A garbage disposal is a handy kitchen appliance that many of us take for granted—that is, until it stops working.

When your garbage disposal starts making strange noises or simply refuses to turn on, it can be a nightmare.

Fortunately, most disposals will last for years with proper care and maintenance.

In this blog post, we'll discuss how long garbage disposal typically lasts and what you can do to extend its lifespan.

How long does a garbage disposal last?

The average lifespan of garbage disposal is as long as 15 years. However, this can vary depending on the model and quality of the disposal, as well as how often it is used and how well it is maintained.

For example, higher-end disposal that is used sparingly may last longer than a budget model that is used daily.

Is your garbage disposal failing? Check out our emergency services

Signs of a Failing Garbage Disposal

Like all machines, a garbage disposal will suffer wear and tear over time and may eventually need to be replaced.

Here are six signs that indicate your garbage disposal is failing and needs to be replaced.

1. Abnormal Noises

Well-functioning garbage disposal should operate relatively quietly. If your unit starts making grinding, rattling, or buzzing noises, it may be a sign that the motor or bearings are damaged and need to be replaced.

2. Frequent Resets

If you find yourself having to constantly reset your garbage disposal, it may be a sign that the unit is overloaded and needs to be replaced.

3. Inexplicable Clogs

If your garbage disposal suddenly starts clogging up for no apparent reason, it could mean that the blades are dull and need to be replaced.

4. No Power

If your garbage disposal suddenly stops working altogether, it may be a sign that the motor has burned out and needs to be replaced.

5. Persistent Odors

If you notice a foul smell coming from your garbage disposal, it could be a sign that food particles have become trapped in the unit and are starting to rot. This is not only unpleasant, but it can also attract pests into your home.

6. Planned Renovation

If you are planning a kitchen renovation, it may be a good time to replace your old garbage disposal with a new one.

This way you can avoid any unnecessary repairs down the road.

Garbage disposal Maintenance Tips

Maintaining your garbage disposal is important for keeping it in good working condition and preventing problems.

With proper care and maintenance, your disposal could last even longer.

Here are a few tips to help extend the life of your garbage disposal:

• Run cold water while using the disposal. This helps solidify grease and oils, which can clog the blades.
• Avoid putting hard-to-grind items like bones or coffee grounds down the disposal.
• Don't overload the disposal—if you need to dispose of large amounts of food waste, do it in batches.
• Clean the blades regularly with vinegar or bactericidal soap. This helps prevent the build-up of bacteria and other contaminants.
• If your garbage disposal starts making strange noises, don't ignore it! Strange noises are often an indication that something is wrong and should be checked out by a professional.

By following these simple tips, you can help to keep your garbage disposal in good working condition for years to come.

Call a Professional Somerville Plumber for Your Garbage Disposal Repair

If you're having trouble with your garbage disposal, it's important to call a professional Somerville plumber for repairs.

Trying to fix the problem yourself could result in further damage, and it's always best to leave plumbing repairs to the experts.

A professional plumber will be able to quickly diagnose the problem and make the necessary repairs.

They'll also be able to advise you on how to avoid future problems with your garbage disposal.

Conclusion

With proper care and maintenance, a garbage disposal can last for many years. However, there are a few things that can shorten its lifespan.

If you use your garbage disposal regularly or dispose of some types of food waste, such as bones or coffee grounds, it will wear out more quickly.

Be sure to properly care for and maintain your garbage disposal to help extend its lifespan!