Top Garbage Disposal Service Companies in Buffalo, New York Ranked

A functional garbage disposal is a modern kitchen essential, making cleanup easier and helping to keep your sink clear of food scraps. When your unit malfunctions or you're looking to add one to your home, professional repair and installation services ensure the job is done safely and correctly, protecting your plumbing system and your home. This guide provides detailed information on what to expect from garbage disposal services in Buffalo, from understanding different models and the installation process to finding qualified local professionals for the task.

Sewer pro plumbing

buffalo

Sewer Pro Plumbing is a plumbing company serving Buffalo, NY, and the surrounding communities in Erie and Niagara Counties. With over 30 years of experience, they provide a wide range of plumbing services including water heater installation and repair, sewer line and drain cleaning, sump pump repair, leak detection, repiping, and gas line installation. Their team uses advanced equipment to handle residential and commercial plumbing needs efficiently and reliably. Sewer Pro Plumbing has a long history of serving the local area and offers expert solutions backed by decades of expertise.

5.0

152 Reviews

Premier Plumbing WNY

buffalo

Premier Plumbing WNY is a locally owned plumbing company serving Buffalo, NY, and the surrounding Western New York area. With over 12 years of experience, they provide a wide range of plumbing services including water heater repair and installation, sump pump replacement, drain cleaning, hydro jetting, repiping, and garbage disposal repair. Their team uses advanced techniques such as high-pressure water jetting to clear tough clogs and offers tailored solutions to meet customer needs. The company is MBE-certified and BBB accredited, and they handle 24/7 emergency plumbing services.

5.0

138 Reviews

Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup

2959 Genesee St Ste C, Cheektowaga, NY 14225

Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup provides comprehensive plumbing services in Buffalo, NY. They offer 24/7 emergency plumbing, drain cleaning, sewer line repair including trenchless methods, water heater repair and installation, leak detection, and commercial plumbing solutions. Their team uses advanced diagnostics and equipment to handle residential and commercial plumbing needs, including water damage cleanup and hydro jetting. Serving Buffalo and surrounding communities, Roto-Rooter is equipped to address urgent plumbing issues any time of day or year.

4.8

1.5k Reviews

Frank's Mr. Plumber

2080 Military Rd, Tonawanda, NY 14150

Frank's Mr. Plumber is a family-owned plumbing company serving Buffalo, NY, and the surrounding Western New York area. With over 40 years of experience, they offer a wide range of plumbing services including sewer camera inspections, water heater installation and repair, sump pump services, drain cleaning with hydro jetting, sewer line repairs, leak detection, and garbage disposal repairs. The company is known for its skilled team, community involvement, and commitment to lasting plumbing solutions. They also provide emergency plumbing services available 24/7 to address urgent issues promptly.

4.8

1.3k Reviews

Jim Ando Plumbing

4534 Clinton St Building 3, West Seneca, NY 14224

Jim Ando Plumbing is a family-owned plumbing company serving Buffalo, NY, and Western New York since 1992. They offer a wide range of plumbing services including water heater installation and repair, sump pump maintenance, drain cleaning, leak detection, toilet and garbage disposal repairs, and sewer services. The company is equipped to handle modern plumbing systems with ongoing training and advanced equipment. Jim Ando Plumbing provides 24/7 emergency services to address urgent plumbing needs at any time.

4.8

434 Reviews

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Understanding Garbage Disposal Power and Sizing

Choosing the right garbage disposal unit is the first step toward reliable performance. The power of a disposal is measured in horsepower (HP), which directly correlates to its ability to grind food waste efficiently and resist jams.

• 1/2 HP Models: These are suitable for basic needs and smaller households. They handle soft food waste well but may struggle with fibrous or harder materials. ¹
• 3/4 HP Models: This is the most popular choice for many Buffalo homes. It offers more power to handle tougher food waste like fruit pits and small bones, making it ideal for larger families or more frequent use. ¹
• 1 HP Models: These are heavy-duty units, less common in standard residential kitchens. They are best for high-volume use or homes where the disposal sees significant daily action. ¹

Selecting the appropriate horsepower not only affects performance but also the longevity of the unit and the strain on your home's plumbing system. A unit that is underpowered for your needs is more likely to jam or burn out.

The Professional Installation Process Explained

A proper garbage disposal installation is more complex than simply swapping out an old appliance. It involves plumbing, electrical work, and careful assembly to prevent leaks and ensure safe operation. Here's a breakdown of what a professional service entails:

1. Preparation & Removal: The technician will first turn off the power at the circuit breaker. They will then disconnect the drain lines, including the P-trap and any dishwasher drain hose, from the old unit before removing its mounting assembly from the sink. ^{2 3 4}
2. Sink Flange Installation: A new sink flange is sealed with plumber's putty and fitted into the sink drain hole. It is secured from below with a gasket and snap ring, creating a watertight seal at the sink. ^{3 5}
3. Mounting the New Unit: The new disposal's mounting assembly is attached to this installed sink flange. The disposal body is then lifted and twisted into place on this mounting ring, locking it securely under the sink. ^{3 5}
4. Dishwasher Connection: If you have a dishwasher, the plastic knockout plug inside the new disposal's inlet must be removed. The dishwasher drain hose is then connected to this port. ^{3 6 5}
5. Electrical Connection: This critical step involves wiring the disposal to your home's electrical supply. It often requires connecting to a dedicated circuit or an existing line with a proper electrical box and switch, a task that must be performed by a licensed electrician for safety and code compliance. ^{2 6 7}
6. Drainage Reconnection: The disposal's discharge outlet is connected to the drainpipe, which leads to the P-trap. The P-trap is essential for preventing sewer gases from entering your home and will often need adjustment or replacement to align with the new unit's height. ^{2 3 7}
7. Testing & Inspection: Once everything is connected, power is restored, and the unit is tested for leaks, proper grinding function, and clear drainage. ⁴

Key Plumbing and Electrical Considerations

A successful installation depends on addressing several technical factors beneath your sink.

• The P-Trap: This U-shaped section of pipe under your sink holds water to block sewer gases. Installing a new disposal often requires adjusting or replacing the P-trap to fit the new unit's outlet height correctly. ^{2 7}
• Dishwasher Knockout Plug: All new disposals have a sealed inlet for a dishwasher drain. This plug must be punctured and removed before installation if you plan to connect a dishwasher. A professional will ensure this is done cleanly. ^{3 6}
• Under-Sink Space: There must be adequate clearance for the disposal unit itself and for all plumbing connections. In tight spaces, a compact or specific model may be recommended.
• Electrical Requirements: Most disposals require a dedicated 15-amp or 20-amp circuit. If one isn't already present, an electrician will need to run a new line. Even with an existing switch, the wiring and connections must be inspected and brought up to current electrical codes. ^{6 7}

Common Repair Issues for Buffalo Homeowners

Even quality disposals can encounter problems. Recognizing common issues can help you decide between a repair or a replacement.

• Jams: The most frequent issue, often caused by improper items like fibrous vegetables (celery, corn husks), grease, or large bones. Professionals use a special hex key to manually rotate the grinding mechanism from below to free the jam.
• Leaks: Leaks can originate from the sink flange, the dishwasher connection, or the main housing seals. A technician will diagnose the source, which may involve resealing with fresh plumber's putty or replacing gaskets and seals.
• Humming but Not Grinding: This usually indicates a jam (as above) or a burned-out motor. If unjamming doesn't work, motor failure typically necessitates a full unit replacement.
• Reset Button Tripping: Disposals have an overload protector that trips if the motor overheats. If resetting it doesn't solve the problem, or if it trips immediately again, there could be a wiring fault or a failing motor.
• Persistent Clogs: Sometimes the issue isn't the disposal itself, but a clog further down the drain line. A professional can snake the drain to clear obstructions in the pipes.

Cost Expectations for Installation and Repair in Buffalo

Understanding the potential costs helps in budgeting for your project. In Buffalo, prices can vary based on the unit's power, brand, and the complexity of the installation.

• Unit Cost: The garbage disposal itself typically ranges from $100 to over $300 at retail, with price increasing with horsepower and features like sound insulation. ^{1 8}
• Labor Costs: Professional installation labor generally falls between $150 and $300+. This covers the plumbing work. If new electrical wiring or a dedicated circuit is needed, an electrician's fee will be additional. ^{2 9 10}
• Total Project Cost: When combining the unit and professional installation, Buffalo homeowners can expect a total cost ranging from $300 to over $700. More complex jobs, such as those requiring significant electrical work or custom plumbing, can be at the higher end of this range, with local estimates showing a span from $294 to $734. ^{1 10}
• Repair Costs: Repair costs are generally lower, often starting around $100-$200 for a service call, diagnosis, and a common fix like unjamming or resealing a leak. The final repair cost depends entirely on the parts needed and the time required.

It's important to note that while major retailers offer installation services, these often cover basic hookup and may exclude necessary electrical work like installing a new switch or circuit. ⁸ A full-service professional will coordinate or handle all aspects, ensuring a complete and code-compliant job.

Benefits of Professional Service vs. DIY

While a handy homeowner might consider DIY installation, the complexities involved make a strong case for hiring a professional.

• Safety: Incorrect electrical wiring poses a serious shock or fire hazard. Professionals ensure all connections are safe and meet National Electrical Code standards.
• Preventing Leaks and Damage: Improper sealing of the sink flange or drain connections can lead to slow leaks that cause significant water damage to your cabinetry and subfloor over time.
• Warranty Protection: Many disposal manufacturers require professional installation to keep the product warranty valid. A DIY job could void this coverage.
• Code Compliance: Plumbers and electricians are familiar with local Buffalo building codes, ensuring your installation is legal and safe for your home insurance.
• Time and Convenience: Professionals have the tools and expertise to complete the job efficiently, often in a single visit, saving you hours of frustration and potential repeat trips to the hardware store.

Frequently asked questions

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