A clogged or backed-up garbage disposal is one of the most frustrating kitchen plumbing problems. If your sink is draining slowly, making strange noises, or water is backing up, you’re not alone—many homeowners in Everett, MA, experience similar issues due to aging plumbing, food buildup, or improper use.
If your garbage disposal isn’t working properly, Lund Plumbing & Heating can diagnose the problem and get it running smoothly again.
Need fast repair? Schedule garbage disposal service today.
Serving Everett & Surrounding Areas: Learn more about our Everett plumbing services.
1. Common Causes of Garbage Disposal Clogs
Many Everett homeowners unknowingly put things down the drain that shouldn’t go in a garbage disposal. Over time, these materials can clog pipes, dull blades, or jam the motor.
Top Reasons Garbage Disposals Back Up:
- Grease & Oils – Hardens in pipes, creating blockages.
- Coffee Grounds – Turns into sludge that clogs drains.
- Eggshells & Potato Peels – Sticky starches can coat pipes and slow drainage.
- Pasta & Rice – Expands in water, forming thick clogs.
- Non-Food Items – Paper towels, plastic wrappers, or bones can jam the motor.
Best Practice: Always run cold water before, during, and after use to help flush debris through the system.
Related: Learn why older homes in Winchester need plumbing upgrades.
2. Signs You Need Garbage Disposal Repair
If you notice any of these warning signs, your garbage disposal may need professional repair:
- Sink drains slowly or backs up into both sides.
- Disposal hums but doesn’t grind food.
- Foul odors that don’t go away after cleaning.
- Water leaking from the disposal unit.
- Blades aren’t spinning or disposal won’t turn on.
Tip: If your garbage disposal frequently trips the reset button, it could be overloaded, overheating, or have a failing motor.
Related: Learn how water filtration can prevent plumbing clogs.
3. DIY Garbage Disposal Troubleshooting Tips
Before calling a plumber, try these basic troubleshooting steps:
How to Fix a Clogged Garbage Disposal:
- Reset the Unit – Press the reset button on the bottom of the disposal.
- Check for Jams – Use a hex key in the bottom slot to manually turn the blades.
- Flush with Baking Soda & Vinegar – Let it sit for 10 minutes, then rinse with hot water.
- Avoid Overloading – Feed small amounts of food waste at a time.
Warning: Never stick your hands inside the disposal! Use tongs or pliers if you need to remove an object.
Not working? Schedule a garbage disposal repair with Lund Plumbing & Heating.
4. When to Replace Your Garbage Disposal
If your garbage disposal is more than 8-10 years old, or repairs are becoming frequent, it may be time to replace it.
Signs You Need a New Garbage Disposal:
- Frequent clogs despite proper use.
- Strange noises (grinding, rattling, humming).
- Leaks from the bottom of the unit.
- Food takes longer to grind or drains slowly.
- Disposal has a burning smell or smokes.
Best Choice: New high-efficiency garbage disposals grind food faster, use less energy, and are quieter than older models.
Related: Learn how sump pumps prevent flooding in Stoneham, MA.
5. Professional Garbage Disposal Repair & Installation in Everett, MA
At Lund Plumbing & Heating, we provide:
- Fast repairs to fix clogs, motor issues, and leaks.
- New garbage disposal installation for long-term reliability.
- Routine maintenance to keep your unit working smoothly.
Call (781) 944-2222 or schedule service online to book a garbage disposal repair or replacement.
Serving Everett & Surrounding Areas: Learn more about our Everett plumbing services.
