Garbage Disposal Repair and Installation Services in Hickory Hills, IL
A malfunctioning garbage disposal can turn into a hassle fast—especially after a long day when you have no way to clear the sink. Whether it’s stuck, dripping, dead on start-up, or grinding unusually loud, we typically get it sorted out the same day you call.
Ring us at 708-729-5614, and we'll provide a straightforward diagnosis—does it make sense to fix it or swap it out? The decision generally hinges on the disposal's age, the issue at hand, and repair costs versus replacement. For example, a disposal over a decade old with a burnt motor usually calls for a new unit. Meanwhile, a fairly new one stuck on debris might just need a quick unjam. You’ll get a clear estimate from us before any work begins.
We also tackle clogs in drains caused by disposals, such as backups in the P-trap or drain line. Sometimes the disposal is fine, but the pipe it's draining into is clogged. If you’re updating your kitchen, check out our kitchen remodeling and fixture installation services for a complete refresh.
Our Garbage Disposal Services
Garbage Disposal Repairs
We fix the usual suspects: disposals humming but stuck (try using the hex wrench on the bottom, but if it doesn’t free up or jams return, call us); reset buttons that won’t hold; leaks around the sink flange or discharge pipes; worn splash guards; and disposals that power on but don’t grind effectively due to worn parts.
Before suggesting a replacement, we perform a thorough inspection. Many issues are repairable at a reasonable cost. If your disposal is too old or damaged, we’ll be upfront about replacement options and pricing. We service all leading brands, including InSinkErator, Waste King, GE, KitchenAid, and more.
Garbage Disposal Replacement
If your disposal is over 10 years old, leaking from the unit itself, or has a motor failure, replacing it is often the better investment. We’ll remove the old equipment, inspect your sink’s drain opening and mounting system, replace any rusty hardware, and fit the new disposal. We also reconnect the dishwasher drain if you have one, check electrical wiring (hardwired or plug-in), and test functionality before we leave.
Regarding motor size: 1/2 HP is standard for average kitchens. 3/4 HP offers smoother operation and fewer jams if you run your disposal often. 1 HP models suit busy households and tend to operate more quietly since the motor runs easily. If noise is a factor—common in open-plan kitchens—we can recommend quieter options with sound insulation. We’ll help you pick the right one on site.
New Garbage Disposal Installations
Adding a disposal where one hasn't been before requires more work: modifying the sink flange to fit the mounting assembly, arranging for an electrical outlet or switch nearby (usually an electrician’s role, but we coordinate), connecting the dishwasher drain if needed, and making sure the disposal drains efficiently into your pipes. We manage every plumbing step and let you know if electrical upgrades are necessary before starting.
Troubleshooting Disposal-Related Drain Clogs
If your kitchen drain is slow or backs up when running the disposal, the clog may be in the pipe below rather than the disposal itself. Build-up of grease, food scraps, and soap in the P-trap or drain line is common. We use professional snaking equipment to clear blockages and inspect the dishwasher drain connection while we're at it. If the disposal and drain both need attention, we tackle both issues together.
Warning Signs Your Garbage Disposal Needs Attention
- The unit hums but doesn’t grind (likely jammed)
- No sound or movement when turned on
- Strange grinding, screeching, or rattling noises
- Leaks from the unit’s base (housing)
- Leaks around the sink flange or discharge pipe
- Kitchen sink draining slowly or backing up
- Reset button trips repeatedly
- Persistent foul smells despite cleaning
- Disposal is over 10 years old
Items to Keep Out of Your Garbage Disposal
- Grease, oils, and fats — they harden and cause blockages
- Stringy vegetables — celery, corn husks, onion skins, artichokes
- Bulk starchy foods — pasta, rice, potato skins
- Bones and fruit pits — can damage blades and motor
- Eggshells — membranes can wrap and jam parts
- Large amounts of coffee grounds — can create sludge in pipes
- Always run cold water while grinding and for at least 15 seconds afterward
Garbage Disposal Frequently Asked Questions
Not always broken. That humming sound usually means the grinding plate is stuck. First, turn off the unit. Then, find the hex hole on the bottom and use an Allen wrench (often included with the unit) to gently rotate the plate back and forth to clear the jam. Use tongs to remove foreign objects—never your hands. If that doesn’t work or it jams again, give us a call at 708-729-5614.
If your disposal is less than 5 or 6 years old and has a specific issue like a jam or leak, a repair usually makes sense. But if the unit is more than 10 years old, has a burned motor, or leaks from the housing, replacement is generally the smarter choice. We’ll provide honest options with pricing so you can choose what suits you best.
They typically last between 8 and 15 years depending on usage, brand, and care. Disposals that handle lots of tough, fibrous, or starchy foods or that jam frequently tend to wear out closer to 8 years. InSinkErator and Waste King are popular brands known for reliability at various price levels.
Yes, most sinks can be outfitted with a disposal. This involves modifying the drain flange, adding electrical wiring or an outlet (typically handled by an electrician), and connecting any dishwasher drain lines. We handle all plumbing parts and let you know what electrical work is needed during our assessment. This is a frequent upgrade during kitchen remodels.