Best Garbage Disposal Service Companies in Florida Ranked

A functional garbage disposal is a key component of a modern Florida kitchen, providing a convenient way to manage food waste. When your unit malfunctions or needs an upgrade, understanding your options for repair or new installation is essential. This guide outlines the key considerations, costs, and processes involved, helping you make informed decisions and connect with qualified local professionals for your project.

Kingdom Based Plumbing

450-106 State Rd 13 N #172, Fruit Cove, FL 32259

Kingdom Based Plumbing is a licensed and insured plumbing service located in Jacksonville, FL. They provide a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing solutions including sewer camera inspections, water heater repair and installation, drain cleaning, sewer line repair, leak detection, repiping, toilet repair, and garbage disposal repair. The company uses specialized camera technology to inspect pipes and offers 24/7 emergency plumbing services across Jacksonville and nearby areas. They also handle insurance-related plumbing work and provide bilingual support in English and Spanish.

5.0

922 Reviews

Premier Rooter Plumbing and Drain Services

2996 Lahlor Ln, Palm Harbor, FL 34684

Premier Rooter Plumbing and Drain Services is a full-service plumbing company serving Tampa, FL. They offer a wide range of services including leak detection, water heater installation and repair, drain cleaning, sewer line repair, sump pump repair, toilet and faucet installation and repair, as well as garbage disposal services. Using advanced technology, they specialize in pinpointing hidden leaks and provide expert sewer line inspections and repairs to maintain efficient plumbing systems. Their team also handles outdoor and pool plumbing repairs, ensuring comprehensive coverage for residential plumbing needs in the area.

5.0

392 Reviews

Johnson Family Plumbing & Drain Cleaning

st petersburg

Johnson Family Plumbing & Drain Cleaning offers plumbing services in St Petersburg, FL, including water heater repair and installation, drain cleaning, and garbage disposal repair. They handle a range of plumbing issues and provide clear explanations of the work needed. The company is known for scheduling timely appointments and completing thorough repairs, including replacing shut-off valves and fixing hose bibs. They respond to emergency calls and provide estimates upfront to help customers understand potential costs.

5.0

214 Reviews

Plumbgreat Plumbing LLC

4315 Aegean Dr APT 256C, Tampa, FL 33611

Plumbgreat Plumbing LLC is a plumbing service provider based in Tampa, FL. They offer a range of services including water heater repair and installation, water softener installation, drain cleaning, leak detection, toilet repair, and garbage disposal repair. The company uses advanced technology for drain clearing and provides solutions for hard water issues common in the Tampa area. They also handle faucet repairs and installations, as well as water filtration system setups. Plumbgreat Plumbing LLC is known for thorough inspections and professional installations, including water heaters and water softeners. Their approach includes complete cleanup and protective measures during service visits.

5.0

147 Reviews

Sparky Plumbing

4839 Pembroke Rd, Hollywood, FL 33021

Sparky Plumbing provides a wide range of plumbing services in Miami, FL, serving both residential and commercial clients. Their offerings include sewer camera inspections, water heater installation and repair, drain cleaning, leak detection, repiping, gas line installation, and fixture upgrades. They specialize in trenchless sewer repair and use advanced tools for sewer line inspection and repairs to minimize disruption. Sparky Plumbing also offers 24/7 emergency plumbing services to address urgent issues at any time.

5.0

133 Reviews

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Understanding Garbage Disposal Types and Features

Choosing the right disposal unit depends on your household's habits, safety preferences, and budget. The two primary operating styles are continuous feed and batch feed models.

Continuous feed disposals are the most common type. They operate as long as the power switch is on, allowing you to scrape waste continuously while the unit runs. This design is convenient for frequent use but is considered less safe as the open drain is exposed while operating ^{1 2}.

Batch feed disposals offer enhanced safety. They require a special stopper or lid to be in place and locked before the unit will turn on. This prevents accidental operation and keeps objects from falling into the grinding chamber. They are an excellent choice for households with children or for those prioritizing safety ^{3 4}.

Another critical factor is motor power, measured in horsepower (HP). This determines the unit's capability and price.

• 1/3 to 1/2 HP: Suitable for light use, such as in a small household or vacation home.
• 1/2 to 3/4 HP: The standard choice for most families, capable of handling typical food scraps.
• 3/4 to 1 HP and above: Designed for heavy use or larger households. Higher horsepower models can handle tougher items and are less likely to jam, but they come at a higher cost ^{1 2 4}.

Many modern units also feature sound insulation or anti-vibration technology to reduce operational noise, which can be a worthwhile investment for open-concept kitchens.

Key Considerations Before Installation or Replacement

A successful garbage disposal project involves more than just the appliance itself. Proper plumbing and electrical setup are foundational.

Plumbing Requirements: The disposal must connect securely to your sink's drain outlet and the P-trap. It also needs a connection for a dishwasher drain hose, if applicable. The existing sink must have a compatible flange, and the drain lines must be correctly sized and vented. In some cases, installing a new disposal may require modifying the P-trap or drain line to ensure a proper fit and prevent leaks ^{5 6 7}.

Electrical Requirements: Garbage disposals require a dedicated electrical circuit. There must be an approved outlet under the sink, typically a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlet for safety. Many older Florida homes lack this setup. If an outlet is not present, a licensed electrician must install one, which adds to the project's overall scope and cost. Never attempt to wire a disposal directly into household wiring without a proper outlet ^{5 7 8}.

Assessing Your Needs: Before calling a professional, check a few basics. Ensure the unit is plugged in and that the circuit breaker hasn't tripped. For a replacement, note the make, model, and horsepower of your current unit, and measure the space under your sink. Knowing whether you have a batch or continuous feed model will also help in discussions with your service provider.

Repair vs. Replacement: Making the Cost-Effective Choice

When your disposal fails, the first decision is whether to repair it or replace it entirely. The choice often comes down to the age of the unit, the nature of the problem, and the associated costs.

Common Repairs: Many issues are fixable. These include clearing jams caused by foreign objects, resetting the unit (using a red button on the bottom), fixing minor leaks from the sink flange or drain connections, or replacing worn parts like the splash guard or mounting assembly. The cost for these minor repairs in Florida typically ranges from $70 to $250 ^{9 10}.

When Replacement is Advised: If the disposal's motor burns out, the grinding chamber is cracked, or the unit is excessively old (typically over 8-10 years), replacement is usually more economical than a major repair. Motor replacement alone can cost $300 to $450 or more, which often approaches or exceeds the price of a new, more efficient unit ^{9 11 12}. Newer models are also more energy-efficient and quieter.

A professional can provide a diagnosis. If the repair cost exceeds 50% of the price of a comparable new unit, replacement is generally the recommended path ¹².

Breakdown of Costs in Florida

Understanding the cost components helps you budget effectively. Prices in Florida can vary based on local labor rates, the complexity of the installation, and the unit's features.

Garbage Disposal Repair Costs: For minor fixes like clearing a jam or resetting the unit, expect to pay between $100 and $250 for a professional service call ⁹. Major repairs, such as replacing a motor or fixing significant internal components, can range from $300 to $450 or more ^{9 13}.

Garbage Disposal Replacement Costs: The total cost has two parts: the unit and the labor for installation.

• Unit-Only Cost: A basic model starts around $80, while high-end units with more horsepower and noise reduction features can cost $500 or more ^{1 11}.
• Installation Labor: Professional installation of a standard replacement (where no new plumbing or electrical is needed) typically adds $120 to $250 to the project ^{5 8}.

Therefore, a full replacement project in Florida often falls between $200 and $600+ for a mid-range unit with straightforward installation ^{9 11 13}. It's important to get a detailed quote, as this range can increase significantly if new electrical wiring or outlet installation is required, potentially pushing total costs over $1,000 ^{5 8}.

The Professional Installation Process

Hiring a licensed professional ensures the job is done safely and to code, which is crucial for both plumbing and electrical work. Here's what a standard installation entails:

1. Assessment and Preparation: The technician will assess the under-sink area, check for an adequate electrical outlet, and confirm the plumbing configuration. They will turn off power and water supplies.
2. Removal of Old Unit: They will disconnect the drain pipes and electrical connection, then un-mount and remove the old disposal.
3. Sink Flange Preparation: The new mounting assembly and sink flange are installed, ensuring a watertight seal.
4. Mounting the New Disposal: The new unit is lifted into place, attached to the mounting assembly, and properly aligned.
5. Reconnecting Plumbing: The dishwasher drain hose (if present) is connected, and the drain pipes (P-trap) are reattached.
6. Electrical Connection: The disposal is plugged into the dedicated GFCI outlet. If a new outlet is needed, this will be performed by a qualified electrician.
7. Testing and Cleanup: The power is restored, and the unit is tested with cold water running. The area is cleaned up, and the technician will often provide brief operating instructions.

A professional installation guarantees that the disposal is secure, leak-free, and connected to a safe power source, giving you peace of mind ^{6 2 14}.

Maintenance Tips for Longevity

Proper care can extend the life of your garbage disposal and prevent common problems.

• Always run cold water before, during, and for about 30 seconds after using the disposal. Cold water solidifies grease, allowing it to be chopped up and flushed away, whereas hot water can melt grease and cause clogs downstream ^{10 14}.
• Avoid putting certain items down the disposal, including fibrous vegetables (celery, onion skins), grease/oils, coffee grounds, eggshells, bones, and pasta/rice which can expand.
• Clean it regularly by grinding a few ice cubes to help scour the blades, or using a mild soap and cold water rinse. Avoid harsh chemical drain cleaners.
• Know how to safely clear a jam. First, ensure the power is OFF. Many models have a hex socket on the bottom that can be turned with an Allen wrench to manually rotate the impellers and dislodge an object ^{9 6}.

Frequently asked questions

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