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When Should I Replace My Garbage Disposal?


As we’ve mentioned in our previous blogs, the garbage disposal is a great appliance to have in your kitchen, which is why it is important maintain. However, you will eventually need to get a replacement because of old age, lack of maintenance etc. Still, it’s hard to gauge whether the time for a new garbage disposal is right or not. Plus, you have to take into account other factors such as your current budget, the type of disposal you want, how soon you need it, etc. To help you out, the pros at Mattioni have prepared a guide on when you should replace your trusted garbage disposal.

1. Your Disposal is Old

Your garbage disposal should last for 8 to 15 years, though this depends on whether it’s an older model or not, if it has been used frequently, properly and if it has been maintained well. If your disposal is past the age of 15, you might want to consider looking into new options. Of course, disposals that are old can still work well—so age isn’t the only factor to take into account when considering the replacement of your garbage disposal.

2. Frequent and Inexplicable Clogs

A clog once or twice is inevitable—even the best appliances get clogged and have issues sometimes. However, if you notice frequent clogging in your disposal, no matter how small the food scraps you let down the drain, the disposal might be malfunctioning. You might want to consider getting a more durable and higher-capacity model.

3. Frequent Odors

If you clean your garbage disposal often by using a baking soda, vinegar and hot water mixture and sometimes grind lemon peels, there is no reason to expect odors. However, if odors continue to persist no matter how much you clean your disposal, there could be a deeper issue. You might just need to contact a plumber who can take your appliance apart and clean it thoroughly. But if odors go away then come back frequently, you might need a newer model.

4. If You Have to Reset it Often

In the event of a major clog, the disposal motor overheating, or propellers not grinding, a reset button comes in handy. It’s the red button at the very bottom of the disposal — and sometimes turning the disposal off and resetting it is all it takes to fix a problem. However, if you find yourself resetting your disposal often, you might be dealing with an aging disposal reaching the end of its life.

Still not sure when you should replace your garbage disposal? Get in touch with the pros at Mattioni today! Call us at 610-400-8510 or schedule a service with us on our website. Our team of experts will be more than happy to assist you with not only your garbage disposal but any other plumbing, heating or air conditioning appliance in your home. With Mattioni, you are guaranteed courteous, knowledgeable and professional service!

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