We act as a commercial plumber for many local and residential businesses
Garbage Disposal Repair and Installation In Fullerton, California
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.
Garbage Disposal Services in Fullerton
The garbage disposal is one of the most convenient appliances in the modern kitchen. It allows for quick and easy cleanup after meals, reducing the amount of waste that ends up in your trash can and helping to keep your kitchen smelling fresh. However, when this hardworking appliance jams, leaks, or stops working altogether, it can bring your kitchen duties to a sudden halt. At Fullerton Plumbing Pros, we specialize in professional garbage disposal repair and garbage disposal installation. We serve the homeowners and businesses of Fullerton with dedication and skill, ensuring that your kitchen plumbing functions smoothly.
We understand that a broken disposal often leads to a clogged kitchen sink, making it difficult to wash dishes or prepare food. That is why we offer fast response times and comprehensive solutions. Whether you need to unjam a stuck unit, replace a worn out motor, or install a high power model for a large family, we are the local plumber you can trust. We are committed to providing top tier service to the Fullerton community without the use of high pressure sales tactics. If you are looking for garbage disposal repair near me, our team is ready to assist you.
The Vital Role of Your Garbage Disposal
In many Fullerton homes, the garbage disposal is an essential part of the daily routine. It helps manage food scraps and keeps the kitchen sanitary. When it functions correctly, you barely notice it. When it fails, it becomes the center of attention. A malfunctioning disposal can lead to bad odors, slow draining water, and even messy backups.
We provide a full range of services to keep this appliance running at peak performance. We handle everything from minor repairs to complete system overhauls. Our technicians are familiar with all major brands and models, ensuring that no matter what equipment you have, we can provide the right solution.
Common Garbage Disposal Problems
Garbage disposals are durable, but they are not invincible. Daily use takes a toll on the internal components. We frequently encounter a specific set of issues in Fullerton kitchens.
The Jammed Disposal
This is the most common call we receive. A disposal jams when a hard object, such as a bone, fruit pit, or utensil, gets stuck between the impeller plate and the shredder ring. When this happens, the motor may hum but the blades will not turn. If left running, the motor can burn out. We have the specialized tools to safely unjam the unit and restore function.
The Unit Will Not Start
If you flip the switch and nothing happens, it could be an electrical issue. It might be as simple as a tripped reset button on the bottom of the unit, or it could be a blown circuit. In some cases, the motor itself has failed. We can diagnose the electrical connections and determine if the unit can be revived or if a garbage disposal replacement is necessary.
Leaks Under the Sink
Water pooling in the cabinet under your sink is a sign of a leak. Disposals can leak from several places. The mounting flange at the top may have loosened. The dishwasher connection hose might be cracked. Or, the body of the disposal itself may have developed a crack due to age or corrosion. We perform thorough leak detection to find the source and stop the water damage.
Slow Draining
If your disposal runs but the water takes forever to leave the sink, you likely have a clog in the drain pipe downstream from the unit. The disposal grinds food, but if that food is not flushed with enough water, it can accumulate in the P-trap or the main kitchen drain line. We offer kitchen sink clog services to clear these blockages and restore flow.
Garbage Disposal Repair Services
Repairing a garbage disposal requires a clear understanding of its mechanics. It involves electricity, water, and moving parts, which can be a dangerous combination for an untrained person. We strongly advise against putting your hand inside the disposal to fix a problem.
Safe Unjamming Techniques
When you call us for a jammed garbage disposal, we use specific tools designed to rotate the flywheel manually from the exterior or safely dislodge the obstruction from the interior without risking injury. We also inspect the grinding components to ensure no permanent damage was done to the blades or the motor.
Sealing and Tightening
Vibration from regular use can cause connections to loosen over time. We check the mounting assembly, the drain pipe connections, and the dishwasher hookup. Tightening these connections and replacing worn gaskets can often solve leak issues without the need for a new unit.
Resetting and Electrical Troubleshooting
Many disposals have an internal overload protector that trips when the motor overheats. We know exactly how to safely reset these systems and check the amperage draw to ensure the motor is not on the verge of failure. If the unit is humming but not grinding, we can determine if the capacitor is faulty or if the motor windings are damaged.
Garbage Disposal Installation and Replacement
There are times when a repair is simply not worth the cost. If your disposal is over ten years old, has a cracked body, or if the motor is dead, a replacement is the best option. We offer professional garbage disposal installation services in Fullerton.
Choosing the Right Horsepower
Not all disposals are created equal. The horsepower (HP) of the motor determines what the unit can handle.
- 1/3 HP: These are entry level models suitable for someone living alone who rarely cooks. They can handle soft foods but struggle with anything fibrous or hard.
- 1/2 HP: This is the standard for many apartments and small homes. It is adequate for light usage but can jam if overloaded.
- 3/4 HP: We recommend this size for most families in Fullerton. It has enough power to grind up tougher scraps and usually comes with better sound insulation.
- 1 HP: These are the workhorses of the kitchen. They can handle almost any food waste, including small bones and fibrous vegetables. They run smoothly and quietly and are built to last.
We help you select the right unit for your household size and cooking habits.
The Installation Process
Installing a disposal involves plumbing and electrical work. We handle every step carefully.
- Removal: We disconnect the power and plumbing, then remove the old unit and the mounting bracket.
- Preparation: We clean the sink opening to ensure a watertight seal for the new flange. Plumber’s putty or a rubber gasket is used to prevent leaks.
- Mounting: We install the new mounting assembly, locking it securely into place.
- Connections: We connect the drain pipes and the dishwasher discharge hose. If you have a dishwasher, it is critical to remove the “knockout plug” inside the new disposal. Failing to do this is a common amateur mistake that causes the dishwasher to flood.
- Testing: We fill the sink with water and run the unit to check for leaks and ensure proper drainage.
The Dishwasher Connection
Your dishwasher and garbage disposal work in tandem. The dishwasher pumps dirty water out through a hose that connects to the disposal. The disposal then grinds up any soft food particles left in that water before sending it down the drain.
Common Connection Issues
If your dishwasher is not draining, the problem might actually be your disposal. A clog in the disposal inlet or a kink in the hose can prevent the dishwasher from emptying. We inspect this connection as part of our service. We also ensure that the air gap (the small cylinder on your sink deck) is clear, as this prevents wastewater from siphoning back into the dishwasher.
What Not to Put Down Your Disposal
Education is a big part of what we do. Many of the repairs we perform in Fullerton could be avoided if homeowners knew exactly what items to avoid putting down the drain. Even the most powerful disposal has limitations.
The “Do Not Grind” List
- Grease and Oil: Fats may be liquid when hot, but they solidify in your pipes. This creates a sludge that traps other debris and causes severe clogs.
- Fibrous Foods: Celery, corn husks, onion skins, and artichokes have long fibers. These fibers can tangle around the blades and cause the motor to jam.
- Starchy Foods: Potato peels, pasta, and rice expand when wet. They can turn into a thick paste that clogs the drain trap.
- Coffee Grounds: While they seem small, coffee grounds accumulate like sand in the bottom of the drain pipe, creating a dense blockage.
- Egg Shells: The membrane inside the shell can wrap around the shredder ring, while the shell itself grinds into a sand like substance that contributes to clogs.
- Non Food Items: Glass, plastic, metal, and paper should never go down the disposal.
Maintenance Tips for a Healthy Disposal
Keeping your disposal clean and functional does not require expensive products. Simple habits can extend the life of the appliance.
Run Cold Water
Always run cold water before, during, and for 30 seconds after using the disposal. Cold water keeps fats solid so they can be chopped up and flushed away. Hot water melts fat, allowing it to coat the pipes further down the line.
Use Ice Cubes
Periodically grinding a few ice cubes can help clean the interior of the unit. The hard ice chips knock debris off the shredder ring and sharpen the blades slightly. You can add rock salt to the ice for extra scrubbing power.
Citrus for Freshness
If your disposal starts to smell, grind up a few lemon or orange peels. The citric acid helps clean the components, and the oils leave a fresh scent.
Troubleshooting Strange Noises
A garbage disposal makes a distinct sound when it is working properly. If that sound changes, it indicates a problem.
Humming or Buzzing
A humming sound usually means the motor is receiving power, but the flywheel is stuck. This is a jam. Turn the unit off immediately to prevent the motor from burning out. This is when you should call us for a jammed garbage disposal repair.
Grinding or Rattling
A loud metal on metal grinding noise usually means a foreign object has fallen into the unit. It could be a spoon, a piece of jewelry, or a screw. Turn the unit off and use a flashlight to look inside. Do not put your hand in. If you cannot retrieve the object with tongs, contact us.
Screeching
A high pitched screeching sound often indicates that the internal bearings of the motor have failed. In this case, the unit typically needs to be replaced.
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
Commercial Garbage Disposal Services
Restaurants, cafeterias, and commercial kitchens in Fullerton rely heavily on their disposals. These units are much larger and more powerful than residential models. They are designed to run continuously for long periods.
We are an experienced commercial plumber capable of handling these heavy duty machines. We understand that a broken disposal in a commercial kitchen can violate health codes and slow down food preparation. We offer fast response times for our commercial clients to ensure their operations continue without interruption.
Kitchen Plumbing and Drain Cleaning
The disposal is just one part of your kitchen’s plumbing system. We often find that a disposal issue is actually a symptom of a larger drainage problem.
Kitchen Sink Clog Repair
If your sink is backing up on both sides, the clog is likely in the P-trap or the drain arm. We use professional snakes and augers to clear these lines. We are careful to navigate the sharp bends in kitchen plumbing without damaging the pipes.
Pipe Repair and Replacement
The vibration of a disposal can sometimes cause stress on older metal pipes, leading to leaks or cracks. We offer pipe repair services to replace damaged sections of the drain line. We can upgrade old brass or galvanized traps to durable PVC or ABS plastic.
Why Professional Installation Matters
Many homeowners attempt to install a disposal themselves, only to face leaks or electrical issues later.
Electrical Safety
Disposals require a dedicated electrical connection. Whether it is hardwired or plugged into a switched outlet, the wiring must be code compliant. Incorrect wiring can be a fire hazard or lead to shocks. Our technicians are trained to handle these connections safely.
Proper Mounting
The mounting bracket supports the heavy weight of the disposal and the vibration it creates. If not installed correctly, the unit can vibrate loose, causing water damage to your cabinet. We ensure the unit is mounted securely and vibration is minimized.
Why Choose Fullerton Plumbing Pros?
We know you have choices when selecting a plumber in Fullerton. We work hard to be the best plumbing company for your needs by focusing on reliability, skill, and customer care.
Local Focus
We are part of the Fullerton community. We understand the local housing styles and the plumbing challenges they present. We are close by, which means we can respond quickly when you have a problem.
Experienced Team
Our technicians have installed and repaired thousands of garbage disposals. We have seen every type of jam and every type of leak. We bring this experience to every job, ensuring efficient and correct repairs.
Honest Advice
We will never tell you to replace a unit that can be easily fixed. Conversely, we will not waste your time repairing a unit that is at the end of its life. We provide honest assessments so you can make the best decision for your home.
Service Availability
We offer flexible scheduling to fit your busy life. We know that plumbing issues do not always happen during business hours. We are available as a weekend plumber and an after hours plumber for urgent needs. If your disposal leaks all over your kitchen on a Saturday night, we are the 24 7 plumbing help you can call.
We cover every neighborhood in Fullerton, from the downtown area to the residential suburbs. We also extend our services to the surrounding towns to ensure our neighbors have access to quality plumbing care.
Contact Us
Do not let a broken garbage disposal disrupt your kitchen routine. Whether it is a simple jam or a need for a complete upgrade, Fullerton Plumbing Pros is here to help. Contact us today to schedule your service. We are ready to get your kitchen back in working order.
Areas We Serve
Fullerton Zip Codes: 92831, 92832, 92833, 92834, 92835, 92836, 92837, 92838.
Surrounding Service Areas:
- Anaheim (92801, 92802, 92804, 92805, 92806, 92807, 92808)
- Brea (92821, 92823)
- Placentia (92870, 92871)
- La Habra (90631, 90632, 90633)
- Buena Park (90620, 90621, 90622, 90623, 90624)
- Yorba Linda (92885, 92886, 92887)