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Garbage Disposal Repair & Replacement in The Woodlands, TX

Is your garbage disposal humming, leaking, or won’t turn on? Learn how to fix common issues—or when it’s time for a replacement. Serving The Woodlands, TX.
Garbage Disposal Repair & Replacement: Should I Fix It or Replace It?
As a handyman here in The Woodlands, TX, I’ve worked on plenty of garbage disposals, and I know how frustrating it can be when yours suddenly stops working. Whether it’s humming, leaking, or just won’t turn on at all, the big question is: Can I fix this, or do I need to replace it?
In this post, I’ll walk you through the common problems I see, how I troubleshoot them, and when it’s time to replace your garbage disposal.
Common Garbage Disposal Problems (That I Can Often Fix)
Before jumping to a replacement, there are a few things I always check first:
1. It’s Humming but Not Grinding
If your garbage disposal makes a humming sound but doesn’t spin, it’s probably jammed. Most of the time, it’s something like a utensil or food scrap stuck in the blades.
What I Do:
I shut off the power, unplug the unit, and use an ¼” hex wrench to manually rotate the blades from the bottom. Some units don’t have a place to do this (e.g., Moen and WasteKing). If you have one of those units, you can try unjamming it from the top with a wooden spoon. Once the jam is cleared, I press the reset button (usually on the bottom, but sometimes it’s on the side) and test it again. I have a short video on my home page here.
2. It Won’t Turn On
If your disposal won’t make a sound, the reset button probably tripped, but it could be a power issue.
My Process:
First I check it for jams (see above). Then press the reset button. That will solve most problems. But it it doesn't, check your circuit breaker, and test the outlet. If there is power at the outlet, but the unit still isn't working, the motor may have burned out.
3. It’s Leaking
Leaks can come from the sink flange, dishwasher connection, or the drain pipe.
What I Check:
Sometimes it’s a loose fitting or worn gasket. But if the unit is leaking from multiple areas or the body itself, I’ll recommend replacing it.
When I Recommend Replacing Your Garbage Disposal
Here are a few signs that it’s time to install a new garbage disposal:
- You’re resetting it frequently
- There’s a persistent smell you can’t clean out
- It’s making loud grinding or rattling noises
- It’s more than 8 years old
- It clogs or jams often
When these issues start piling up, replacing the unit usually makes more sense—and saves you money in the long run.
Need Help with Garbage Disposal Repair in The Woodlands, TX?
Whether your unit needs a simple reset or a full replacement, I’m here to help. I provide honest, professional garbage disposal repair and replacement services right here in The Woodlands, TX, and surrounding areas.
I’ll take a look, explain your options, and make sure your kitchen gets back to working like it should—no pressure or upsells.
Call or text today to book your appointment.
I’m always just a message away.
– Adam Taylor the Handyman
TDLR #894
Proudly serving The Woodlands, TX
