How Long Do Garbage Disposals Last (And Why)?

How Long Do Garbage Disposals Last (And Why)?

Exact Answer: About 10 Years

Garbage disposal is an electrically powered device installed under a kitchen sink between the sink’s drain and the trap to dispose of food waste and other debris.

Food waste and other debris enter the device and are chopped into small pieces by blades rotating at high speed. The resulting slurry then passes through a perforated screen, separating it from the blades and other solid objects. The slurry finally exits the device down the drain.

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How Long Do Garbage Disposals Last?

TypeDuration
Garbage disposal lifespan10 years
Garbage disposal cleaning timeOnce in 2-3 weeks

The time it takes for the garbage disposals to last depends on the brand, model, and how it is used. However, most garbage disposals last for about 10 years. 

Garbage disposals are a convenient way to get rid of food waste, but they also require some maintenance to keep them working properly. 

Ensure to run cold water while the disposal is on, and avoid putting things like bones or coffee grounds down the drain. If one takes care of the garbage disposal, it should last for several years.

If one notices a burning smell coming from the disposal, it’s time for a replacement. Burning is caused by grease or fat stuck in the blades and overheating. Replacing disposals with models with “self-cleaning” features can help prevent this problem.

Otherwise, give them periodic attention by using cold water on them after cooking fatty foods like steak or bacon. One may also consider replacing any plastic parts like splash guards if they’re cracked or broken due to age/use. 

The best way is trial and error because different people have different needs depending on their plumbing layout.

The majority of debris should pass through the disposal promptly. However, if food particles take an excessively long time to break down in the garbage disposal, the blades may need to be sharpened or replaced.

Water may seep through the sections of the disposal’s connection to the rest of the plumbing system over time. The majority of times, when the disposal becomes large enough to be noticeable, it will have to be replaced entirely.

Why Would Garbage Disposals Last So Long?

It’s important to note that disposals last a long time because they are low-maintenance appliances. They don’t require much in the way of upkeep or repairs, and if something does go wrong, there is a warranty for them. 

In addition, garbage disposals run on relatively slow cycles, which means they do not generate high levels of heat or electricity – two common causes of kitchen appliance failure. Finally, many modern models have been designed with warranties against breakage due to overloading or overheating at the hands of an overly enthusiastic user.

The lifespan of garbage disposal varies depending on the type and model. It is between five and ten years, but some people have had disposals that lasted up to fifteen years without any problems. 

There are several benefits to installing a garbage disposal in one’s home. Some of the best benefits include: 

  1. Reduced landfill waste – A garbage disposal can help reduce the amount of trash that goes into landfills, better for the environment. 
  2. Reduced stress on septic systems – When food waste isn’t disposed of properly, it can stress septic systems. A garbage disposal can take care of food waste quickly and easily, so one doesn’t have to worry about it. 
  3. Convenience – A garbage disposal makes it easy to get rid of food waste without leaving one’s home or going through the hassle of taking the trash out.

Conclusion

The most common reason for a disposal’s failure is when it gets clogged from food particles or grease getting caught in its blades. 

However, there are ways one can extend the old unit’s life by using them correctly (such as rotating with other dishes) and taking care of it; this will help prevent damage done by wear and tear over time.

Garbage disposals give off foul odors due to wet food decomposition. However, these scents should be resolved by simple and thorough rinsing or cleaning. If nothing seems to work, one may require professional assistance. The plumber can easily find what is wrong with the appliance and remove trapped particles.

References

  1. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0022318275800628 
  2. https://www.taylorfrancis.com/chapters/edit/10.4324/9780203185100-9/integrated-archaeology-garbage-paradigm-william-rathje 
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Here at the EHL, it's all about delicious, easy recipes for casual entertaining. So come and join me at the beach, relax and enjoy the food.

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