replacements are completed in under an hour, same visit.