A reliable garbage disposal unit can make kitchen cleanup faster, easier, and far less messy. Upgrading an old unit or installing a new one with the right features and capacity ensures it performs efficiently for years to come.
But a garbage disposal is more than just a convenience; it’s also an eco-friendly choice. Not only does it use minimal water and electricity, but it also helps reduce the amount of food waste sent to landfills, which in turn reduces harmful methane gas emissions.
When you run your disposal, food scraps are ground into tiny particles, making them easier to treat at your local water plant. In many cases, those recycled food particles become fertilizer and clean water. Since roughly 70% of the waste you put into your disposal is water, you’re returning food waste to its natural form while protecting the environment.
How Long Do Garbage Disposals Last?
On average, a garbage disposal lasts approximately 12 years, although its actual lifespan can vary depending on the model, frequency of use, and level of maintenance it receives.
● Regular maintenance and cleaning can help a disposal unit last longer than the average lifespan.
● Good usage habits can prevent breakdowns and keep disposal blades in top condition. These habits include avoiding harmful food items, running water while the unit is in operation, and regularly cleaning the unit.
● Bad habits, such as sending grease, fibrous foods, potato peels, or starchy food items down the sink’s drain, can lead to clogs, motor jams, and early failure.
By understanding the factors that affect longevity, you can make sure your unit performs efficiently for years to come.
Factors That Affect the Lifespan of a Garbage Disposal
Several factors influence the life of a garbage disposal, from the unit’s design to its daily usage. Understanding these variables can help you make informed choices that extend your disposal’s average lifespan and prevent premature breakdowns. By paying attention to quality, usage habits, and maintenance, you can get the most value out of your investment.
Quality of the Garbage Disposal
Not all units are created equal. Higher-quality models, especially those built with stainless steel disposal blades and heavy-duty motors, tend to last longer than budget options. If you’re shopping for the best garbage disposal, investing in a durable, higher-end unit can be more cost-effective over time, as it reduces the need for frequent replacements.
Frequency of Use
The more you use your disposal, the more wear the motor and blades experience. If you run it multiple times a day, expect the lifespan to be shorter than that of someone who uses it a few times a week. On the other hand, occasional use, paired with proper maintenance, may help your garbage disposal last longer.
What NOT to Put in a Garbage Disposal
Confusion about what belongs in the disposal can lead to arguments and costly repairs. While some food waste is fine, other food items can cause buildup, clogs, and mechanical damage.
Avoid sending these down your sink’s drain:
● Eggshells
● Grease or oil
● Pasta or rice (expands with water)
● Bones or hard pits
● Coffee grounds
● Fibrous foods like celery, corn husks, and artichokes
● Potato peels (can create a starchy paste that clogs pipes)
Keeping these items out of your garbage disposal will help prevent breakdowns and extend its lifespan. However, even with careful use, problems can still develop over time. Therefore, watch for these signs that indicate your unit may need repair.
Signs Your Garbage Disposal May Need Repair
If you notice any of the following, it may be time to repair or replace your unit:
● Persistent clogs, even with proper use
● Unusual noises like humming, grinding, or rattling
● Foul odors that won’t go away despite cleaning
● Leaks beneath your kitchen sink
● Weak grinding performance
● Frequent need to press the reset button
Garbage Disposal Repair Tips
● Always turn off and unplug the unit before inspecting or unclogging.
● NEVER USE YOUR HANDS to remove debris. Use tongs or pliers.
● If the disposal suddenly stops, try pressing the reset button located on the underside of the unit.
When repairs become frequent or performance drops sharply, it may be time for a new garbage disposal.
Installation & Replacement
If your unit has outlived its average lifespan or suffered significant damage, replacing it with a new garbage disposal is the best option.
A-1 Sewer & Septic specializes in:
● Garbage disposal installation
● Garbage disposal repair
● Drain cleaning
● Kitchen plumbing upgrades
From replacing an old unit to installing one for the first time, we can recommend a garbage disposal that fits your needs and budget.
How to Extend the Garbage Disposal Lifespan
Taking care of your disposal is the key to keeping it in top condition for years beyond its average life expectancy. Here are proven DIY tips for homeowners for proper maintenance:
Use the Baking Soda & Vinegar Method
To eliminate odors and bacteria, pour equal parts baking soda and vinegar into the disposal, let it foam for 10–15 minutes, and rinse with running water.
Let It Run Longer
After the grinding stops, keep the disposal running for 10–15 seconds with the water still on to flush food particles through the pipes.
Run It Regularly
Even if you’re not using it often, run cold water and turn on the disposal every few days to prevent rust and blade corrosion.
Use Cold Water
Cold water helps solidify grease, allowing it to be ground up and flushed away. Running cold water for 20–30 seconds before and after use helps prevent buildup and odors.
Chop Up Large Food Scraps
Cut larger food items into smaller pieces before putting them in the disposal to prevent strain on the motor and blades.
Address Issues Immediately
Don’t ignore strange noises, odors, or slow draining. Quick action can prevent costly breakdowns.
Get a Plumbing Check-Up
Schedule a periodic plumbing inspection to catch leaks or drainage issues before they affect your disposal.
Follow a Regular Cleaning Schedule
Monthly cleaning with baking soda, vinegar, or ice cubes can keep blades sharp and prevent buildup. Even the best garbage disposal won’t last forever, but these habits can help it reach and even exceed its typical life expectancy.
Call a Kansas City Plumber You Can Trust
If your disposal is clogged, leaking, or failing, contact A-1 Sewer & Septic Service Inc. Our expert Kansas City plumbers offer same-day and weekend appointments to get your kitchen back on track.
From installing a new unit to repairing an existing one, we’ll make sure your garbage disposal lasts as long as possible, and when it’s time for a new one, we’ll help you choose the perfect replacement.
Contact a Kansas City plumber from A-1 Sewer & Septic Service Inc. to schedule a service call!