Top Garbage Disposal Service Companies in Detroit, Michigan Ranked

A garbage disposal is a powerful kitchen appliance that grinds food waste into tiny particles, allowing it to be washed safely down your drain. Proper installation and repair are crucial for preventing clogs, avoiding leaks, and ensuring your kitchen plumbing system functions efficiently. This guide will help you understand the key considerations for your project, from selecting the right unit to the professional installation process, so you can confidently connect with qualified local specialists.

Cregger Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

2335 Goodrich St, Ferndale, MI 48220

Cregger Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is a third-generation, locally operated plumbing and HVAC company serving Detroit, MI. They provide a wide range of services including water heater repair and installation, sump pump repair, drain cleaning, hydro jetting, leak detection, gas line installation, toilet repair, and garbage disposal repair. The company is known for its licensed and insured plumbers who offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services to address urgent issues at any time. Established in 1987, Cregger Plumbing has built a reputation for transparent pricing and community involvement.

4.9

6.3k Reviews

Bison Plumbing

25780 Ryan Rd, Warren, MI 48091

Bison Plumbing is a family-owned and operated plumbing company serving Detroit, MI, and the surrounding Metro Detroit area since 1998. They provide a wide range of commercial and residential plumbing services, including sewer camera inspections, drain cleaning, hydro jetting, trenchless sewer repair, and general plumbing repairs. Their expertise in no-dig sewer repairs, such as pipe lining and pipe patching, allows them to rehabilitate sewer and storm lines without traditional digging methods. Bison Plumbing also offers backflow testing and mechanical piping services, ensuring compliance with local codes and standards.

4.9

2.6k Reviews

Detroit Furnace LLC

31313 Kendall, Fraser, MI 48026

Detroit Furnace LLC provides comprehensive plumbing and HVAC services in Detroit, MI. Their offerings include water heater repair and installation, drain cleaning, sewer line repair, leak detection, repiping, gas line installation, toilet repair, and garbage disposal repair. The company serves the Detroit Metro area and is equipped to handle a wide range of plumbing and heating needs with skilled technicians. They offer 24/7 emergency service and support all brands and models. Detroit Furnace LLC is known for its commitment to proper installation and maintenance, including a "no lemon" guarantee for heating systems maintained by their team.

4.9

2.2k Reviews

5 Star Plumbing

23561 Van Born Rd, Taylor, MI 48180

5 Star Plumbing is a plumbing service provider based in Detroit, MI, offering a wide range of plumbing solutions including water heater repair and installation, sump pump repair, drain cleaning, gas line installation, toilet repair, and garbage disposal repair. With over 40 years of experience since 1982, the company combines skilled workmanship with personalized service to handle projects of all sizes. Their team recently expanded in 2024, enhancing their capabilities while maintaining a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

4.9

329 Reviews

Hoover Electric Plumbing Heating Cooling

1871 Woodslee Ave, Troy, MI 48083

Hoover Electric Plumbing Heating Cooling is a multi-service provider based in Detroit, MI, offering electrical, plumbing, heating, and cooling solutions. Serving Southeast Michigan, they specialize in drain cleaning and garbage disposal repair among other home services. Established in 1980, the company has decades of experience and provides service every day of the year. Their licensed technicians focus on lasting repair solutions and use high-quality equipment to address the root causes of issues.

4.8

4.9k Reviews

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Understanding Your Garbage Disposal Options

Choosing the right food waste disposer involves more than just picking a model off the shelf. The most important factor is horsepower (HP), which determines the unit's grinding power and durability. For most Detroit households, the standard choices are between 1/2 HP and 3/4 HP models ^{1 2}. A 1/2 HP disposal is suitable for basic, everyday use in smaller households. If your home frequently processes tougher food scraps or you have a larger family, investing in a 3/4 HP unit provides more torque and can handle heavier loads more effectively, reducing the chance of jams ^{3 4}.

Brand reputation is another key consideration. InSinkErator is a widely recognized and popular brand known for reliability, but several other manufacturers offer quality units with varying features, warranties, and noise levels ^{1 3}. When selecting a model, also consider if it includes features like anti-jamming technology, corrosion-resistant components, and a compatible inlet for your dishwasher drain hose.

The Professional Installation Process Explained

Hiring a professional plumber for your garbage disposal installation in Detroit ensures the job is done safely, correctly, and in compliance with local building codes. The process typically follows a systematic approach that takes one to two hours ^{1 5}.

First, the technician will conduct a thorough inspection of your existing sink cabinet. They check the sink flange, assess the available space, and verify the plumbing connections. Crucially, they will confirm the electrical setup, as a garbage disposal requires a dedicated circuit for safety, which may involve checking for a proper grounded outlet or preparing for a hardwired connection ^{1 6 7}.

If replacing an old unit, the next step is removal. The plumber will safely disconnect the power, detach the drain pipes and P-trap, and un-mount the old disposer and its sink flange ^{8 9}. For a new installation, they begin by applying plumber's putty to the new sink flange and securing it beneath the sink drain. The mounting assembly is then installed, creating a secure base for the unit itself ⁶.

The core of the installation involves connecting the disposal unit to your home's systems. The plumber will mount the new disposal to the flange, connect it to the drain pipe and P-trap, and attach the dishwasher drain hose if applicable ^{1 8 10}. Finally, they handle the electrical connection-either plugging it into a pre-installed outlet or hardwiring it to a dedicated circuit. The job concludes with comprehensive testing: running water to check for leaks, testing the grinding function with cold water, and demonstrating proper operation and safety reset procedures ^{1 9}.

Key Installation Considerations for Detroit Homes

A successful install isn't just about the unit itself; it's about integrating it seamlessly with your existing kitchen infrastructure. Several technical points must align for optimal performance.

Dishwasher Connection: Most modern garbage disposals include a dedicated inlet port for a dishwasher drain hose. It is essential that your dishwasher hose is correctly routed and connected here, as this allows food particles from the dishwasher to be ground up and prevents drain line clogs ^{1 6}.

Plumbing Alignment: The disposal's outlet must align properly with the existing drainpipe and P-trap. A professional will ensure all connections are tight and the P-trap is correctly positioned to maintain the necessary water seal, which prevents sewer gases from entering your home ^{1 7}.

Cabinet Space: Under-sink cabinets in older Detroit homes can sometimes be cramped. The plumber will verify there is adequate clearance not only for the disposal unit but also for the plumbing connections and any additional items you store there ¹.

Electrical Requirements: This is a critical safety element. Garbage disposals should be powered by a dedicated 15-amp or 20-amp circuit to prevent overloading. Your installer will confirm your home's wiring can support this, which may involve adding a new circuit or switch, a task best left to a qualified electrician if needed ^{6 7}.

Cost Expectations for Installation and Repair

Understanding the potential costs helps in budgeting for your garbage disposal project in Detroit. The total price is generally composed of the unit cost and professional labor.

The appliance itself can range from around $50 for a basic model to over $200 for a high-performance unit ^{11 4}. Professional installation labor, if you're not supplying the unit, typically adds another $100 to $200 or more, depending on the job's complexity-such as the need for new electrical work, difficult access, or replacing corroded old plumbing ^{1 2 5}.

Therefore, for a complete professional installation of a new garbage disposer, Detroit homeowners can expect a total cost in the range of $200 to $400 or more ^{1 8 11}. It's always wise to get detailed quotes from local service providers, as prices can vary based on the specific unit, your home's setup, and the plumber's rates. For repair services, costs will depend on the issue-whether it's a simple jam clearance, a part replacement, or a motor failure-making an on-site diagnosis the best first step ^{2 12}.

The Value of Professional Service

While a determined DIYer can install a disposal, there are significant advantages to hiring a professional. Licensed plumbers bring expertise that ensures code compliance, which is important for home insurance and safety. They have the tools and knowledge to handle unexpected complications, like a rusted-on old flange or incorrect wiring, efficiently ^{7 5}.

Perhaps most importantly, a professional installation minimizes the risk of future problems. Improper connections are a leading cause of leaks under the sink, which can lead to water damage and mold. Correct electrical hookups prevent fire hazards and ensure the unit's longevity. A pro will also test the installation thoroughly and can often provide a warranty on their workmanship, giving you peace of mind ^{1 12 9}. For repairs, a technician can accurately diagnose whether a unit can be fixed or needs replacement, saving you time and money in the long run.

Maintaining Your Garbage Disposal

Once installed, proper maintenance will extend the life of your disposal. Always run cold water before, during, and after grinding to solidify fats and carry particles down the drain. Avoid putting fibrous materials (like celery stalks), grease, coffee grounds, or expandable items (pasta, rice) down the unit. Regularly cleaning with ice cubes and citrus peels can help sharpen the blades and deodorize. Knowing the location of the reset button on the bottom of the unit is also helpful for clearing minor overloads.

Frequently asked questions

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