Garbage Disposal Services in Sacramento, CA

Frequently Asked Garbage Disposal Questions

Can I Replace My Garbage Disposal Myself?

Replacing a garbage disposal might seem manageable, but professional installation is highly recommended. DIY attempts can lead to installation errors, such as leaks or inefficient operation, eventually resulting in costly repairs. By opting for professional Sacramento garbage disposal installation from Premier Rooter and Plumbing, you secure correct installation, full compliance with local codes, and avoid potential frustrations.

Why Is My Garbage Disposal Leaking?

When you find a puddle of water under your sink, it's a clear sign your garbage disposal is leaking. Pinpointing the source of the leak is the first step to understanding the solution. 

Common causes of garbage disposal leaks include: 

• Loose or damaged sink flange (top leak): If water is dripping from where the disposal meets the sink drain, the issue is usually the sink flange. This connection is sealed with plumber's putty and secured by bolts. Over time, the putty can fail, or the bolts can loosen, causing a leak.
• Worn-out or cracked seals/gaskets: These degrade over time—even inner motor seals—and once compromised, leaks often appear at the bottom or sides. Bottom leaks usually signal internal seal failure or a cracked unit.
• Loose hose or drain‑pipe connections (side leak): Your disposal has at least one side connection—a drain line going to your home's main drain. If you have a dishwasher, a second hose connects it to the disposal. If these hose connections are cracked or the clamps have become loose, water will leak from the side. 
• Cracked disposal body or internal failure: Cracks in the casing or rusted-out housing point to a failing disposal, often the reset button area or bottom panel. These usually require full replacement.

If you are experiencing a disposal leak, our team of Sacramento garbage disposal repair experts can inspect your unit, diagnose the cause of the issue, and the necessary fix. 

What Is the Lifespan of a Garbage Disposal?

Typically, a garbage disposal has a lifespan of 10 to 12 years, influenced by its usage and maintenance. Additionally, the lifespan is affected by the waste volume and types of food processed. Incorrect items can overstress the disposal, reducing its lifespan and intensifying maintenance needs. We advise clients on optimal usage practices to enhance their disposal’s longevity. 

What Foods Should Never Go Down a Garbage Disposal?

To keep your garbage disposal running smoothly and avoid clogs or damage, it's crucial to know which foods to keep out. Putting the wrong items down the drain can lead to costly issues.

Here is a list of common foods you should never put down your garbage disposal:

• Grease, Fats, and Oils: While liquid when hot, they solidify in pipes as they cool, creating stubborn clogs that trap other debris. 
• Starchy foods: Foods like uncooked rice, pasta, and potato peels expand when they absorb water, quickly turning into a thick, paste-like sludge that causes blockages.
• Fibrous Vegetables: Stringy or fibrous foods, such as celery or corn husks, can tangle around the disposal's blades, jamming the motor.
• Coffee Grounds and Eggshells: These are two of the most commonly mistaken items. Coffee grounds don't grind up further; instead, they accumulate in pipes like dense, heavy sediment. Similarly, the thin membrane of an eggshell can wrap around the blades, and the ground-up shell particles contribute to clogs.
• Bones and Hard Pits: Your disposal is not designed to grind extremely hard items. Large bones (from steak, ribs, etc.) and hard fruit pits (from peaches, avocados, cherries) can damage or break the grinder blades and jam the motor.

Are There Eco-Friendly Garbage Disposal Options?

Yes, eco-friendly options are available, designed for efficiency and reduced environmental impact. Our Sacramento team assists clients in selecting energy-efficient models that fulfill their requirements while supporting sustainability.

These units consume less water and energy, aligning with California’s environmental mandates. Furthermore, modern disposals accommodate a wider variety of waste efficiently, decreasing the need for harmful chemical cleaning agents, benefiting both the environment and your household.