Best Garbage Disposal Service Companies in Illinois Ranked

A functional garbage disposal is a key component of a modern, efficient kitchen. When it jams, leaks, or stops working entirely, it disrupts daily routines and can lead to unpleasant odors or plumbing issues. Understanding your options for repair or a new installation helps you make an informed decision, whether you're dealing with a sudden breakdown or planning a kitchen upgrade. This guide provides a clear overview of what to expect with garbage disposal services in Illinois, from costs and types of units to when to call a professional, helping you connect with qualified local experts for the job.

Legendary Service

960 Rand Rd Suite 200F, Des Plaines, IL 60016

Legendary Service is a plumbing and home comfort provider serving Chicago, IL. They offer a range of services including water heater repair and installation, water softener installation, drain cleaning, repiping, toilet repair, and garbage disposal repair. With over 40 years of combined experience, their licensed team handles plumbing and HVAC needs with thoroughness and professionalism. They also provide indoor air quality solutions and maintenance plans to support ongoing home system care.

5.0

278 Reviews

Drain & Plumbing Services

3663 Woodhead Dr, Northbrook, IL 60062

Drain & Plumbing Services offers a wide range of plumbing and drain cleaning solutions in Chicago, IL, including water heater repair and installation, tankless water heaters, leak detection, toilet and garbage disposal repairs, and hydro jetting. Their team uses advanced technology such as sewer camera inspections and hydro jetting equipment to diagnose and resolve plumbing issues efficiently. Serving both residential and commercial clients, they provide comprehensive services tailored to local infrastructure needs. The company also offers 24/7 emergency plumbing service to address urgent repairs promptly.

5.0

267 Reviews

The All Pipes INC.

255 Holly Ln, Elk Grove Village, IL 60007

The All Pipes INC. is a licensed and insured plumbing company serving Chicago, IL. They provide a wide range of plumbing services including water heater repair and installation, trenchless sewer repair, sump pump installation, leak detection, and hydro jetting for drain cleaning. The company offers both residential and commercial plumbing solutions and specializes in tankless water heater installations to help reduce energy costs. Founded by Grigor Ganchev, who has built his career in plumbing over many years, The All Pipes INC. emphasizes integrity and clear communication with clients to maintain lasting relationships.

5.0

210 Reviews

Vanguard Plumbing and Sewer, Inc.

4352 N Kenneth Ave, Chicago, IL 60641

Vanguard Plumbing and Sewer, Inc. provides a wide range of residential plumbing services in Chicago, IL. Their offerings include sewer camera inspections, water heater repair and installation (both tanked and tankless), water softener installation, sump pump repair, drain cleaning, sewer line repair, leak detection, repiping, gas line installation, toilet and garbage disposal repair, and custom plumbing solutions. They use advanced plumbing camera technology for thorough video inspections and have expertise in handling multiunit plumbing projects. Vanguard is known for clear pricing and licensed, insured plumbers. While primarily serving residential customers, they occasionally assist local businesses. Their service area covers Chicago and its northern suburbs.

4.9

367 Reviews

Andersen Plumbing & Sewer

576 S Arthur Ave, Arlington Heights, IL 60005

Andersen Plumbing & Sewer has been serving Chicago, IL, since 1980, providing a wide range of plumbing services including water heater repair and installation, sump pump repair, drain cleaning, hydro jetting, sewer line repair, leak detection, toilet repair, and garbage disposal repair. The company specializes in flood control systems, sewer repairs, and power rodding, using both traditional and modern plumbing techniques. Andersen Plumbing offers emergency plumbing services for issues like busted pipes, flooded basements, and clogged drains, backed by a Lifetime Workmanship Guarantee.

4.9

254 Reviews

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Understanding Garbage Disposal Types and Costs

The first step in any repair or replacement project is understanding the appliance itself. Garbage disposals are categorized primarily by their feed type and motor power, which directly influence both performance and price.

Continuous-Feed Models are the most common type found in homes. They are activated by a wall switch and allow you to add food waste while the unit is running. These units are generally more affordable, with prices for the appliance alone ranging from about $75 to $500, depending on horsepower and features ^{1 2 3}.

Batch-Feed Models operate differently; you load food waste, then insert a special stopper or cover to activate the grinding mechanism. This design is often considered safer and quieter but is less common and typically more expensive, with units costing between $200 and $650 ^{1 4 3}.

The horsepower (HP) rating is a critical factor. A basic 1/3 HP model is sufficient for light, occasional use. For households that frequently process food waste or desire stronger grinding to reduce jams, models with 1/2, 3/4, or even 1 HP are recommended. Higher horsepower units can handle tougher materials and are generally more durable ^{1 2 4}.

In Illinois, the total cost for garbage disposal services can vary widely based on these factors and the complexity of the installation. Simple repairs, such as clearing a jam or fixing a minor leak, typically range from $100 to $450^{5 6}. For a full replacement, which includes the cost of the new unit and professional installation, homeowners can expect to pay between $200 and $1,000 or more^{5 7 2 4}. A basic replacement with a standard unit often falls in the $200-$400 range, while mid-range setups cost $400-$800. High-end installations or those in older homes requiring significant plumbing or electrical updates can exceed $800 ^{5 7 6}.

The Professional Installation Process: Plumbing and Electrical Considerations

While a handy homeowner might manage a simple swap-out, most installations involve critical plumbing and electrical work that requires a professional's expertise for safety and code compliance.

Plumbing Connections are fundamental. The disposal must be securely mounted to the sink's drain flange and connected to the P-trap and drain line. Over time, seals and gaskets can degrade, leading to leaks. An installer will check the sink flange condition and may need to reconfigure pipes, especially in older Illinois homes where layouts may not be standard ^{7 8 9 10}.

Electrical Requirements are equally important. A garbage disposal requires a dedicated, grounded electrical circuit. Many installations need a switch-either a traditional wall switch or a convenient air-activated switch mounted on the countertop. In older houses, this often means a licensed professional must run new wiring or install a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlet to meet current safety codes ^{7 8 9 11}. Attempting this without proper knowledge risks electrical shock or fire.

Repair vs. Replacement: Making the Right Choice

When your disposal fails, deciding whether to repair or replace it depends on the age of the unit, the nature of the problem, and the associated costs.

Opting for Repair makes financial sense in several scenarios. If the unit is relatively new (less than 5 years old) and the issue is simple-like a jam that can be cleared, a reset of the overload protector, or a replacement of a worn splash guard-repair is usually the most cost-effective path, with service calls often between $100 and $450 ^{5 7 6}. Persistent humming without grinding usually indicates a jam, while leaks from the top suggest a failed seal at the sink flange, both of which are commonly repairable.

When Replacement is the Better Option often comes down to age and major component failure. If your disposal is over 10 years old, requires a new motor, or has significant corrosion or cracks in the grinding chamber, replacement is typically advised. The cost of repairing an old unit can approach or even exceed the price of a new, more efficient model with a warranty ^{7 12}. Furthermore, upgrading to a higher-horsepower, quieter model can be a worthwhile investment for improved performance and convenience.

What Homeowners Can (and Shouldn't) Do Themselves

There are a few basic troubleshooting steps every Illinois homeowner can safely perform before calling a professional.

Do:

• Choose the unit based on your household's needs and budget.
• Understand basic operation and follow maintenance guidelines, like running cold water during and after use and avoiding grease, fibrous vegetables, and hard bones ^{5 13 12}.
• Perform a simple reset by locating and pressing the red reset button on the bottom of the unit after ensuring it's unplugged or the circuit is off.
• Clear minor jams using a dedicated hex wrench (often provided with the unit) to manually rotate the grinding plate from the bottom, always with the power disconnected ^{5 13 8}.

Don't:

• Attempt complex electrical wiring or install a new circuit. This is dangerous and must be done by a licensed electrician or plumber qualified for electrical work.
• Perform extensive plumbing modifications, such as re-routing drain lines or soldering pipes, if you lack the experience. Improper work can lead to major leaks and water damage ^{8 12}.
• Put your hands or tools into the grinding chamber. Even with the power off, sharp blades pose a risk of injury.
• Use chemical drain cleaners in a clogged disposal, as they can damage the metal components and seals ¹³.

Special Considerations for Older Illinois Homes

Homes in historic Chicago neighborhoods or older suburbs across Illinois often present unique challenges that can affect the scope and cost of a garbage disposal project.

Outdated Plumbing: Galvanized steel or old iron pipes may not align well with modern disposal fittings, requiring adapters or partial pipe replacement. Sink basins themselves might be thinner or lack a proper mounting assembly for a new disposal ^{9 10}.

Electrical System Limitations: Many older homes lack the required dedicated circuit or grounded outlets under the sink. Upgrading the electrical service to accommodate a disposal is a common and necessary added cost, as noted by local professionals like J.L. Wagner Plumbing in areas like St. Charles ^{1 9 14}. This essential upgrade ensures safety but must be factored into the overall budget.

Space Constraints: Cabinetry under sinks in vintage homes can be cramped, making the physical installation more difficult and time-consuming for the technician.

Finding Reliable Service in Illinois

For all but the simplest fixes, hiring a licensed and insured professional is crucial. A qualified plumber will ensure the installation is correct, up to code, and backed by a workmanship guarantee. They can also assess your home's specific plumbing and electrical readiness, preventing future problems. Many reputable local companies throughout Illinois, from Chicago to Springfield to Peoria, specialize in garbage disposal repair and installation, offering the expertise needed to navigate the state's diverse range of home ages and styles ^{13 9 12}.

Frequently asked questions

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