Garbage disposals are mechanical devices with a finite service life — typically 8–12 years. If yours is making grinding noises, humming without spinning, leaking from the base, or simply won't turn on, it's likely time for a replacement. We stock InSinkErator, Moen, and Waste King units in a range of horsepower ratings and can typically complete installation in under an hour.
If your disposal just needs a reset or has a foreign object jam, we can often fix it on the spot without replacement. Our plumbers accurately diagnose the issue before recommending repair versus replacement — we're not here to oversell you a new unit if the existing one just needs a quick fix.
Proper disposal installation matters more than most homeowners realize. An improperly installed unit can leak underneath your sink, corrode cabinet interiors, and cause mold problems that far exceed the cost of the disposal itself. We install every unit with proper mounting, sealing, and drain connection per California code.
Signs You Need Garbage Disposals Now
- ✕Humming but not spinning — the motor is getting power but the grinding plate is jammed
- ✕Won't turn on at all — internal thermal overload tripped or the unit has failed electrically
- ✕Leaking from the bottom of the unit — the internal seal has failed and replacement is needed
- ✕Leak at the sink flange where the disposal meets the drain — the mounting seal has degraded
- ✕Loud grinding or rattling — a foreign object like a bottle cap or utensil is caught in the grind chamber
- ✕Persistent foul odor that won't clear — food buildup in the splash guard or the unit is failing internally
How Garbage Disposals Works
We test the disposal motor, check for jams, inspect the mount and flange seal, and identify whether the issue is mechanical, electrical, or a drain connection problem.
We tell you honestly whether a reset or jam clearing will fix it, or whether the unit has reached the end of its service life and replacement makes more sense.
We disconnect and remove the existing disposal, inspect the sink flange and drain line, and clean the mounting area before installing the new unit.
The new unit is mounted, wired, and all connections — including the dishwasher drain line and P-trap — are properly reconnected and sealed.
We run water through the disposal under load, check every connection for leaks, and confirm the drain flows freely before considering the job done.
What's Included with Garbage Disposals
Disposal Replacement
New InSinkErator, Moen, or Waste King disposal installed and tested.
Jam Clearing
Foreign object removal and motor reset without unnecessary replacement.
Leak Repair
Base seal, flange, and discharge line leak diagnosis and repair.
Electrical Connection
Proper wiring connection or switch installation per code.
Drain Line Reconnection
Dishwasher drain line and P-trap reconnection after replacement.
Upgrade Consultation
Recommendation of the right horsepower and features for your household.
Southern California's Trusted Garbage Disposals Specialists Since 2000
C-36 Licensed
License #0784091 issued by the California CSLB. You can verify it at any time. We are fully licensed for all residential and commercial plumbing.
25+ Years in Business
Founded in 2000 by Joseph Romero, America's Plumbing has been serving Southern California homeowners for over 25 years — same owner, same values.
Upfront Flat Pricing
You get a written price before we touch anything. No hourly billing surprises. No charges for work you didn't approve. What we quote is what you pay.
Written Warranty
All workmanship is backed by a written warranty. If something we repaired fails due to our work, we come back and fix it at no charge.
Common Questions About Garbage Disposal Services
What size garbage disposal do I need?
For most households, a 1/2 to 3/4 HP disposal is sufficient. Larger families or those who cook frequently may benefit from a 1 HP unit. We'll recommend the right size based on your usage.
My disposal hums but won't grind — is it broken?
A humming disposal that won't spin usually means the motor is jammed. There's a reset button on the bottom and a hex key slot for manual unjamming. Call us if you can't clear it.
Why is my disposal leaking from the bottom?
A leak from the bottom of the disposal means the internal seal has failed — this requires replacement, not repair.
How long does disposal installation take?
Most garbage disposal replacements take 45–60 minutes. We remove the old unit, install the new one, reconnect the drain and dishwasher line, and test for leaks before we leave.
Kitchen Plumbing Services
Kitchen remodels are the single most popular home improvement project in So…
Learn more →Drain Cleaning & Hydro Jetting
Slow or clogged drains are more than a nuisance — they're a warning sign of…
Learn more →Fixture Installation & Repair
A dripping faucet, running toilet, or leaking sink may seem minor — but lef…
Learn more →Water Line Repair & Replacement
The main water line connecting your home to the city supply is one of the m…
Learn more →Get a Free Quote in San Jacinto & Southern California
Call us now or fill out the form. Joe will personally call you back within the hour. For plumbing emergencies, we dispatch immediately — 24/7, 365 days a year.