Installing a garbage disposal is not just about swapping units – it’s a full-service process that Rocketship Plumbing handles from start to finish.

Our team will first inspect your existing setup and safely disconnect and remove the old disposal unit (including the mounting assembly and any attached drain pipes). We take care to turn off power and water before work begins for maximum safety.

After removal, we properly dispose of the old unit for you.

Next, we install the new garbage disposal of your choice. This includes mounting a fresh sink flange and mounting assembly sealed with plumber’s putty for a watertight fit .

We then attach the new disposal to the mount, connect it to your sink’s drain P-trap and discharge pipe, and hook up the dishwasher drain line if applicable (making sure to remove the dishwasher inlet plug and secure all connections).

Our plumbers will also handle the electrical connection – plugging the unit into an outlet or wiring it to a power supply as needed, all up to code . Finally, we test the new disposal thoroughly, running water and turning it on to check for leaks or vibrations, and ensure everything is grinding and draining properly .

Estimated Installation Time: In most cases, a standard garbage disposal replacement can be completed in just a couple of hours by a professional . The exact time may vary depending on your kitchen’s plumbing configuration and whether any modifications are needed, but Rocketship Plumbing works efficiently to minimize disruption. You’ll have a new, working disposal before you know it!

By choosing Rocketship Plumbing for your installation, you also get expert guidance on selecting the right unit for your needs.

We install all major disposal brands and models – from compact 1/3 HP units to powerful 1 HP models – and we’ll ensure your new disposal is a perfect fit for your sink and usage requirements.

Our service is fully turnkey: we supply the unit (if you prefer), handle installation and old unit removal, and leave your kitchen clean and ready to use.

A garbage disposal is an electrically powered device mounted under your kitchen sink that grinds food waste into fine particles so it can safely wash down the drain. Unlike a blender, a disposal doesn’t have sharp blades; instead, it uses a combination of impellers and a grinding ring to break down food:

• Motor and Grinding Plate: At the base of the unit is an electric motor (usually ranging from 1/3 horsepower up to 1 HP) that spins a grinding plate (flywheel) at high speed when you turn the disposal on .

• Impellers: Attached to the plate are two or more metal impellers (also called lugs). As they spin, they use centrifugal force to push food scraps outward.

• Shredder Ring: Lining the inside of the disposal chamber is a stationary shredder ring with sharp grooves/teeth. The impellers force the food waste against this ring, effectively grinding it into tiny particles – similar to a cheese grater action .

• Grinding and Flushing: The food waste is pulverized into bits small enough to flow with water. Continuous cold water flow is used during operation to help flush the ground particles out of the disposal and into the drain pipe . The resulting fine slurry goes through your kitchen drain plumbing into the sewer or septic system.

• Discharge and Trap: The disposal’s outlet is connected to the sink’s drain pipe (and P-trap). The P-trap is the U-shaped pipe that catches debris and prevents sewer gases from coming back up. In a single-sink setup, the disposal connects directly to the P-trap; in a double-sink configuration, the disposal’s discharge pipe usually joins a horizontal tailpiece from the other sink basin before entering a shared trap.

Overall, a garbage disposal makes kitchen cleanup easier and helps prevent large food scraps from clogging your pipes.

Modern disposals are designed with safety and efficiency in mind, but understanding how they work can help you use them properly and notice when something isn’t functioning right.

Garbage disposals come in two main types: continuous feed and batch feed.

Rocketship Plumbing installs and services both types, and we can advise which is best for your home:

1. Continuous Feed Disposals: This is the most common type. A continuous feed disposal runs continuously when switched on, allowing you to keep adding waste while it runs . It’s controlled by a wall switch (or air switch on the countertop) and will grind waste as long as you leave it on.

• Pros: convenient and faster for handling large amounts of waste (ideal for busy kitchens or big families).
• Cons: the open mouth while running means you must be careful – there’s a higher risk of foreign objects falling in or accidental operation when not sealed . Most residential disposals are continuous feed.

2. Batch Feed Disposals: A batch feed model is activated by inserting a special stopper or cover and turning it, which turns the unit on. You load a batch of food waste, seal the disposal with its cover, and then it grinds the batch . Because the unit only runs when the cover is locked in place, it’s considered safer – no items (or hands) can enter while it’s operating.

• Pros: excellent safety and no need for a separate wall switch; also often quieter.
• Cons: you must grind waste in batches with the stopper in place, which is slightly less convenient if you have a lot of waste, and batch feed units tend to be a bit more expensive and less common .

Most homeowners opt for continuous feed disposals for their convenience.

However, if safety is a top concern (for example, you have young children), a batch feed disposal is a smart choice.

We can install either type and will ensure the unit is set up with the proper switch or stopper mechanism.

Before deciding to replace your garbage disposal, it’s worth checking if a simple fix can get it running again.

Here are some basic troubleshooting steps you can try when your disposal is not working or making an unusual sound:

• Check for Power Supply: If the disposal won’t turn on at all – no hum, no noise – it might be an electrical issue. Make sure it’s plugged in (if it uses a cord). Then check the circuit breaker or GFCI outlet that serves the disposal; if tripped, reset it . Often, a disposal that suddenly stops has simply tripped the circuit or GFCI outlet.

• Press the Reset Button: Most units have a small red reset button on the bottom. Turn off the disposal switch, then press this reset button (it pops out when tripped). If it was tripped due to an overload, pressing it in can restore power . After resetting, try the switch again to see if it runs.

• Clear a Jam: If you hear a humming sound when you flip the switch, but the disposal isn’t grinding, it’s likely jammed. Do not stick your hand inside! First, turn off the disposal and unplug it (or ensure the breaker is off). Most disposals come with an offset Allen wrench that fits in a hex slot on the bottom of the unit. Insert the wrench and manually turn it back and forth to free the stuck flywheel . You can also use a wooden spoon handle inserted from above to try to dislodge whatever is stuck (again, power off for safety) . Often a small bone or foreign object is jamming the impeller. Use pliers or tongs to remove any visible debris from the grind chamber . After clearing a jam, restore power and hit the reset button before testing the switch again .

• Check for Clogs: If the disposal runs (you hear the motor) but water is draining slowly, you might have a clog in the disposal or drain pipe. Over time, grease or fibrous waste can clog the P-trap or pipe leading out of the disposal . Try running the disposal with plenty of water to see if it clears. If not, you may need to disconnect the trap and clear it, or use a plunger on the sink. This can be messy – you may want to call our plumbers to safely clear stubborn clogs.

• Look for Leaks: If you find water under your sink, inspect the disposal. Common leak points are the sink flange, the dishwasher inlet, or the discharge drainpipe connection . A loose mounting bolt or worn gasket can cause leaks. If the leak is coming from the bottom of the unit (case seal), that often means the disposal has internally failed and needs replacement. Minor leaks at connections can sometimes be fixed by tightening screws or replacing a gasket, but be cautious – always turn off power before investigating leaks on your disposal.

If you’ve tried the above and the disposal is still dead or problematic, do not persist with forcing it. A humming motor that doesn’t spin can overheat and burn out its internal circuitry if left on too long. At this point, it’s best to call a professional plumber.

Rocketship Plumbing can diagnose the issue and advise if the unit can be repaired or if it’s time for a new disposal. Never attempt to disassemble the disposal’s motor or grind components yourself – these repairs require expertise. Our team can safely address the problem and either fix the disposal or install a new one if needed.

How do you know when a garbage disposal is beyond repair and due for replacement?

Here are some clear signs of a failing garbage disposal to watch for:

• Frequent Resets or Stalling: If you find yourself hitting the reset button often, or the unit frequently trips the breaker or stalls, the motor may be wearing out. An aging disposal that struggles and overheats regularly is a candidate for replacement .

• Slow Drainage and Frequent Clogs: A disposal that constantly clogs or causes slow draining, despite your best maintenance efforts, may have dulled grinding components . When the blades (impellers) wear down, they can’t chop waste finely, leading to clogs. Occasional clogs can be cleared, but if it’s a chronic issue, the disposal’s performance is likely deteriorating.

• Persistent Foul Odors: It’s normal for a disposal to have some odor, but you should be able to clean it and eliminate smells. If you notice bad smells that persist even after cleaning and rinsing, it could mean food residue is trapped in places you can’t reach or the interior of the unit is decaying . Older disposals can accumulate grime in crevices or have bacterial growth, leading to constant odor – a new unit might be the only cure.

• Leaks or Physical Damage: As mentioned, if your disposal is leaking water, especially from the bottom or at the motor housing, the internal seals may have failed or the casing is cracked . Given the mess and potential water damage, replacing the unit is usually more cost-effective than attempting an internal seal repair on a 10-year-old unit. Similarly, any exterior rusting or corrosion is a bad sign.

• Unusual Noises or Metal Grinding: If you hear metal-on-metal grinding, rattling, or screeching noises when the disposal runs (and you’re sure no utensil is in there), it indicates something is wrong internally . Components like the impeller blades or bearings may have broken or come loose. This not only sounds awful but means the disposal’s days are numbered – broken parts can cause jams and further damage.

• Age Over 10–12 Years: Lastly, consider the age. The average garbage disposal lasts about 10 to 12 years with normal use . If yours is in that age range (or older) and is acting up, you’ve gotten good use out of it. Instead of paying for a major repair on an old unit, it often makes sense to invest in a new disposal. Newer models will be more efficient, quieter, and come with fresh warranties.

If you recognize any of these symptoms, it’s likely time to consider a new garbage disposal.

Rocketship Plumbing can help you confirm the diagnosis – we’ll inspect your unit and give honest advice. If a repair is feasible and cost-effective, we’ll do it. But if replacement is the better choice, we’ll recommend some new disposal options that fit your home and budget.

Often, putting the money toward a new, upgraded disposal (with a full warranty) is wiser than patching up an old, unreliable unit.

Garbage disposals are durable appliances, but they aren’t indestructible.

Understanding what causes disposals to fail can help you avoid those issues. Here are some top causes of garbage disposal damage or failure:

• Misuse and Hard Objects: Disposals are designed for food scraps only. Hard items like large animal bones, fruit pits, seafood shells, or non-food objects (silverware, glass) can jam or damage the impellers and grind ring. Even extremely fibrous foods (corn husks, artichoke leaves, celery stalks) can tangle or clog the mechanism . For instance, drop a heavy metal utensil in while running, and you can significantly harm the unit. Avoiding hard, non-food items is key to preventing mechanical damage.

• Grease and Fat Buildup: Pouring grease, oils, or fatty substances down the disposal can coat the grind chamber and pipes. Over time, congealed grease narrows the discharge passage and causes stubborn clogs . It can also make the shredder less effective as everything gets sludged up. Always dispose of cooking grease in the trash (or a container) instead of the drain.

• Overloading and No Water: Cramming too much food into the disposal at once, or running it without sufficient water flow, can overload the motor and cause it to overheat or jam. Disposals need water to help flush ground particles out; without water, ground food can cake up inside. Always run cold water during and for a few seconds after disposal use to carry waste through the pipes . And feed larger quantities of scraps gradually, rather than all at once, to avoid straining the unit.

• Wear and Tear over Time: Like any appliance, disposals suffer from general wear. The impeller lugs can dull, the motor can weaken, and gaskets can wear out or crack (leading to leaks) . If a disposal isn’t used for long periods, internal components might even rust or seize up. Regular use and maintenance help, but after a decade or more, parts may simply fail due to age.

• Lack of Maintenance/Cleaning: Neglecting to ever clean your disposal can allow buildup of food debris in the grind chamber. This causes odors and can impede the mechanism. It can also encourage corrosion if acidic food scraps sit inside. As a result, a poorly maintained disposal might need replacement much sooner. In fact, chronic neglect or abuse can kill a disposal in just a few years, far short of its normal lifespan.

Prevention: The good news is that most of these issues are preventable with some simple habits.

(Below are some basic care tips to keep your garbage disposal in top shape.)

• Use Plenty of Cold Water: Always run cold water while the disposal is on, and for 10-15 seconds after it finishes grinding. Cold water solidifies any fats or grease so they get chopped up and flushed out, instead of coating your pipes . (Hot water can melt fats and cause them to stick inside the unit, so use hot only during periodic cleaning, not during grinding.)

• Mind What You Grind: Avoid hard, fibrous, or stringy waste that the disposal can’t handle well. Small chicken or fish bones are generally okay (many disposals can handle them in moderation), but large beef or pork bones, fruit pits, and shellfish shells are too hard – throw those in the trash. Likewise, put fibrous peels and husks (onion skins, corn husks, celery, artichokes) in the compost or trash, as they can wrap around the shredder. When in doubt, toss it out instead of grinding. And never put non-food materials into the disposal.

• Feed in Small Batches: Don’t overload the disposal with a huge amount of waste in one go. If you have a lot of leftovers to grind, feed them gradually. Scrape plates a little at a time or break up large pieces. This prevents strain on the motor and avoids clogs by giving the disposal time to do its work .

• Keep It Clean: About once a week (or as needed), clean your disposal to remove grime and prevent odors. An easy method is to pour 1/2 cup of baking soda into the drain, then 1 cup of vinegar – let it fizz for 5-10 minutes, then rinse with hot water. Alternatively, grind a tray of ice cubes in the disposal (with a little cold water running). The ice helps scrape off buildup inside . For freshness, you can add a few citrus peels (lemon or orange) while grinding the ice – this cleans and deodorizes the unit naturally . Avoid harsh chemical drain cleaners in your disposal; they can damage the unit.

• Run it Regularly: Even if you don’t need to grind food often, turn the disposal on with running water periodically (say, every few days) . Regular operation prevents the moving parts from seizing up and helps keep everything from rusting. A disposal that sits idle for weeks with water in it can develop corrosion or freeze up. So give it a quick spin now and then if not used often.

By following these care tips, you’ll greatly extend the life of your garbage disposal and keep it running smoothly.

However, if you do encounter issues or suspect your disposal is damaged, don’t hesitate to contact Rocketship Plumbing.

We can perform a professional check-up, clear any clogs, replace worn gaskets, or install a new unit if needed.

When you call Rocketship Plumbing for a garbage disposal installation or replacement, you can expect a thorough, step-by-step process handled by experienced plumbing technicians.

We prioritize safety, quality, and efficiency at every stage. Here’s an overview of how we carry out a typical garbage disposal replacement:

• Power Off for Safety: We begin by turning off the electrical power to your existing disposal at the breaker and unplugging the unit (if it has a plug) . We also turn off the water supply valve to the kitchen sink to avoid any accidental leaks during the process.

• Remove Old Unit and Hardware: Our plumber will disconnect the drain pipes attached to the old disposal and carefully unmount the old disposal unit from the sink. We loosen the mounting ring and detach the unit from the sink flange. We also remove the old mounting assembly (sink flange, bracket, and gasket), especially if the new disposal comes with its own assembly . Any excess plumber’s putty from the old flange is cleaned off to ensure a fresh start.

• Install New Sink Flange and Mount: We apply fresh plumber’s putty to the new sink flange (the part where the disposal meets the sink drain) and insert it into the drain hole. Under the sink, we attach the new mounting ring and bolts, tightening everything to create a secure, leak-proof sealThis assembly holds the weight of the disposal, so we make sure it’s firmly in place and the sink flange is properly sealed against the sink.

• Mount the New Disposal: Now the new garbage disposal unit is hung on the mounting assembly.We align the disposer’s mounting collar with the sink mount and twist it until it locks into the bracket (different brands have different locking mechanisms, but we’re familiar with all of them) . The unit is supported and hand-tightened in place. We make sure it’s oriented correctly, especially in relation to the drain pipe and dishwasher inlet.

• Reattach Plumbing Connections: With the disposal mounted, we connect the discharge pipe (the pipe that carries waste from the disposal into the drain trap). We often reuse the existing tubular pipe or use a new one if provided. It’s attached to the disposal’s outlet and secured with a flange or retaining clamp. The other end goes into the P-trap under the sink. If a dishwasher is present, we connect its drain hose to the disposal’s inlet nipple, securing it with a clamp (after knocking out the inlet plug inside the disposal) . We double-check that all connections – including the sink flange, the dishwasher hose, and the trap – are tight and properly aligned to prevent leaks.

• Connect or Wire the Power: Most disposals plug into an outlet under the sink. If your new unit has a pre-installed power cord, we plug it in. If it doesn’t (some models are hard-wired), our plumber will make the electrical connection. This involves connecting the disposal’s wires to the circuit wires (usually inside a small junction box on the unit) with wire nuts, following electrical codes . We ensure the circuit is dedicated and properly grounded. (If no suitable electrical connection is available under your sink, we can advise on installing an outlet or having an electrician provide a connection.)

• Test and Inspect: With everything in place, we restore water supply and power to the disposal. Now we rigorously test the new disposal. We run the water, turn on the disposal, and let it grind some test material (like ice) to observe its operation. While it’s running, we are under the sink checking for any leaks at all connections and ensuring the unit runs smoothly without excessive vibration. We also test the dishwasher connection (if applicable) to ensure no backflow or leaks occur when the dishwasher drains. This final check is crucial for quality control .

• Customer Education: Lastly, we make sure you are familiar with your new disposal’s operation. We’ll review how to use it, point out where the reset button is, and share any brand-specific tips (some models have anti-jam features or require registration for warranty). We also provide some of the maintenance tips mentioned earlier so you can keep your disposal running its best.

Throughout the installation, Rocketship Plumbing treats your home with respect.

We use drop clothes, or towels under the sink to catch any water spillage, and we clean up thoroughly when the job is done. We’ll take the old disposal unit with us (unless you prefer to keep it) and ensure any old parts or debris are disposed of.

By following this detailed process, we guarantee a properly installed, leak-free, and safe garbage disposal.

A correct installation not only gives you immediate peace of mind but also helps your new unit last longer. Improper mounting or misaligned pipes can lead to stress on the disposal or future leaks – that’s why it’s best to have our professional plumbers handle the job from the start.

Rocketship Plumbing can install all major garbage disposal brands and we often recommend units from the top manufacturers in the industry. Different brands have different features, warranties, and price points.

Here’s an overview of the leading brands and why they’re popular choices:

InSinkErator: InSinkErator is the original garbage disposal brand (they invented the device) and remains the industry leader. These disposals are known for their reliability and innovative features. InSinkErator offers models in several series (Standard, Power, and Quiet series), with motors ranging from 1/3 HP to 1 HP. Higher-end models include features like MultiGrind® technology (multiple grinding stages to handle tough foods) and SoundSeal® insulation for ultra-quiet operation. A big selling point of InSinkErator is their excellent in-home warranties – for example, Standard series models carry 1 to 3-year warranties, mid-range Power series have 4 to 7-year warranties, and top-line Quiet series come with 8 to 10-year warranties . This “We Come to You” in-home warranty means if the unit has an issue within the warranty period, an authorized technician comes to your home to fix or replace it at no cost . InSinkErator units are also proudly assembled in the USA and built to last.

We commonly install models like the Badger series (a cost-effective choice) and the Evolution series (premium performance and quietness).

Waste King: Waste King is another top manufacturer, famed for their powerful yet affordable disposals. Waste King units typically use high-speed Vortex permanent magnet motors (e.g. 2,600 RPM or more) which achieve fast grinding and help reduce jamming. They offer models from 1/3 HP to 1 HP that often cost a bit less than comparable InSinkErator models, making them great value. Many Waste King disposals feature easy mounting systems (like the EZ Mount) which can make installation quicker. Notably, Waste King provides some of the longest warranties in the business – for instance, a mid-grade Waste King might have a 5-year in-home warranty plus a lifetime warranty against corrosion, and their top model has been advertised with a lifetime limited in-home warranty for the original purchaser . (In some cases, recent warranty terms are around 8 to 10 years or even up to 20 years on certain models – still far above industry norm .) These long warranties reflect the brand’s confidence in durability. Waste King disposals also tend to be compact and lightweight, and many include sound insulation for quieter operation. We often recommend Waste King for customers who want a strong warranty and great performance at a reasonable price.

Moen: Known primarily for faucets and sinks, Moen has in recent years become a respected name in garbage disposals as well. Moen’s disposal line combines the company’s plumbing expertise with modern disposal technology. All Moen disposals use their VORTEX™ permanent magnet motors, which spin at high RPM to finely grind food waste and help reduce jamming . They come in 1/3, 1/2, 3/4, and 1 HP sizes under series names like Lite, Prep, Host, and Chef – each designed for a level of usage (from light duty to enthusiast cooks). Many Moen models include SoundSHIELD™ insulation for noise reduction, and some higher models even have unique features like integrated LED lighting under the sink. A great feature of Moen disposals is their Universal Xpress Mount, which is compatible with the standard 3-bolt mounting brackets used by many other brands . This often allows an easier swap-in replacement. Moen’s warranties are also very robust: 1/3 HP and 1/2 HP models carry a 5-year limited warranty, while 3/4 HP and 1 HP models carry a 10-year limited warranty – all with in-home service for warranty claims.

This gives Moen owners long-term peace of mind. We find Moen disposals to be quiet, efficient, and user-friendly, and they’ve become a popular choice for many of our customers.

Other Brands: In addition to the above three, we can also install other brands like KitchenAid (known for very high build quality, as some models are made by InSinkErator with slight differences) and GE disposals, among others.

However, InSinkErator, Waste King, and Moen cover the vast majority of the market needs and have proven track records. If you have a specific unit in mind, just let us know – we’ll work with whatever disposal you prefer.

Not sure which brand or model to choose? Don’t worry – our experts will help you compare and select the ideal garbage disposal for your kitchen.

We consider factors like your household size, typical usage, whether noise is a concern, and your budget. For instance, if you’re looking for an ultra-quiet unit for a home where you entertain often, an InSinkErator Evolution Series or Moen Chef Series might be recommended. If you just need a basic, reliable disposal for a rental property, a Waste King Legend Series could be perfect.

We’ll also ensure compatibility with your sink (e.g. disposals come in standard sizes that fit most sinks, but if you have a small space under the sink, we’ll pick a compact model).

With Rocketship Plumbing, you’ll get honest advice on the pros and cons of each option, and we’ll supply the unit if you don’t already have one. Our goal is to install a disposal that you’ll be happy with for years to come.

A properly functioning garbage disposal makes kitchen cleanup easy and keeps your plumbing clear of excess food waste. Whether you’re dealing with a broken unit that needs replacement or you want to upgrade to a more powerful, quieter model, Rocketship Plumbing is here to help. We specialize in garbage disposal installation in Gwinnett County – including Duluth, Suwanee, Peachtree Corners, Buford, Sugar Hill, Grayson, Snellville, and all nearby communities. Our team delivers prompt, professional service backed by quality workmanship and customer satisfaction.

Don’t let a noisy, leaky, or non-working garbage disposal cause you stress. We make the process of getting a new disposal hassle-free – from helping you choose the right unit to installing it with expert care. We’ll ensure your new kitchen sink disposal runs smoothly, so you can wash dishes and prep food with confidence. We also stand by our installations; should any issue arise, we’ll be there to make it right.

Ready to enjoy the convenience of a new garbage disposal? Have questions about various models or our pricing?

Contact Rocketship Plumbing today for a free estimate.

We’ll provide a no-obligation quote and answer all your questions about our garbage disposal installation service.

You can schedule your free estimate by visiting our Contact Us page or by giving us a call at 770-676-1685.

Take the first step toward a better kitchen clean-up experience – reach out to Rocketship Plumbing, your local experts for garbage disposal installation and repair.

We’ll get your kitchen back on track with a disposal you can rely on, all for a great price.

Get in touch now and let us launch you toward a kitchen upgrade

with a brand-new garbage disposal!