Garbage Disposal Repair in Fort Lauderdale

If your disposal doesn't respond when you flip the switch, first check the reset button on the bottom of the unit and press it if it's popped out. Next, check if the circuit breaker has tripped. If both are fine, the problem could be a faulty switch, bad wiring, or a burned-out motor. Our plumbers diagnose the exact issue and provide upfront pricing for repair or replacement.

A humming sound without grinding means the motor is running but the flywheel is jammed. This often happens when hard objects (bones, utensils, fruit pits) get stuck in the grinding chamber. Turn off the disposal immediately to prevent motor burnout. Never put your hand inside-call Royal Elite Plumbing to safely unjam the unit using proper tools. If left running while jammed, the motor can overheat and require replacement.

If your disposal is under 5 years old and the issue is a simple jam or minor leak, repair usually makes sense. However, if your disposal is 10+ years old (the average lifespan), has a burned-out motor, cracked housing, or would cost more than 60% of replacement to repair, we typically recommend replacement. Our plumbers provide honest assessments and show you both options with upfront pricing.

Never put grease, fats, or oils (they solidify in pipes), bones (they jam or dull the disposal), fibrous vegetables like celery or corn husks (they wrap around the impeller), eggshells, coffee grounds, pasta, rice, potato peels, or any non-food items down your disposal. These items cause most jams and clogs. Always run cold water before, during, and after using the disposal.

Disposal leaks typically occur at the sink flange connection, dishwasher drain connection, or drain pipe connection. The sink flange seal can deteriorate (especially in humid South Florida), rubber gaskets can crack, or connections can loosen over time. If the disposal housing itself is cracked from age or corrosion, replacement is necessary. We identify the exact leak source and repair or replace as needed.

Costs vary by the specific problem and whether repair or replacement is needed. Typical Palm Beach County pricing: service call and unjam $150-$225, repairs with parts $200-$400, standard 1/2 HP replacement $400-$600 installed, premium 3/4-1 HP models $600-$900 installed, ultra-quiet premium models $800-$1,200 installed. We provide upfront written estimates before starting any work.

Yes, if you call before noon, we typically can provide same-day service in most Palm Beach County areas. We also offer 24/7 emergency service for urgent situations. Our service vehicles stock common replacement disposals, so we can often complete replacement installations the same day. Weekend appointments are available without premium charges.

We install and service all major brands including InSinkErator (Evolution, Badger, and Pro series), Waste King (Legend and Boss series), KitchenAid, Moen GX series, and commercial-grade models. We stock the most popular models on our trucks and can source any specific brand or model you prefer. We'll help you choose the right disposal for your household needs, budget, and whether you have a septic system.

Garbage disposals can be used with septic systems, but require careful use. We recommend septic-safe disposal models with fine grinding capabilities and advise limiting disposal use to minimize septic system impact. Some homes with smaller septic systems may be better off without a disposal. We evaluate your specific septic system and provide honest advice about whether a disposal is appropriate and which models work best with septic tanks.

Quality garbage disposals typically last 10-15 years with proper use and maintenance. However, in South Florida's humid climate with hard water, disposals may fail sooner due to corrosion and mineral buildup. Premium models with stainless steel components and anti-corrosion coatings last longer. Regular maintenance (weekly ice cube grinding, monthly baking soda treatments) and proper use (avoiding forbidden items) extend disposal life significantly.