Garbage Disposal Repair and Installation in Algonquin, IL
A faulty garbage disposal can quickly turn into a hassle, especially after a long day when your sink is full and you need it cleared fast. Whether your unit is jammed, leaking underneath, won’t power on, or sounds like it’s crunching rocks, our team can usually get it back in working order the same day.
Give us a call at 224-348-8362 and we’ll evaluate your unit honestly: is a repair worthwhile or should you invest in a new disposal? Factors like the unit’s age, the nature of the problem, and repair costs compared to replacement all play a role. For instance, a disposal over a decade old with a burnt motor is better off being swapped out, whereas a newer unit stuck on debris just needs clearing. We quote you upfront before any work begins.
We can also clear clogged drains caused by disposal issues with professional drain cleaning. If your disposal is part of a kitchen update, check out our kitchen remodeling and faucet and fixture installation services to complete the job.
Our Garbage Disposal Services
Garbage Disposal Repairs
Common issues include: a jammed grinding plate causing a humming sound without rotation (try the reset hex wrench on the bottom, but if it persists, we’re here to help); reset button that won’t stay engaged; leaks around the sink flange or discharge outlet; worn splash guards; and disposals running but failing to grind properly due to worn parts.
Before recommending replacement, we carefully diagnose your disposal. Many problems are small repairs that cost less than a new unit. If a replacement is more sensible, we’ll be upfront about costs and options. We service all leading brands like InSinkErator, Waste King, GE, KitchenAid, and more.
Garbage Disposal Replacement
Units over 10 years old, or those leaking from the housing or with burnt-out motors, usually need replacing. We remove the old disposal, check the sink’s drain and mounting hardware for corrosion, swap out any damaged parts, and fit the new unit. We handle dishwasher connections if applicable and ensure the electrical setup is safe and functional before we finish.
Horsepower options vary: 1/2 HP suits most homes, 3/4 HP works better for busier kitchens and cuts down on jams, and 1 HP is great for larger families or heavy usage, also running quieter. We’ll talk through your needs and preferences at the time of service.
Installing a New Garbage Disposal
Adding a disposal where none existed requires more work—cutting and prepping the sink drain to fit the mounting flange, installing electrical outlets or switches (which typically means working with an electrician), hooking up dishwasher drains if needed, and routing the discharge line correctly. We handle the plumbing side and advise you if electrical upgrades are necessary before starting.
Clearing Disposal-Related Drain Clogs
If your kitchen drain slows or backs up when running the disposal, the clog might be downstream in the P-trap or drain line. Grease, food scraps, and soap buildup often cause blockages here. We use professional snaking tools to clear these clogs and inspect the P-trap and dishwasher drain connection during service. If needed, we’ll fix issues with the disposal and drain together.
Signs Your Garbage Disposal Needs Attention
- Unit hums but blades don’t spin (likely jammed)
- Nothing happens when switched on (no power)
- Grinding, screeching, or rattling noises during operation
- Water leaking from the bottom housing
- Leaks around sink flange or discharge pipe
- Slow draining or backups in kitchen sink
- Reset button keeps tripping
- Persistent foul odors after cleaning attempts
- Disposal is older than 10 years
Items You Should Never Put in a Garbage Disposal
- Grease, fat, or cooking oil — solidifies in pipes and causes clogs
- Stringy/fibrous foods — celery stalks, corn husks, onion skins, artichokes
- Large amounts of starches — pasta, rice, potato skins that swell
- Bones and pits — can damage blades or motor
- Eggshells — membranes stick to parts and reduce efficiency
- Coffee grounds in bulk — buildup leads to drainage problems
- Always run cold water while grinding and for at least 15 seconds afterward
Costs vary depending on whether you need a repair, replacement, or new installation; the brand and horsepower of your disposal; any required electrical or plumbing work; and if drain cleaning is necessary. Repairs typically range from $75 to $200, while replacement labor costs often fall between $150 and $350. Disposal units come in a variety of price points. Contact us at 224-348-8362 for a precise quote before we begin.
Garbage Disposal FAQs
Not necessarily broken. A humming sound usually means the motor is powered but the grinding plate is stuck. First thing, switch off power. Then use the hex wrench tool underneath to manually turn the grinding plate back and forth. Use tongs or pliers—never your hand—to clear any debris inside. If this doesn’t get it working or the problem keeps happening, give us a call at 224-348-8362.
If it’s younger than 5 or 6 years and the issue is repairable, like a jam or leak, fixing it usually makes sense. But if the unit is over 10 years old, has a burnt-out motor, or is leaking from the main housing, replacing it is typically more cost-effective. We’ll provide options with pricing so you can make the best choice.
Most disposals last between 8 and 15 years. Units that see heavy use or frequently grind fibrous or starchy foods tend to wear out sooner. Popular brands in our area like InSinkErator and Waste King offer reliable models that come in a range of sizes and price points.
Yes, we can install disposals in most kitchen sinks that currently don’t have one. This involves modifying the drain opening for the mounting flange and ensuring you have the necessary electrical outlet or switch nearby (usually handled by an electrician). We take care of all plumbing connections and provide a detailed assessment before beginning. This upgrade is common with kitchen remodels.