A garburator (also called a garbage disposal) is one of the most convenient kitchen appliances for many Vancouver homeowners. It makes clean-up faster, keeps food scraps out of the garbage, and helps reduce waste. But when your garburator starts making strange noises, clogging frequently, or simply stops working, you might be wondering — should you repair it, or is it time to replace it?
At Plumbhartt Plumbing & Heating, we’ve worked on countless garburators across Vancouver homes, from quick repairs to full replacements. Here’s what you need to know to make the right decision.
Signs Your Garburator Might Need Repair
Sometimes, your garburator just needs a little maintenance to get back to working like new. You may be able to repair it if you notice:
- Jamming or clogs – Often caused by fibrous foods, bones, or utensils accidentally falling in.
- Strange noises – A rattle or grinding sound could mean there’s a foreign object inside.
- Foul odours – Buildup in the blades or chamber can be cleaned to remove smells.
- Unit won’t turn on – Could be an electrical issue or a simple reset.
Many of these problems can be fixed quickly by a plumber, especially if the garburator is relatively new and in otherwise good condition.
When It’s Time to Replace Your Garburator
Even with proper care, garburators don’t last forever. Most have a lifespan of 8–12 years, depending on usage and maintenance. You may want to replace your unit if:
- Frequent breakdowns are costing you more in repairs than a new unit would.
- Cracks or leaks develop in the casing.
- Rust or corrosion is visible inside.
- The unit is over 10 years old and not working efficiently.
- You want an upgrade to a quieter, more powerful model with better energy efficiency.
A new garburator can save you time, improve performance, and even use less water and energy.
Proper Garburator Care to Extend Its Life
Whether you repair or replace, good maintenance will help your garburator run better and last longer:
- Run cold water before, during, and after use.
- Avoid putting fibrous vegetables, grease, bones, or pasta down the unit.
- Clean with a mixture of ice cubes and citrus peels once a month to sharpen blades and freshen smells.
- Never use harsh chemical drain cleaners — they can damage your garburator.
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Garburator Repair & Replacement in Vancouver
If you’re unsure whether your garburator can be repaired or needs replacing, Plumbhartt Plumbing & Heating is here to help. Our licensed Vancouver plumbers can inspect your unit, explain your options, and provide fast, reliable service — whether that’s a same-day repair or a professional installation of a new unit.
Contact us today to schedule your garburator service and keep your kitchen running smoothly.