What are expert tips for when to replace vs repair your disposal?

Write the installation date on the disposal with a permanent marker. Knowing the age helps with repair-vs-replace decisions. If your disposal is original to the house and you don't know the age, it's probably time to replace it. A disposal that works but is just slow or loud is telling you it's wearing out. Replace it on your schedule, not during Thanksgiving dinner. Save the model number. Parts availability for older models dries up after about 10 years.

What mistakes should I avoid with when to replace vs repair your disposal?

Spending $80 on a plumber to diagnose a disposal that costs $120 to replace. Replacing a disposal because of a drain clog. The clog is usually in the pipe, not the disposal. Buying the cheapest replacement. The difference between a $60 and $120 disposal is significant in noise, power, and lifespan. Ignoring a bottom leak. Water under the sink causes cabinet damage and mold.

When to Replace vs Repair Your Disposal

Overview

Garbage disposals are simple machines with a 10-15 year lifespan. When they start acting up, the fix is usually obvious and cheap -- or the unit is done and replacement is the smarter move. Knowing where that line is saves you from wasting money repairing a disposal that's about to fail anyway.

What to Know

Signs It Needs a Simple Fix

Jams that clear with the hex wrench -- normal wear, not a failure sign. Odors -- cleaning issue, not a mechanical problem. Slow draining -- usually a clog in the drain pipe, not the disposal. Humming but not spinning -- a jam or a reset button trip. Leaking from the top flange -- the mounting ring may just need tightening.

Signs It Needs Replacement

Leaking from the bottom of the unit -- the internal seals have failed and can't be repaired. Frequent resets even with small loads -- the motor is overheating. Persistent grinding noise even when empty -- bearings are worn. Takes much longer to grind food than it used to -- impellers or grind ring are worn down. The unit is over 10 years old and having multiple issues.

Cost Comparison

A new 1/2 HP disposal costs $80-$150 installed. A 3/4 HP model runs $150-$250. Repair parts (splash guard, mounting hardware, dishwasher connector) are $5-$20. If a single repair costs more than half the price of a new unit, replace it. If the unit is over 8 years old and needs anything beyond basic maintenance, replace it.

Upgrading While You're At It

If you're replacing a disposal, consider stepping up in power. Going from 1/3 HP to 3/4 HP costs maybe $50-$80 more but handles food waste dramatically better. Continuous feed models with sound insulation (InSinkErator Evolution series, Waste King Legend) are noticeably quieter than budget models.

Pro Tips

Write the installation date on the disposal with a permanent marker. Knowing the age helps with repair-vs-replace decisions.
If your disposal is original to the house and you don't know the age, it's probably time to replace it.
A disposal that works but is just slow or loud is telling you it's wearing out. Replace it on your schedule, not during Thanksgiving dinner.
Save the model number. Parts availability for older models dries up after about 10 years.

Mistakes to Avoid

Spending $80 on a plumber to diagnose a disposal that costs $120 to replace.
Replacing a disposal because of a drain clog. The clog is usually in the pipe, not the disposal.
Buying the cheapest replacement. The difference between a $60 and $120 disposal is significant in noise, power, and lifespan.
Ignoring a bottom leak. Water under the sink causes cabinet damage and mold.

When to Call a Pro

Disposal replacement is a straightforward DIY job if you're comfortable with basic electrical connections and plumbing. If you're not, a plumber or handyman can swap a disposal in under an hour. Average install labor is $100-$200.

Bottom Line

If it jams, smells, or drains slow -- fix it, those are maintenance issues. If it leaks from the bottom, grinds poorly, or keeps tripping the reset -- replace it. A new disposal is $80-$250 installed and lasts another decade.