Top Garbage Disposal Service Companies in Memphis, Tennessee Ranked

A functional garbage disposal is a key component of a modern, efficient kitchen, making cleanup faster and more hygienic. When your unit jams, leaks, or fails entirely, it disrupts your daily routine and can lead to unpleasant odors and potential plumbing issues. This guide is designed to help Memphis homeowners understand their options for garbage disposal service, from selecting the right horsepower for their household to navigating the repair or installation process with a qualified local professional.

GIBBER SERVICES LLC

memphis

GIBBER SERVICES LLC is a family-owned business providing heating, cooling, and plumbing services in Memphis, TN. They offer a range of plumbing solutions including water heater repair and installation, drain cleaning, toilet repair, and garbage disposal services. Their licensed and insured technicians handle residential HVAC and plumbing jobs with expertise, also providing maintenance to help prevent future issues. Gibber Services has built a reputation in the Memphis area through years of experience and positive customer feedback.

5.0

81 Reviews

Avanzi Plumbing

memphis

Avanzi Plumbing is a plumbing service provider located in Memphis, TN. They offer a wide range of services including sewer camera inspections, water heater repair and installation, drain cleaning, sewer line repair, leak detection, repiping, gas line installation, toilet repairs, and garbage disposal repair. The company is known for handling emergency repairs and providing thorough leak detection and pipe installation services. Avanzi Plumbing is a family-owned business led by Daniel Avanzi, who brings extensive experience and a hands-on approach to each project. They also provide after-hours and weekend service to accommodate urgent plumbing needs.

5.0

62 Reviews

Hiller Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical

1280 Big Orange Rd, Cordova, TN 38018

Hiller Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical offers a wide range of plumbing, heating, cooling, and electrical services in Memphis, TN. Their services include water heater repair and installation, water softener installation, drain cleaning, leak detection, toilet repair, and garbage disposal repair. The company is equipped to handle complex plumbing and HVAC issues and provides emergency and after-hours services. Customers appreciate their knowledgeable technicians and thorough approach to repairs and installations. Hiller is known for its comprehensive service offerings and commitment to customer satisfaction, making it a reliable choice for home maintenance and repairs in the Memphis area.

4.8

2.3k Reviews

Desoto Air & Plumbing LLC

5779 Getwell Rd Bldg D6, Southaven, MS 38672

Desoto Air & Plumbing LLC provides plumbing and HVAC services in Memphis, TN, including water heater repair and installation, water softener installation, sewer line repair, leak detection, toilet repair, and garbage disposal repair. They serve residential and commercial customers and offer expertise in HVAC system tune-ups and repairs. The company is a licensed contractor and a Trane dealer, providing a range of indoor comfort equipment and plumbing solutions. They serve Desoto, Marshall, and Lafayette counties and emphasize doing the job right the first time. Emergency service is available to help with urgent needs.

4.8

519 Reviews

Drain Go Plumbing

6883 TN-14, Brighton, TN 38011

Drain Go Plumbing is a licensed plumbing company serving the Memphis, TN area with over 30 years of experience. They offer a wide range of residential and commercial plumbing services including sewer camera inspections, tankless water heater installations, drain cleaning, sewer line repairs, repiping, toilet repairs, and garbage disposal repairs. Known for their 24/7 emergency availability, they provide prompt response to plumbing issues at any time of day or night. Their team is trained to meet industry standards and local construction codes, ensuring reliable and code-compliant work.

4.7

2.4k Reviews

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Choosing the Right Garbage Disposal for Your Memphis Home

Selecting a new food waste disposer isn't a one-size-fits-all decision. The most important factor is horsepower (HP), which determines the unit's grinding power and suitability for your household's needs. For smaller Memphis homes or apartments with 1-3 occupants, a 1/3 to 1/2 HP model is typically sufficient for light, everyday use ¹. A mid-range 5/8 to 3/4 HP disposal is an excellent choice for the average family of 3-5 people, offering reliable performance for general kitchen tasks. If you have a larger family (4-8 people), entertain frequently, or want the power to handle tougher food scraps, consider investing in a 1 to 1.25 HP model ¹.

Beyond power, consider features like sound insulation, anti-jamming technology, and corrosion-resistant components. Stainless steel grind components are a worthwhile upgrade for longevity. Always check if the model is compatible with a septic system if your Memphis home uses one.

Understanding the Installation Process

Whether you're replacing an old unit or installing a disposer for the first time, understanding the steps involved can help you communicate effectively with your service technician. A standard installation or replacement follows a logical sequence to ensure safety and proper function.

Safety is the absolute first step: A professional will always confirm the power is completely off at the circuit breaker before beginning any work ¹. The old unit is then removed by disconnecting the drain pipes (including the P-trap) and the dishwasher drain hose if present, before unmounting it from the sink assembly ^{1 2}.

For a new installation, a fresh sink flange is set into the drain opening with plumber's putty to create a watertight seal ^{1 2}. The new disposal unit is then mounted to this assembly. The plumbing connections are re-established, which includes reattaching the P-trap and connecting the dishwasher drain line to the disposer's inlet port (a knockout plug must be removed for this connection) ^{1 2 3}. Finally, the electrical connection is made-either by plugging in a cord or hardwiring the unit-before the system is tested for leaks and proper operation ^{1 2}.

Key Considerations for a Successful Installation

Several factors specific to your Memphis kitchen's setup can influence the installation process. Being aware of these can help prevent surprises.

• Sink Configuration: Garbage disposals can be installed in both single and double-bowl sinks. However, a double sink setup may require an elbow connector to properly route the drain from the second bowl into the disposal unit ^{1 3}.
• Dishwasher Drain: Most disposals have a designated inlet for a dishwasher drain hose. It's crucial that the installer punches out the internal knockout plug to allow this connection, otherwise, dishwasher water will have nowhere to drain ^{2 3}.
• Drainage Alignment: The height and orientation of the disposal's discharge outlet must align correctly with the existing P-trap. Sometimes, the P-trap or drain pipes need to be adjusted or replaced to achieve a proper, leak-free fit ^{1 2}.

Common Garbage Disposal Problems and Repairs

Even the best disposals encounter issues. Knowing the common symptoms can help you diagnose a problem and explain it to a repair technician.

• Jamming: This is often caused by hard, fibrous, or starchy foods (like potato peels or celery). A professional can safely use a special hex wrench to manually reverse the grinding components and free the jam.
• Leaking: Leaks can originate from several points: the sink flange seal, the dishwasher inlet connection, or the main housing. A technician will identify the source, which may involve replacing seals, tightening connections, or in severe cases, replacing the unit.
• Humming but Not Grinding: This usually indicates a jam that the motor cannot overcome. It can also signal a worn-out motor. The technician will first attempt to clear the jam before testing the motor's function.
• Foul Odors: Persistent smells are often due to food debris trapped in the grinding chamber or the splash guard. A thorough cleaning and sanitizing of the unit can typically resolve this.

Cost Expectations for Repair and Installation in Memphis

The total cost for garbage disposal services in Memphis depends on the scope of work-whether it's a simple repair, a like-for-like replacement, or a brand-new installation requiring additional plumbing and electrical work.

For a standard replacement where the existing wiring and plumbing are in good condition, total costs often range from approximately $200 to $400. This includes the price of the new unit (anywhere from $50 for a basic model to $400 for a premium one) and professional labor, which typically runs between $100 and $200 for this straightforward job ^{4 5 6}.

A new installation, where no disposal was previously present, is more involved and therefore more expensive, with total costs frequently ranging from $400 to $600 or more ^{4 7}. This higher price accounts for the additional labor to install a new power circuit (if needed), modify the drain plumbing, and create the initial mounting assembly under the sink. Complexities like difficult access, corroded old pipes, or the need for an electrical outlet will add to the final price ^{4 5}.

Maintaining Your Garbage Disposal

Proper maintenance can extend the life of your disposal and prevent many common issues. Always run a strong stream of cold water before, during, and for about 30 seconds after grinding. Cold water helps solidify any grease or oils so they can be chopped up and flushed away. Avoid putting fibrous vegetables (celery, corn husks), expandable starches (pasta, rice), grease, coffee grounds, or eggshells down the drain. To keep it clean and smelling fresh, periodically grind citrus peels or a few drops of dish soap with cold water. Never use chemical drain cleaners, as they can corrode the metal components and damage the seals.

Frequently asked questions

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