A garbage disposal is a useful appliance that reduces the amount of food waste that goes to landfills. However, a malfunctioning disposal can cause problems that are difficult to fix on your own.

If your disposal is making funny smells or humming noises, it’s time to call a plumber. Here are a few reasons why.

Safety

Garbage disposals are electrically powered and located under the sink where there’s water present, making them risky appliances to work on without a plumber. Professionals are trained to safely handle plumbing and electrical tasks, adhering to all relevant codes and standards. Even a minor mistake during a DIY repair could result in serious injuries or fire hazards.

Even with the best garbage disposal care, there are still issues that can arise. For example, frequent clogging can indicate dull blades or a faulty motor. If the reset button doesn’t fix the issue, it may be time to call a plumber.

A skilled plumber can quickly diagnose and resolve problems ranging from an overly full disposal to a leaky seal. They can also provide tips on how to best use your disposal, preventing future clogs and damage. They can even advise on whether a replacement is in order.

Saves Time

There’s a lot that can go wrong with a garbage disposal, so if you can’t fix it on your own or aren’t comfortable trying, it’s best to let the pros handle it. Plumbers have the tools and knowledge necessary to quickly diagnose issues, so they can fix them properly in a shorter amount of time.

Plumbing experts understand how the entire sink system works, so they can identify any other problems that may be contributing to your disposal’s malfunction. For example, a clogged disposal might be caused by a bigger issue like an overflowing drain pipe or a broken septic tank system.

Attempting DIY repairs could lead to further damage or safety hazards. Even a minor slip-up can cause significant leaks under the sink or elsewhere in your home, so it’s always best to call a plumber for any kind of repairs or installation. They can make sure the job is done correctly and to code, protecting you from future headaches.

Saves Money

Garbage disposals are complicated appliances, and a DIY repair can lead to costly mistakes. For example, if you disconnect the power wrongly or apply too much force to unjam the unit, it could harm internal components and cause leaks under the sink.

A plumber can fix garbage disposal issues quickly and accurately, saving you money

in the long run. They also offer maintenance tips to help you keep your disposal running well for years to come.

Some disposal repairs cost as little as $60, including parts and labor. However, if your disposal is nearing the end of its lifespan or is causing frequent clogs, it may be worth replacing it altogether. A plumber can assess your disposal’s performance and recommend a replacement that fits your needs and budget. Attempting to install a new disposal without a plumber can void your warranty and create legal or financial headaches in the future. A licensed plumber knows how to handle both plumbing and electrical work, following safety protocols to ensure a complication-free installation.

Saves You from Mistakes

While it’s not always possible to avoid mistakes when attempting DIY repairs, hiring a plumber to work on your garbage disposal prevents them from happening in the first place. For example, if you attempt to unjam your disposal yourself but apply too much force or use the wrong tool, you can damage internal components and make the problem worse. Professional plumbers have the proper tools to safely disassemble and reassemble your unit without causing any further damage, ensuring your disposal functions properly again.

Plumbing professionals know how to accurately diagnose problems, which saves you money in the long run. For example, if your disposal repeatedly fails to turn on it could indicate an electrical problem rather than a simple clog.

In addition to electrical connections, most modern garbage disposal installations require plumbing connections as well. Professional plumbers are trained to handle both aspects of the installation in a single appointment, saving you time and money on additional service calls. For help with locating a professional plumber, sites like https://www.fixitrightplumbing.com.au/blocked-drains-melbourne/ have experienced plumbing professionals to assist.