What is the life expectancy of a garbage disposal?

Author: Trudie Hegmann  |  Last update: Wednesday, February 18, 2026

With regard to life expectancy, garbage disposal units typically last for around 10 to 12 years. As with any appliance, careful maintenance can extend a disposal's lifespan. Chronic neglect or ill-advised use, on the other hand, can necessitate a unit's replacement in just a few years.

How do I know if my garbage disposal needs to be replaced?

Well, you should replace your garbage disposal if you see these 5 signs:
  1. It clogs often (either the blades are getting dull, or you need a larger disposal)
  2. You have to press the RESET button often.
  3. Food takes longer and longer to grind.
  4. The unit is leaky.
  5. The unit is making loud noises.

How often do you need to replace a garbage disposal?

If you should especially consider replacing your disposal if it's been at least a decade since your last renovation or garbage disposal installation project. Most disposals have a life expectancy of about 10 years, after which they may start clogging more often.

How to tell if a garbage disposal motor is bad?

Listen for Unusual Sounds: If the unit hums but doesn't turn, it may indicate that the motor is stuck or has failed. If you hear a clicking sound, this could suggest that the motor is not engaging properly. Check for Overheating: If the disposal has been used heavily, it may have overheated and shut down.

What happens when a garbage disposal dies?

If it is not working, disconnect your garbage disposal drain trap and remove the disposal trap together with the discharge drain line. Check for any clog blocking the drain system and clear it out. If no obstructions are found in the discharge drain line, the clog is likely in the sink's plumbing.

What You Should Know | How Long Does A Garbage Disposal Last

Why is my garbage disposal humming but not turning?

If your garbage disposal hums but doesn't turn, you know that the appliance is receiving power – it's just not operating correctly. Often, a clog or jam in the motor is the cause when you experience such symptoms.

How many years can a garbage disposal last?

How Many Years Do Most Garbage Disposals Last? Most modern garbage disposals will last anywhere from 8 to 15 years. An average household with four or five family members can expect to replace their disposal roughly every 12 years if properly maintained.

How much is a new motor for garbage disposal?

A ⅓ or ½-horsepower (HP) motor may be priced anywhere from $50 to $225. This should be an adequate size for a small household of a couple of people. A more powerful garbage disposal for a bigger household with five or six people may need 1 HP. This can range from $200 to $400.

What happens if you press the reset button on a garbage disposal?

Most garbage disposals have a reset button that operates like a mini circuit breaker. If the disposal clogs, jams, or overheats, the button pops out. Pressing the reset button often makes the disposal work again.

Can you still use the sink if the garbage disposal is broken?

In most cases, you can still use the sink even if the garbage disposal or the sink sprayer is malfunctioning.

Do I need a plumber to replace a garbage disposal?

A professional plumber with years of experience can ensure the unit is installed properly to prevent leakage. Garbage disposals require a power source, which can be dangerous if you're not familiar with electrical work.

What does a burned out garbage disposal motor sound like?

A non-responsive garbage disposal with no power or a humming sound without blade movement suggests a burnt-out motor. These issues can lead to a malfunctioning disposal and potential safety hazards.

How much does it cost to replace a garbage disposal?

The cost of garbage disposal replacement is $550 on average, though it can range between $150 and $950. The majority of the cost is for the garbage disposal itself, but labor can also greatly impact the total price tag. Using the garbage disposal helps keep your sink clean and your plumbing in good shape.

How long does it take a plumber to replace a garbage disposal?

An expert installer can install a new disposal in two to four hours on average.

When should I get a new garbage disposal?

With regard to life expectancy, garbage disposal units typically last for around 10 to 12 years. As with any appliance, careful maintenance can extend a disposal's lifespan. Chronic neglect or ill-advised use, on the other hand, can necessitate a unit's replacement in just a few years.

Why is my garbage disposal humming but not working?

If your garbage disposal is making noise and not working, it likely indicates that the blades are jammed, the motor has overheated, or there is an electrical issue. Check for any blockages inside the disposal and clear them. Press the reset button to see if the motor has overheated.

Can a garbage disposal leak from the bottom?

A: If your garbage disposal is leaking out the bottom near the reset button, you most likely have a leak in the metal plate that is located directly under the blades. This plate is designed to protect the electrically powered parts of the motor (the rotor, the shaft, etc.)

How much does Home Depot charge to replace a garbage disposal?

Home Depot vs.

The Home Depot and Lowe's charge $120 to $200 to install a garbage disposal unit. These prices are for replacements with favorable site conditions. Modifying or adding plumbing piping and electrical work cost extra.

Who installs a garbage disposal, plumber or electrician?

One of the chief reasons to call a plumber to install your new garbage disposal as opposed to an electrician is that they are more knowledgeable when it comes to the work. Plumbers are well versed in proper plumbing techniques, including how to properly connect pipes and seals.

How many years should a garbage disposal last?

According to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI), the average lifespan of a garbage disposal is between 12-15 years. Factors that influence how long garbage disposals last include product quality, frequency of use, and the types of items put into it.

How do you know when a garbage disposal is bad?

5 signs you need garbage disposal replacement
  1. You're experiencing constant clogs. Every homeowner has the experience of trying to dispose of too much food waste at once and having to wait for the disposal to catch up as it grinds its way through the material. ...
  2. Weird noises. ...
  3. Leaks. ...
  4. Bad odors. ...
  5. Inconsistent power.

Is it worth replacing a garbage disposal?

In the event that a garbage disposal does begin to seriously malfunction, it's almost always more cost-effective to simply replace it. Of course, if a garbage disposal had to replaced every single time it clogged, no one would ever use one again.

What should I do with my old garbage disposal?

Since garbage disposals are mostly metal, it is better to think salvage rather than the landfill. This process recycles a variety of items including copper, aluminum, steel and more. Find out where to take your old disposer check with Earth911 and check under “metals” for your local zip code.

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