Garbage Disposal Replacement in Avondale, Arizona: A Homeowner’s Guide

Ah, the garbage disposal. That trusty kitchen appliance that makes quick work of food scraps and keeps your sink smelling fresh. But like any appliance, garbage disposals have a lifespan. If yours is starting to show its age (think strange noises, leaks, or frequent jams), it might be time for a replacement.

This guide is for Avondale homeowners facing a garbage disposal replacement. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right unit to installation tips and even some preventative maintenance to keep your new disposal running smoothly.

When you need it done right the first time, call Bleuwave Plumbing, 480-863-5915.

Signs Your Garbage Disposal Needs Replacing

Before you rush to replace your disposal, make sure it’s truly necessary. Here are some telltale signs:

• Age: The average lifespan of a garbage disposal is around 10 years. If yours is approaching or exceeding that age, it might be nearing the end of its life.
• Frequent Jams: If you’re constantly having to reach for the reset button or Allen wrench to unclog your disposal, it’s a sign of wear and tear.
• Leaks:  Water leaking from the disposal can indicate a cracked housing or worn-out seals.
• Strange Noises:  Unusual grinding, humming, or rattling sounds can signal a problem with the motor or internal components.
• Slow Draining:  If your sink drains slowly even when the disposal isn’t running, it could be a sign of a clogged or malfunctioning disposal.
• Unpleasant Odors:  Persistent bad smells from your sink, even after cleaning, can indicate a buildup of food debris in the disposal.

Contact Bleuwave Plumbing today, just a phone call away! Call Bleuwave Plumbing at (480) 863-5915, open 24 hours.

Choosing the Right Garbage Disposal for Your Avondale Home

If you’ve determined that a replacement is necessary, the next step is choosing the right garbage disposal for your needs. Here are some key factors to consider:

-Power: Garbage disposals are measured in horsepower (HP).
-1/3 HP: Suitable for light use and small households.
-1/2 HP: A good choice for most homes, offering a balance of power and affordability.
-3/4 HP or higher: Ideal for larger households or those who frequently dispose of tough food scraps.

Feed Type:

Continuous Feed: Allows you to continuously feed food scraps into the disposal while it’s running. This is the most common type.
Batch Feed: Requires you to load food scraps into the disposal chamber and then use a stopper to activate it. This can be safer but less convenient.
Noise Level: Consider how much noise the disposal makes, especially if your kitchen is close to living areas. Look for models with sound insulation or vibration-reducing features.
Features: Some disposals offer additional features like:
Auto-reverse: Helps prevent jams.
Stainless steel grinding components: More durable and resistant to corrosion.
Anti-microbial protection: Helps reduce odors.
Budget: Garbage disposals can range in price from around $100 to over $500. Set a budget before you start shopping.

Garbage Disposal Installation in Avondale

While some handy homeowners might be comfortable installing a garbage disposal themselves, it’s often recommended to hire a qualified plumber, especially if you’re not familiar with plumbing work. Here’s why:

Safety: Working with electrical wiring and plumbing connections can be hazardous if you’re not experienced.
Code Compliance: A licensed plumber will ensure that the installation meets local plumbing codes.
Warranty: Some manufacturers require professional installation to maintain the warranty.

If you choose to hire a plumber, be sure to get quotes from several reputable companies in Avondale. Ask about their experience with garbage disposal installations and check their online reviews.

DIY Installation Tips (If You’re Experienced)

If you’re confident in your DIY skills and decide to install the disposal yourself, here are some basic steps:

1. Turn off power and water: Disconnect the power to the disposal at the circuit breaker and turn off the water supply under the sink.
2. Remove the old disposal: Disconnect the plumbing and electrical connections from the old disposal and carefully remove it from the sink flange.
3. Install the new disposal: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the new disposal, connecting the plumbing and electrical connections securely.
4. Test the disposal: Turn the power and water back on and test the disposal to make sure it’s working properly.

Preventative Maintenance

To keep your new garbage disposal running smoothly and extend its lifespan, follow these maintenance tips:

• Run cold water:  Always run cold water while the disposal is operating. This helps flush away food scraps and keeps the motor cool.
• Avoid overloading:  Don’t overload the disposal with large amounts of food scraps at once. Feed them in gradually.
• Grind regularly:  Run the disposal regularly, even if you haven’t used it recently, to prevent rust and buildup.
• Avoid certain foods:  Don’t put these items down the disposal:
• Fibrous foods:  Celery, corn husks, onion skins
• Starchy foods:  Potato peels, pasta, rice
• Grease and oil:  These can solidify and clog the disposal.
• Bones:  These can damage the blades.
• Non-food items:  Glass, metal, plastic, etc.
• Clean regularly:  Clean the disposal periodically with baking soda and vinegar or a commercial disposal cleaner to remove odors and buildup.

Garbage Disposal Statistics

Prevalence:  Around 50% of U.S. homes have garbage disposals.
Water usage:  Garbage disposals use an average of 1 gallon of water per person per day.
Environmental impact:  While garbage disposals can help reduce food waste in landfills, they can also contribute to water pollution if not used properly.

Replacing a garbage disposal in your Avondale home can be a straightforward process, whether you choose to hire a professional or tackle the installation yourself. By choosing the right unit, following proper installation procedures, and practicing preventative maintenance, you can enjoy the convenience and efficiency of a new garbage disposal for years to come.

When you need it done right the first time, call Bleuwave Plumbing, 480-863-5915 or contact us online.