Garbage Disposal Installation & Repairs in Lemont, IL
A malfunctioning garbage disposal is a real hassle—especially when you’re ready to clean up dinner leftovers and your sink just won’t drain. Whether it’s stuck, dripping from underneath, won’t power up, or sounds like something’s rattling inside, we typically get it fixed the same day you call.
When you dial us at 331-246-0385, expect straightforward advice on whether it’s better to repair or replace your unit. Factors like the disposal’s age, the problem type, and repair costs all come into play. For instance, an older disposal with a burnt-out motor usually isn’t worth fixing, while a newer one that’s jammed can often be cleared quickly. We’ll give you a firm price upfront and explain your options.
If you suspect a clog downstream of the disposal, we also offer expert drain cleaning to clear blockages in your P-trap or drain lines. Planning a kitchen update? Check out our kitchen remodeling and faucet and fixture installation services to complement your new disposal.
What We Offer for Garbage Disposal Services
Garbage Disposal Repairs
We fix common issues like a stuck grinding plate (you might hear a hum but nothing spins—try the hex wrench under the unit first; if that doesn’t help or it jams often, call us), resets that won’t stay engaged, leaks at the sink flange or discharge, worn splash guards, and disposals that run but don’t grind food properly.
Before recommending a replacement, we diagnose the root cause. Many problems are affordable fixes. If repair doesn’t make sense because the unit is old or damaged beyond repair, we’ll explain why and present replacement options with transparent pricing. We work with all big brands, including InSinkErator, Waste King (Moen), GE, KitchenAid, and more.
Garbage Disposal Replacement
If your disposal is more than 10 years old, leaking through the housing (not just fittings), or has a burnt motor, a replacement is usually the best route. We remove the old unit, inspect and replace any corroded mounting parts, reconnect the dishwasher line if you have one, ensure your electrical setup is safe (hardwired or plugged in), and test the new disposal thoroughly before we leave.
When choosing power levels, 1/2 HP is sufficient for most homes. For busier households or heavier kitchen use, 3/4 HP reduces jams and offers smoother operation. The 1 HP units are great for big families or frequent use, and they tend to run quieter since they aren’t pushed as hard. We’ll walk you through all options during service.
Installing New Garbage Disposals
Adding a disposal where none existed before takes more work than a swap-out. We’ll modify your sink drain to fit the mounting ring, ensure there’s proper electrical wiring or help coordinate an electrician, connect the dishwasher drain if applicable, and route the disposal’s output correctly. We handle all plumbing details and advise you upfront on any extra electrical work needed.
Clearing Disposal-Related Drain Clogs
If your kitchen sink drains slowly or backs up when the disposal runs, the problem might be further down the drain. Grease and food debris often build up in the P-trap or drain lines. We use professional drain snakes and hydro jetting techniques to clear these blockages, while inspecting the trap and dishwasher connection for any issues. If both your disposal and drain need work, we tackle everything in one visit.
Warning Signs Your Garbage Disposal Needs Attention
- It hums but doesn’t grind (likely jammed)
- No sound or movement when switched on
- Unusual noises like grinding, screeching, or rattling
- Leaks coming from underneath the unit (housing)
- Water leaking at the sink flange or discharge pipe
- Kitchen sink draining very slowly or backing up
- Reset button tripping repeatedly
- Lingering odors that don’t go away with cleaning
- Unit is over 10 years old
Items to Avoid Putting in Your Disposal
- Grease, oil, or fats — they harden and clog drains
- Stringy or fibrous foods — celery, corn husks, onion skins, artichokes
- Bulk starchy foods — pasta, rice, potato peelings
- Bones and stone fruit pits — can damage blades
- Eggshells — membranes can wrap around components
- Coffee grounds in large amounts — cause buildup in pipes
- Always run cold water while the disposal is running and for at least 15 seconds after
Frequently Asked Questions About Garbage Disposals
Usually, that humming means the disposal’s motor is powered but the impeller is stuck. First, turn off the switch. Locate the hex hole underneath and use the Allen wrench (often stored on the side) to manually turn the grinding plate back and forth. Don’t stick your hand down the drain; use tongs or pliers to remove any debris blocking the blades. If it keeps humming or won’t reset, give us a call at 331-246-0385.
If your disposal is under 5 or 6 years old and the issue is repairable—like a jam or leak—it usually pays to fix it. But if it’s over a decade old, has a burned-out motor, or leaks from the housing itself, replacing it often makes more sense. We’ll provide honest advice and pricing to help you choose.
On average, disposals last between 8 and 15 years depending on usage and care. Heavy use with fibrous or starchy food tends to wear them out faster. Popular brands like InSinkErator and Waste King offer models that vary in durability and price.
Yes, most kitchen sinks can be outfitted with a disposal. This involves adjusting the sink drain for the mounting ring and ensuring you have the proper electrical connection—usually requiring an electrician. We handle the plumbing installation and provide a detailed quote covering any electrical work needed. Many Lemont homeowners add disposals during kitchen remodels.