When to replace vs. repair your garbage disposal

Your garbage disposal is one of those kitchen appliances you don’t think much about—until it stops working. A jammed, leaking, or completely dead disposal can be a real headache, leaving you wondering whether to try fixing it or just replace it altogether.

The good news is, not every issue means you need a brand-new disposal. Some problems are quick and easy to fix, while others are signs that it’s time for an upgrade. In this guide, we’ll break down the common issues, when a repair makes sense, and when you’re better off replacing your unit.

The tips in this article might not match your exact model. We aim to give useful advice for all sorts of DIY appliance fixes, but different models can have their quirks—like unique troubleshooting steps, error codes, or parts that need swapping. For the most accurate info, it’s best to check out the manufacturer’s guide for your specific appliance. And if you’re stumped, feel free to reach out to us with any questions.

When to repair your garbage disposal

Not every garbage disposal problem means you need a brand-new unit. In many cases, a simple repair can get it working like new again. Here are some situations where repairing your disposal is the better option.

Your disposal is less than 5–7 years old

• Most garbage disposals last around 8–15 years, depending on usage and maintenance.
• If your unit is still within this range and isn’t having frequent issues, a repair is likely worth it.

The issue is minor

• Jams and clogs: If the unit hums but doesn’t grind, it may just need to be manually freed using an Allen wrench.
• A tripped reset button: If your disposal suddenly stops working, pressing the red reset button underneath can often solve the problem.
• A loose connection: Check for disconnected power cords or loose wiring (turn off the power first!).

The leak is coming from a loose connection or worn gasket

• If the leak is at the sink flange or drainpipe, tightening connections or replacing a worn gasket can fix the problem.
• If the leak is from the bottom of the unit, it’s likely an internal seal failure, which usually means replacement is a better option.

The blades are dull, but the motor still runs

• If the disposal isn’t grinding food well but still runs, cleaning the blades with ice and rock salt or replacing them may solve the issue.
• Some disposals allow blade sharpening or replacement, while others may require a new unit if they wear down too much.

The motor still works, but the unit struggles occasionally

• If the disposal sometimes slows down or overheats but otherwise functions, it could be due to food buildup or a temporary overload.
• Try running ice cubes through it to clean the blades and clearing out any blockages in the drain.

Common problems and quick fixes

Before you decide whether to repair or replace your garbage disposal, it’s important to understand the common issues that can happen. Some problems have simple DIY fixes, while others may be a sign of bigger trouble. Here are the most frequent disposal problems and what you can do to fix them.

Jams and clogs

• The disposal hums but doesn’t grind.
• Water drains slowly or not at all.
• You hear a clicking or grinding noise but nothing is moving.

Quick fixes:

• Reset the unit: First, turn off the disposal and press the red reset button on the bottom. Then, turn it back on and test it.
• Manually free the jam: Use a hex key (Allen wrench) in the bottom slot of the unit to manually turn the blades and loosen any stuck debris.
• Check for blockages: Shine a flashlight inside and use tongs or pliers (never your hand!) to remove any trapped food or foreign objects.

Humming but not grinding

• The motor hums but the blades don’t move.
• The reset button pops out repeatedly.

Quick fixes:

• Check for jams: Follow the steps above to manually free any stuck debris.
• Test the motor: If nothing is jammed, the motor might be burned out. In this case, replacing the unit is usually the best option.

Leaks

• Water drips under the sink near the disposal.
• You notice a small puddle forming under the unit.

Quick fixes:

• Tighten connections: If the leak is coming from where the disposal connects to the sink or drainpipe, try tightening the mounting bolts and pipe connections.
• Replace worn-out seals: If water is leaking from the bottom of the unit, the internal seal may be worn out—this usually means it’s time for a replacement.

Slow draining

• Water pools in the sink and drains slowly.
• You hear gurgling sounds when the disposal runs.

Quick fixes:

• Clear out buildup: Pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain, let it sit for a few minutes, then flush with hot water.
• Use a plunger: If the clog is deeper in the drain, try using a sink plunger to clear it.
• Check the trap: Remove and clean the P-trap (the curved pipe under the sink) to remove any food buildup.

Foul odors

• A persistent bad smell coming from the disposal.
• Food particles seem stuck even after running water.

Quick fixes:

• Flush with ice and salt: Grind a few ice cubes and a handful of salt to help break down grease and stuck-on debris.
• Use citrus peels: Toss in lemon or orange peels for a fresh scent and mild cleaning action.
• Deep clean with baking soda and vinegar: Let the mixture sit for a few minutes, then rinse with hot water.

Need more detailed repair tips? Swing by our repair help section.

When to replace your garbage disposal

Sometimes, a garbage disposal is beyond saving, and replacing it is the better (or only) option. Here are the key signs that it’s time to upgrade to a new unit.

Your disposal is 7–10+ years old

• The average lifespan of a garbage disposal is 8–15 years, depending on the quality and how well it’s maintained.
• If your disposal is over 7 years old and is experiencing frequent issues, a replacement is likely more cost-effective than repeated repairs.

The motor is completely dead

• If you’ve tried pressing the reset button, checking the breaker, and testing for power, but the unit still doesn’t turn on, the motor may have burned out.
• A burned-out motor isn’t repairable, so replacing the disposal is your only option.

It frequently clogs, even with proper use

• If your disposal clogs or jams regularly, even when you’re only putting in soft food waste, the blades may be too worn or the motor may be struggling.
• Older units with lower horsepower (⅓ HP or ½ HP) can struggle in busy households, and upgrading to a more powerful unit (¾ HP or 1 HP) can help.

There’s a crack in the disposal unit

• If you see water leaking from the bottom of the disposal and there’s a visible crack in the housing, it’s time for a new unit.
• Internal cracks can’t be repaired, and they can lead to bigger leaks and water damage under your sink.

It’s making loud, unusual noises

• If you hear grinding, rattling, or metal-on-metal sounds, the blades or impellers may be misaligned or broken.
• If the noise is due to worn-out internal parts, repairs are usually not worth the cost—replacement is the better option.

It vibrates excessively or moves while running

• If your disposal shakes violently or seems loose, it could mean the mounting hardware is failing.
• While some loose mounts can be tightened, a unit that vibrates excessively may have internal imbalances, which can’t be repaired.

You want an upgrade

Even if your old disposal still works, upgrading can be a good idea if:

• You want a quieter model with noise reduction.
• Your current disposal doesn’t grind well, and you need a more powerful unit.
• You want a batch-feed disposal for extra safety.
• You have a septic system and need a septic-safe model.

If your disposal is showing any of these signs, replacing it will save you time, money, and frustration in the long run.

Wrapping up

Deciding to repair or replace your garbage disposal doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By looking at how bad the issue is, how old your unit is, and the costs involved, you can make the choice that’s right for you and your wallet.

We’re here to help you on your DIY journey. Visit AppliancePartsPros.com for quality parts, helpful resources, and expert advice. Stay connected with us on Facebook and Twitter for more tips and updates.

Got questions or need a hand? Don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we’ll keep your appliances humming along!