Top Garbage Disposal Service Companies in Columbus, Ohio Ranked

A garbage disposal is a modern kitchen convenience that helps manage food waste efficiently, keeping your sink clear and your home more hygienic. When your unit malfunctions or you're looking to upgrade, professional repair or installation ensures the job is done safely and correctly, connecting to both your plumbing and electrical systems. This guide will help you understand the process, costs, and key considerations for finding a qualified local expert to handle your garbage disposal needs in Columbus.

Gunther Plumbing

3080 Scioto Darby Executive Ct, Hilliard, OH 43026

Gunther Plumbing is a family-owned plumbing company serving Columbus, OH, and surrounding suburbs. With over 20 years of experience, they offer a wide range of residential plumbing services including water heater installation and repair, sump pump maintenance, drain cleaning, sewer line repair, and hydro jetting. Their team uses camera inspection technology to accurately diagnose plumbing issues and provides certified backflow testing to ensure water safety. Gunther Plumbing is known for handling both routine maintenance and emergency repairs efficiently.

5.0

755 Reviews

Foust Plumbing & Heating

321 W Bigelow Ave Suite 200, Plain City, OH 43064

Foust Plumbing & Heating is a family-owned plumbing and HVAC contractor serving Columbus, OH, and surrounding areas. They offer a range of services including water heater repair and installation, water softener installation, sump pump repair, drain cleaning, gas line installation, and garbage disposal repair. With over 40 years of experience, the company provides skilled technicians and services for all major brands of heating, air conditioning, and plumbing equipment. Emergency service is available for urgent needs.

5.0

433 Reviews

Hesson Plumbing and Drains

4299 Professional Pkwy, Groveport, OH 43125

Hesson Plumbing and Drains has been serving Columbus, OH, and the surrounding Central Ohio area for over 20 years. They provide a range of plumbing services including water heater repair and installation, drain cleaning, sewer line repair, leak detection, and garbage disposal repair. Their experience covers both residential and commercial plumbing needs, with capabilities in water heater services and sewer maintenance.

4.9

805 Reviews

Rannebarger Home Maintenance

324 Josaphat Way, Columbus, OH 43213

Rannebarger Home Maintenance is a home maintenance provider based in Columbus, OH, offering a wide range of services including sump pump repair, drain cleaning, hydro jetting, and garbage disposal repair. They serve Columbus and surrounding areas with expertise in sump pump replacement and emergency 24/7 sump pump services to help keep basements dry. The company also provides hydro jetting and cabling services for sewer and drain cleaning, addressing issues in gutters, sewers, toilets, and kitchen sinks. Rannebarger Home Maintenance covers various home exterior and interior maintenance needs, including gutter cleaning and replacement, roof cleaning, and ceiling fan installation.

4.9

707 Reviews

Rose Plumbing, LLC

6520 Oley Speaks Way suite a, Canal Winchester, OH 43110

Rose Plumbing, LLC is a family-owned plumbing company serving Columbus, OH, and surrounding areas. With over 30 years of experience, they provide a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services including water heater repair and installation, drain cleaning, leak detection, repiping, gas line installation, toilet repair, and garbage disposal repair. Their certified professionals handle both emergency repairs and complete installations, offering 24/7 emergency commercial service to minimize downtime for businesses.

4.9

226 Reviews

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Understanding Garbage Disposal Power and Sizing

Choosing the right garbage disposal begins with understanding horsepower (HP), which directly relates to performance and household needs. Selecting the correct size prevents jams, improves longevity, and ensures the unit can handle your family's typical food waste volume.

• 1/3 to 1/2 HP: Ideal for 1-3 person households or light use. These models are budget-friendly and sufficient for grinding soft food scraps. ¹
• 5/8 to 3/4 HP: The most common choice for an average family of 3-5 people. This mid-range power handles most food waste, including fibrous vegetables and small bones, with greater ease. ¹
• 1 HP and Above: Designed for large families (4-8+ people) or homes that frequently entertain. High-horsepower disposals grind quickly, resist jams, and often come with longer warranties. ¹

The Professional Installation Process

While a determined DIYer can install a disposal, hiring a professional plumber or electrician is recommended to manage the dual plumbing and electrical connections safely and to ensure compliance with local codes. ² A standard professional installation follows a systematic process.

Preparation and Removal: The technician will first turn off power to the circuit at the breaker box for safety. They then disconnect the drain pipes and electrical wiring from the old, faulty unit before removing it from its mounting assembly under the sink. ^{1 3}

Mounting the New Unit: A critical step involves creating a watertight seal. The installer will apply plumber's putty to the new sink flange before positioning it in the drain opening and securing it from below. ^{3 4} The new food waste disposer is then mounted onto this flange.

Making Connections: The professional will reconnect the dishwasher drain hose if applicable (most disposals have a pre-knocked-out plug for this connection) and align the unit's discharge outlet with the existing P-trap and drain pipe. ^{1 3} Finally, they will connect the unit's wires to the household electrical supply.

Final Testing: Once everything is reassembled, the technician will restore power and run water to test the unit. They check for leaks, listen for unusual noises, and verify that the disposal grinds effectively and drains properly. ^{1 5}

Key Considerations for a Successful Installation

Beyond basic steps, a few technical details separate a good installation from a great one. Attention to these factors prevents future leaks and performance issues.

• Drain Alignment: A professional ensures the new unit's outlet aligns perfectly with the existing drainpipe and P-trap to avoid stress on the pipes and potential leaks. Misalignment is a common source of post-installation problems. ¹
• Dishwasher Compatibility: If you have a dishwasher, your new disposal must have a port for its drain hose. The installer will knock out this internal plug and securely connect the hose, which is essential for proper drainage. ³
• Sealing Materials: The use of plumber's putty (not caulk) on the sink flange is non-negotiable for a lasting, watertight seal that prevents water from leaking into the cabinet below. ^{3 4}

Cost Breakdown for Repair and Installation

Understanding the costs involved helps you budget effectively. The total price is typically a combination of the unit itself and the labor for installation or repair.

• Unit Cost: The price of the garbage disposal itself varies widely, from around $50 for a basic, low-HP model to over $200 for a high-end, high-horsepower unit with advanced features and sound insulation. ⁶
• Installation Labor: Professional installation labor in Columbus generally ranges from $100 to $200 or more. This fee covers the technician's expertise, standard parts, and ensures the installation is up to code. ^{7 6}
• Total Project Cost: For a complete job-purchasing a new unit and having it professionally installed-homeowners can expect a total cost in the range of $200 to $500 or more, depending on the model selected and the complexity of the setup. ^{8 6}
• Local Service Options: Columbus residents have access to local expertise. For example, Lohmeyer Plumbing offers garbage disposal services with upfront pricing and financing options, providing a trusted local resource for these projects. ⁸

Repair vs. Replacement: Making the Right Call

When your disposal is acting up, it's not always clear if a repair will suffice or if a full replacement is more economical. Common repairable issues include jams (which can often be cleared with a special wrench), persistent humming (indicating a jammed motor), or small leaks from drain connections. However, if the unit is over 10 years old, requires a major motor or seal replacement, or leaks from the main tank body, a full replacement is usually more cost-effective and reliable in the long run. A local professional can provide a diagnosis and recommend the most sensible path forward.

Maintaining Your Garbage Disposal

Proper maintenance extends the life of your unit and prevents most common problems. Always run cold water before, during, and for about 30 seconds after grinding to solidify fats and carry waste down the drain. Avoid putting fibrous materials (celery, onion skins), expandable starches (pasta, rice), grease, oil, or non-food items down the disposal. Regularly clean it by grinding ice cubes or citrus peels to sharpen the blades and freshen the drain. These simple habits can prevent the need for frequent repairs.

Choosing a Local Columbus Professional

For installation, repair, or replacement, selecting the right service provider is crucial. Look for a licensed and insured plumber or contractor with specific experience in garbage disposal work. They should be able to assess your existing setup, recommend an appropriately sized unit, and provide a clear, upfront estimate for the job. Checking local reviews and asking for references can give you confidence in their workmanship and customer service, ensuring your kitchen appliance is handled correctly.

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