Garbage disposal repair fixes jams, leaks, electrical faults and drain connection problems in an under-sink food waste disposer. When the unit is worn out or the housing leaks, a plumber replaces it with a properly sized new disposal.
Common garbage disposal problems
| Symptom | Likely cause | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Hums but doesn’t spin | Jammed flywheel from a bone, pit or utensil | Turn off power; a plumber can free the jam |
| Doesn’t turn on at all | Tripped reset button, breaker or failed switch | Press reset on the bottom; call if it won’t restart |
| Leaks from the bottom | Internal seal failure or cracked housing | Usually requires replacement |
| Leaks at the sink flange | Loose mounting or failed putty | Reseal the flange |
| Leaks at the side | Loose dishwasher or drain connection | Tighten or replace the connection |
| Slow drain or backup | Clog in the trap or drain line | Drain cleaning |
Never put your hand inside a disposal. Always switch it off and disconnect power before attempting anything.
What not to put down a garbage disposal
- Grease, oil and fat, which harden in the pipes
- Rice, pasta and bread, which swell into paste
- Coffee grounds and eggshells, which build sediment
- Fibrous scraps like celery, corn husks and onion skins
- Bones and fruit pits
Most kitchen drain clogs plumbers see are linked to these items. If your sink is backing up even when the disposal runs, see drain cleaning.
Repair or replace?
Jams, reset trips and loose connections are usually repairable. A disposal that leaks from its body, has a burned-out motor or is very old is generally replaced. When replacing, the plumber can match horsepower to your household and confirm the dishwasher connection and electrical setup.
Disposal repairs are a routine part of plumbing repairs in Boca Raton, and many plumbers can handle them in a single visit.
What affects the cost?
- Repair vs. replacement
- Disposal size and horsepower if replacing
- Whether the switch, cord or drain connections need updating
- Whether a clog in the drain line also needs clearing
What happens when you call
- 01
Describe what it’s doing
Humming, leaking, silent or clogged, and where you are.
- 02
Connect with a plumber
We route your call to an independent local plumber.
- 03
Diagnose
The plumber checks power, jams, seals and the drain.
- 04
Repair or replace
The disposal is repaired or a new unit is installed and tested.
Garbage Disposal Repair service area in Boca Raton
Garbage disposal calls are connected throughout Boca Raton, for kitchens in single-family homes, townhomes and condos.
Downtown & East Boca
- Downtown Boca Raton33432
- East Boca Raton33431, 33432, 33487
Central Boca
- Central Boca Raton33486, 33431
- Boca Del Mar & Boca Pointe33433
West Boca
- Boca West & Century Village33434
- Broken Sound & Northwest Boca33496, 33487
- Sandalfoot Cove & Loggers' Run33428
- West Boca Raton33498, 33428, 33433, 33434, 33496
ZIP codes covered: 33427, 33428, 33429, 33431, 33432, 33433, 33434, 33464, 33481, 33486, 33487, 33488, 33496, 33497, 33498, 33499.
ZIPs 33427, 33429, 33481, 33488, 33497 are PO Box ZIP codes and 33464, 33499 are single-organization ZIP codes, so they don’t map to one neighborhood. If your mailing address uses one of them, just tell us the street location when you call.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my garbage disposal humming but not working?
The grinding plate is likely jammed. Switch off power at the wall switch and breaker. A plumber can free the jam using the hex socket on the bottom, or replace the unit if the motor has failed.
Where is the reset button on a garbage disposal?
Usually a small red or black button on the bottom of the unit under the sink. Press it after the motor has cooled.
Can a leaking disposal be fixed?
Leaks at the sink flange or drain connections are usually fixable. Leaks from the body of the unit generally mean it needs replacing.
How long do garbage disposals last?
Lifespan varies with use and model. Many last around 8 to 15 years. Frequent jams, leaks or loud grinding are signs it’s wearing out.
Can I put grease down a garbage disposal?
No. Grease and oil solidify in the drain pipes and are one of the main causes of kitchen clogs.