We act as a commercial plumber for many local and residential businesses
Garbage Disposal Repair and Installation In Apache Junction, Arizona
We understand the unique requirements of commercial systems. These disposals are powerful machines that require specialized knowledge to repair and install. We offer maintenance plans to keep your commercial plumbing equipment in top shape. From grease trap cleaning to commercial disposal repair, we are the partner your business needs to succeed.
Expert Garbage Disposal Services in Apache Junction Arizona
Welcome to Apache Junction Plumbing Pros. The kitchen is the heart of the home, and the garbage disposal is the silent workhorse that keeps it clean and functional. When this appliance is working correctly, it makes meal cleanup a breeze and helps keep your kitchen smelling fresh. However, when it jams, leaks, or stops working, it can bring your daily routine to a grinding halt. A broken disposal often leads to a clogged kitchen sink, foul odors, and the inability to use your dishwasher. We are your dedicated experts for garbage disposal repair and garbage disposal installation in Apache Junction Arizona.
We understand that residents of Apache Junction need reliable, heavy duty plumbing solutions. Whether you are in a large family home cooking three meals a day or a winter visitor in a park model, your kitchen plumbing needs to work when you need it. We handle every aspect of kitchen plumbing, from simple unjamming services to complete unit replacements. We strive to be the best plumbing company for homeowners who value quality, durability, and fast response times.
The Importance of a Reliable Garbage Disposal
Your garbage disposal serves a critical sanitation role. By grinding up food waste into small particles, it allows organic matter to pass safely through your plumbing system. This reduces the amount of wet waste in your trash can, which can attract pests and create unpleasant smells in the Arizona heat.
However, a disposal is a complex appliance that combines plumbing and electricity. It involves a high torque motor, sharp impellers, and water seals. When any part of this system fails, it requires professional attention. Attempting to fix a disposal yourself can be dangerous due to the risk of electrical shock or injury from the blades. We are the residential plumber you can trust to handle these repairs safely and effectively.
Common Garbage Disposal Problems We Fix
Garbage disposals are generally durable, but they are not indestructible. In Apache Junction, we see several common issues that require professional repair.
The Disposal Hums But Will Not Turn
This is the most frequent issue we encounter. If you flip the switch and hear a low humming or buzzing sound, but the blades are not moving, you likely have a jammed garbage disposal. This usually happens when a hard object, such as a fruit pit, a small bone, or a utensil, gets lodged between the impeller plate and the shredder ring. It can also indicate a seized motor. If you hear this noise, turn the switch off immediately to prevent the motor from burning out. We have the tools to safely unjam the unit.
The Unit Will Not Turn On
If you flip the switch and there is absolute silence, it is likely an electrical issue. It could be as simple as the internal overload protector (the red reset button) tripping, or it could be a tripped circuit breaker. However, it can also indicate that the motor has failed completely or that the wall switch is faulty. We can diagnose the electrical connection and determine if the unit needs a restart or a replacement.
Leaking Garbage Disposal
Water pooling under your sink is a sure sign of trouble. A garbage disposal leaking from bottom usually indicates that the internal seals have worn out. This allows water to pass through the motor housing and drip onto the cabinet floor. In this case, garbage disposal replacement services are usually necessary. If the leak is coming from the top, it might be a loose sink flange. If it is coming from the side, it could be a loose drain connection or dishwasher hookup. We act as your leak detection experts to pinpoint the source.
Slow Draining Sink
If your disposal runs but the water drains very slowly, you may have a clog further down the discharge pipe. This is often caused by grinding improper items like potato peels, coffee grounds, or eggshells, which create a paste that blocks the pipe. We provide drain cleaning for clogged kitchen sink issues to clear the line and restore proper flow.
Loud Grinding Noises
A loud, metal on metal grinding noise usually means a foreign object has fallen into the disposal. It could be a spoon, a ring, or a piece of glass. It can also indicate that the internal components are loose or broken. If you hear this, stop using the unit immediately and contact us. We can often retrieve the object and save the unit.
IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTICE REGARDING GAS:
While working in the kitchen, be aware of your gas appliances. If you smell gas, suspect a gas leak, or hear a hissing sound near a gas line or behind your stove, go outside and call 911 immediately. This is a serious emergency that needs urgent attention from emergency services and utility providers. Do not remain in the building. Once the area is declared safe by officials, we can assist with gas line repair.
Garbage Disposal Installation and Replacement
There comes a time when a repair is no longer cost effective. Most garbage disposals have a lifespan of about 8 to 12 years. If your unit is older, frequently clogs, or has a cracked body, it is time for a replacement. We offer professional garbage disposal installation services for homeowners in Apache Junction.
Choosing the Right Horsepower
Not all disposals are created equal. We can help you select the right unit for your needs.
- 1/3 HP: Good for light use in small apartments or for individuals who rarely cook.
- 1/2 HP: The standard for many homes, suitable for typical meal preparation.
- 3/4 HP: Recommended for families. These units have more torque, grind food finer, and are less likely to jam.
- 1 HP: The best choice for heavy cooks and large families. These units can handle tough waste like fibrous vegetables and chicken bones (check manufacturer specs) and often feature sound insulation for quieter operation.
Professional Installation Benefits
Installing a disposal involves securing the mounting assembly to the sink, connecting the drain lines, ensuring the dishwasher knockout is removed, and wiring the unit safely. Improper installation can lead to vibration, leaks, and electrical hazards. We ensure that the unit is mounted securely and that all connections are watertight. We are the plumber near me that ensures your new appliance is installed to code.
The Impact of Apache Junction Hard Water
One factor that significantly affects appliances in Apache Junction is our hard water. The high mineral content in our water supply can shorten the life of your garbage disposal.
Scale Buildup on Impellers
Calcium and magnesium deposits can build up on the grinding components, making them dull and less effective. This forces the motor to work harder to grind food, leading to overheating and premature failure.
Corrosion of Components
While the grinding chamber is often made of plastic or stainless steel, other components can corrode due to the aggressive nature of hard water combined with food acids. We inspect for corrosion during our service calls. We can also recommend water softeners to protect all your plumbing appliances, including your water heater and disposal.
What Not to Put Down Your Disposal
Prevention is the best way to avoid the need for garbage disposal repair. Many of the service calls we receive in Apache Junction are due to improper usage. To keep your unit running smoothly, avoid putting these items down the drain:
- Grease, Fats, and Oils: Liquid grease solidifies as it cools, coating the inside of the disposal and the drain pipes. This is the number one cause of kitchen clogs.
- Fibrous Vegetables: Celery, corn husks, artichokes, and asparagus have tough fibers that can tangle around the blades and jam the motor.
- Starchy Foods: Potato peels, pasta, and rice expand when wet and turn into a thick paste that clogs the drain and slows down the blades.
- Coffee Grounds: These do not break down; they accumulate in the P-trap like sand, creating a dense blockage.
- Eggshells: The membrane inside the shell can wrap around the shredder ring, while the shell itself grinds into a sand like substance that causes clogs.
- Non Food Items: Glass, plastic, metal, paper, and cigarette butts should never go into the disposal.
Troubleshooting Tips Before You Call
We know that a broken disposal is inconvenient. Before you contact us, there are two safe troubleshooting steps you can try. WARNING: Never put your hand inside the disposal, even if you think it is off.
1. The Reset Button
If the unit has stopped working completely, check the overload protector. Look under the sink at the bottom of the disposal unit. You will see a small red button. If it is popped out, the motor has tripped. Wait a few minutes for the unit to cool down, then press the button back in. Try turning on the water and the switch again.
2. The Allen Wrench Fix
If the unit is humming, it is jammed. Most disposals come with a service wrench (a hex key). Look for a hex shaped hole in the center of the bottom of the unit. Insert the wrench and manually crank it back and forth. This manual force can often dislodge the bone or object jamming the plates. Once it moves freely, remove the wrench and press the reset button.
If these steps do not work, or if you are not comfortable performing them, call us immediately. We are the 24 hour plumber ready to assist you. forcing the unit can cause electrical damage or leaks.
Plumbing Pro Services
Complete Plumbing Care for Your Entire Home
Whether it’s the kitchen, bathroom, or sewer line, we have the tools and training to handle any challenge your plumbing system throws at us.
We Deliver Expert Results
Don’t gamble with your plumbing. We combine years of experience with modern technology to deliver lasting repairs and installations. Our team respects your time and your property.
- Fixture Installation
- Leak Detection
- Modern Diagnostics
- Drain Cleaning
Comprehensive Kitchen Plumbing Services
While we specialize in garbage disposals, we look at the kitchen plumbing as a whole system. A disposal issue is often linked to other components.
Dishwasher Hookups
Your dishwasher drains its water through the garbage disposal. If the knockout plug was not removed during installation, or if the disposal is clogged, your dishwasher will not drain. This leads to standing water in the bottom of your dishwasher. We can hook up dishwasher water line connections and ensure the drain hose is properly looped (the “high loop”) to prevent dirty sink water from flowing back into your clean dishes.
P-Trap and Drain Lines
The curved pipe under your sink (the P-trap) is designed to hold water and block sewer gases. However, it is also a common catch point for debris ground up by the disposal. If you have a kitchen sink drain that keeps backing up, we can remove and clean the trap or snake the line beyond it.
Faucet Installation
If you are upgrading your disposal during a kitchen renovation, it is a great time to consider a faucet installation. We can install new faucet and sink combinations that complement your new appliance. We also handle leaking faucet repair if your existing fixture is dripping.
Commercial Garbage Disposal Services
It is not just homeowners who need reliable kitchen plumbing. Restaurants, cafeterias, and commercial kitchens in Apache Junction rely on heavy duty disposals to manage food waste. A breakdown during a lunch rush can be a disaster for a commercial kitchen.
We act as a commercial plumber for local businesses. We install and repair commercial grade disposals that range from 1 HP to 5 HP. These units are designed for continuous operation and can handle much larger volumes of waste. We also provide commercial drain cleaning to keep grease traps and drain lines flowing freely.
Why Choose Apache Junction Plumbing Pros?
We are a locally focused company dedicated to serving the Apache Junction community. We understand the specific needs of our residents, from year round families to our winter visitors.
Fast Response Times
We know that a kitchen plumbing issue disrupts your life. We act as a fast response plumber to get your kitchen back up and running. We offer same day plumber services for urgent repairs.
Honest and Transparent
We believe in treating our customers with respect. We provide clear explanations of the problem and the solution. We do not try to sell you a new unit if a simple repair will solve the issue. We are the trusted plumber for homeowners who value integrity.
Expert Technicians
Our team is highly trained in all aspects of modern plumbing. From water heater repair to gas line installation, we have the skills to handle any job. We stay up to date on the latest appliance models and local building codes.
Protecting Your Plumbing System
A garbage disposal is a convenience, but it should not be treated as a trash can. Using it correctly and maintaining it properly will extend its life and protect your pipes.
Cleaning Your Disposal
To keep your disposal smelling fresh and running well, you can grind up ice cubes. This helps clean the blades and scour the inside of the grinding chamber. You can also grind up small citrus peels (lemon or orange) to add a fresh scent. Avoid using harsh chemical drain cleaners, as these can damage the seals and lead to a garbage disposal leaking from bottom.
Run Water Before and After
Always turn on the cold water before you turn on the disposal, and let it run for at least 15 seconds after you turn the disposal off. This flush ensures that all the ground food particles are washed completely through the drain pipe and into the main sewer line, preventing clogs.
Service Areas
We are proud to serve Apache Junction and the surrounding communities. We are willing to travel to your location to provide top tier service.
Serving the following locations and Zip Codes:
- Apache Junction, AZ: 85119, 85120, 85178
- Gold Canyon, AZ: 85118
- Queen Valley, AZ: 85118
- Mesa, AZ (East): 85207, 85208, 85209, 85212
- San Tan Valley, AZ: 85140, 85142, 85143
Contact us today to schedule your service. Let us show you why we are the top choice for plumbing in Apache Junction Arizona. We are ready to get to work for you.
