Who Fixes Garbage Disposals? Here’s Who to Call
Hire the right pro for your ailing your disposal
When it comes to who fixes garbage disposals, the answer will depend on what kind of problem your garbage disposal is experiencing. A plumber would be the person to call if your disposal is leaking. However, you’re better off hiring an appliance repair technician or electrician if it’s stuck or not starting. Here’s who to call and when so you have a plan the next time your garbage disposal goes on the fritz.
Benefits of Hiring a Plumber to Fix a Garbage Disposal
When in doubt, a local plumber is the first person you should call regarding any issues with your garbage disposal. For starters, they can fix everything from leaks to clogs, which are the root of a lot of garbage disposal problems. And even if they aren’t equipped to resolve the matter, they’ll be able to tell you what’s wrong and who you should call next—as well as if it’s better to repair or replace your garbage disposal.
Can I Repair a Garbage Disposal On My Own?
Certain issues can be repaired with quick and easy DIY fixes, like eliminating odors using household staples like vinegar and baking soda. While it’s technically possible to make larger repairs—like fixing a leak, unclogging, or changing a garbage disposal part—these require in-depth plumbing knowledge and proper equipment. Mess up just one thing, and you could have much more expensive damage on your hands.
Similarly, any repairs that involve electricity—like a disposal that won’t start because of a bad wire—can be highly risky for the average homeowner and should always be left to a licensed electrician.
Can I Hire an Electrician to Fix My Garbage Disposal?
You should hire a local electrician if your garbage disposal’s problem is related to electricity. If it’s not starting up at all, you can still have your plumber take a look, but odds are they’ll tell you to call an electrician to address the problem. Most plumbers don’t have the extensive electrical knowledge necessary to make electrical repairs on home appliances.
Can I Hire an Appliance Repair Technician to Fix My Garbage Disposal?
You should call an appliance repair technician near you the next time your garbage disposal is making a funny noise or not working quite as quickly as usual. They are fully equipped to repair small damage and make part replacements as necessary. However, any issue that extends further into your plumbing—say, a broken pipe for instance—will need to be attended to by a plumber.
How Do Appliance Repair Pros Fix Garbage Disposals?
The pros fix garbage disposals in a number of different ways because each issue needs individualized treatment. Patching up a leak and unblocking a clog are two separate fixes that can’t be done in the same way.
For instance, a plumber may tighten loose parts with a wrench to stop your garbage disposal from leaking from the bottom—while they’ll likely need to replace your disposal’s dull blades if it won’t stop getting clogged. When in doubt, ask the pro what the project will involve to get a better picture and an accurate repair quote.