Garbage Disposals in Myrtle Beach 

Serving the Grand Strand Including Conway, Surfside Beach, Murrells Inlet, Pawleys Island, Socastee, Georgetown, North Myrtle Beach & Garden City

If your garbage disposal is humming, leaking, clogged, or completely dead, you need fast and dependable help. Our garbage disposal services in Myrtle Beach are designed to restore your kitchen’s functionality quickly and safely. Whether your unit needs a simple repair or a full replacement, Dependable Service delivers expert plumbing solutions backed by experience, professionalism, and local knowledge.

You use your garbage disposal daily, but you may not think about it unless it stops working. The average disposal should last about 8 to 12 years before it needs to be replaced if it is used properly. Improper use or lack of maintenance, however, can shorten that lifespan considerably.

At Dependable Service, we understand the importance of a reliable garbage disposal and offer comprehensive repair, installation, and replacement services tailored to the Myrtle Beach community. Our team is equipped with the latest tools and techniques to help ensure your disposal operates smoothly and efficiently, minimizing disruptions to your daily routine. Whether you need garbage disposal repair in Myrtle Beach or are considering a new installation, our services are designed to meet your specific needs.

Call (843) 604-0423 or contact us online today to schedule an appointment and learn more about our garbage disposal services in Myrtle Beach.

Proper Use of the Garbage Disposal

Some people take the name garbage disposal a little too literally. Although it is built to be durable, it is not designed for the disposal of household items or large quantities of kitchen debris. A disposal is designed to cut soft foods into small pieces so they can be washed down the drain.

Regular maintenance is key to extending the life of your disposal. Simple steps like running cold water while using the disposal, cutting large food items into smaller pieces, and periodically cleaning with a mixture of vinegar and baking soda can help keep your unit in good shape. Doing so helps prevent clogs, avoid unpleasant odors, and support the longevity of the appliance.

For many homeowners in coastal areas like Myrtle Beach, sand and small food particles can build up in pipes more quickly because of frequent cooking, entertaining, or short-term rentals. Taking a moment after each use to let water run for 20 to 30 seconds helps move ground food through the trap and out of the immediate plumbing. This simple habit, combined with avoiding harsh chemical drain cleaners, can reduce the likelihood that you will need unexpected service on your disposal or kitchen drain.

Items that should never go down the disposal include:

• Bones of any kind.
• Coffee grounds.
• Non-food items.
• Grease.
• Anything that is stringy or fibrous, like celery, corn husks, or onion peels.

These items can dull blades, creating the need to repair or replace the disposal.

Complete Garbage Disposal Services in Myrtle Beach

We provide full-service garbage disposal solutions for residential and light commercial properties. No matter the brand, model, or issue, our team is equipped to handle it.

Garbage Disposal Repair

Not every broken disposal needs to be replaced. Our plumbers begin with a thorough inspection to identify the root cause of the problem.

Garbage Disposal Replacement

When repairs are no longer cost-effective, we provide professional garbage disposal replacement services. Older units, cracked housings, or severely damaged motors often require replacement for safety and efficiency.

Garbage Disposal Installation for New Kitchens

If you’re remodeling your kitchen or installing a garbage disposal for the first time, professional installation is essential. Improper installation can cause leaks, electrical hazards, or drainage issues.

Deciding Between Garbage Disposal Repair and Replacement

When your disposal starts acting up, it can be hard to know if a repair will solve the issue or if it is time for a full replacement. Age, frequency of use, and the type of problem you are seeing all play a role in that decision. Many homes along the Grand Strand see heavier-than-average kitchen use during vacation seasons, which can put additional strain on older units and shorten their practical lifespan.

In general, a newer disposal that is less than eight years old and has not had repeated issues is a good candidate for repair. Problems like a loose connection, worn gasket, or jammed impeller can often be corrected without replacing the entire unit. On the other hand, if the motor has burned out, the housing is cracked, or you have already paid for several fixes in the past couple of years, investing in a new unit usually offers better long-term value than continuing to repair the old one.

It can also be a good opportunity to upgrade when you are already planning other work in the kitchen. If you are replacing countertops, changing out a sink, or updating plumbing to meet current building codes in Horry or Georgetown County, installing a new disposal at the same time can help avoid future disruptions. Choosing a model with the right horsepower, noise level, and warranty for your household gives you a system that will better match how you cook and clean every day.

At Dependable Service, we walk you through the practical pros and cons of repair versus replacement based on the specific condition of your disposal and the needs of your home. Our goal is to help you avoid unnecessary expenses while making sure your kitchen stays safe, convenient, and ready for everyday use.

What to Expect During Garbage Disposal Service

Knowing what will happen during a service visit can make scheduling repair or installation feel much more straightforward. When you book a garbage disposal appointment with us, we start by asking a few questions about the symptoms you are seeing, how old the unit is, and whether there have been past issues. This helps us arrive at your Myrtle Beach home prepared with the right parts and tools for an efficient visit.

Once on site, we protect the work area, shut off power to the disposal, and perform a visual and functional inspection of the unit and nearby plumbing. You can expect us to test switches, check electrical connections, and look for signs of leaks or corrosion around the sink flange and drain connections. If installation of a new disposal is needed, we will confirm that the mounting system is compatible with your existing sink and that the electrical supply meets current safety standards.

Before any work begins, we take time to explain what we found in clear terms and present your options along with straightforward pricing. Whether the next step is a simple garbage disposal repair Myrtle Beach homeowners often need or a complete replacement with a new model, you will know what we recommend and why. After the work is complete, we test the disposal under normal operating conditions, check for leaks, and clean up the area so you can get back to using your kitchen with confidence.

Common Disposal Problems in Myrtle Beach

Putting too much food into the disposal at one time can cause it to overheat. Most disposals have a fail-safe switch. When it overheats, the switch will cut the disposal off.

Even if you use your disposal properly, over time you can begin to experience these common problems:

• Jamming or clogging caused by dull blades.
• The disposal runs slowly or will not run at all. The most likely cause of this is either a jam from too much food or a motor that is wearing out.
• Loud noises, a constant humming, or no noise at all could indicate there are problems with the motor as well.
• Rotten food odors indicate that food is not being cleared from the drain because the disposal is inefficient.
• Water accumulating under the sink from a leak in the hoses, a faulty seal, or a crack in the housing.

If you experience any of these problems, it is time to consider whether to repair or replace the disposal. Once a disposal has been in use for about eight years, problems can begin to occur and replacing the unit might be less expensive than repairing it repeatedly. Newer units may need a simple repair, such as replacing a hose or a seal.

Many homeowners start by trying a few safe troubleshooting steps before calling for service. For example, you can switch off the power at the breaker, press the reset button on the bottom of the disposal, and gently turn the grinding plate with an Allen wrench if the unit is jammed. If the unit trips the breaker again, shows signs of a crack, or leaks return after you tighten visible connections, it is usually time to have a professional look at the system rather than continuing to reset it.

At Dependable Service, we provide thorough inspections to accurately diagnose disposal issues and offer honest recommendations. Our team is committed to offering prompt and reliable service to residents in Myrtle Beach and surrounding areas, helping to minimize disruption to your home life.

Signs You Need Garbage Disposal Service

If you notice any of the following issues, it’s time to call Dependable Service at (843) 604-0423:

• Persistent foul odors from the sink
• Grinding noises or metal-on-metal sounds
• Water backing up into the sink
• Frequent reset button trips
• Disposal won’t turn on at all

Ignoring these warning signs can lead to bigger plumbing problems and higher repair costs.

Garbage Disposal Maintenance Tips

Proper maintenance can extend the life of your garbage disposal and reduce repair needs. We recommend:

• Running cold water before and after use
• Avoiding grease, bones, and fibrous foods
• Cutting food waste into small pieces
• Cleaning monthly with ice and citrus peels

If maintenance doesn’t resolve issues, our Myrtle Beach garbage disposal service team is always ready to help.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Often Should I Clean My Garbage Disposal?

Regular cleaning of your garbage disposal is essential to maintain its efficiency and avoid unpleasant odors. It is generally recommended to clean your disposal every two weeks. You can do this by grinding ice cubes and salt to dislodge any stuck-on debris, followed by a rinse with cold water. Additionally, using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar can help break down any grime left inside. It is an easy routine that can save you from more extensive cleaning efforts down the road.

What Are My Options for Replacing a Garbage Disposal?

When it comes to replacing your garbage disposal, several options are available depending on your needs and budget. There are continuous feed models, which allow you to keep the disposal running while adding waste, and batch feed models, which only operate when the unit is sealed with a stopper. Considerations also include the horsepower of the motor, with more powerful models handling tougher waste. At Dependable Service, we provide consultations to help you choose the right model for your home, focusing on energy efficiency and durability.

Why Is My Garbage Disposal Leaking?

Leaking from a garbage disposal is a common issue that can stem from various problems, such as a loose flange or damaged seals. It is important to address leaks promptly, as they can cause water damage to your cabinetry and flooring. First, check the connection where the disposal meets the sink. If the connection is secure and the leak persists, it may require professional assessment to identify the faulty component. Our team at Dependable Service is skilled in quickly diagnosing and fixing leaks, restoring your disposal to proper use.

How Do I Know If My Garbage Disposal Needs Repair or Replacement?

Determining whether your garbage disposal needs repair or replacement depends on the age of the unit and the severity of the problem. Minor issues like clogs, jams, or reset button trips can often be repaired. However, if your disposal is more than 8–10 years old, frequently breaks down, or has a cracked housing, replacement may be the more cost-effective option. A professional inspection from Dependable Service can help you make the right decision.

Can I Use My Garbage Disposal Every Day?

Yes, garbage disposals are designed for daily use when operated properly. Running cold water during use and avoiding hard or fibrous foods helps prevent damage. Daily use is safe as long as the disposal is not overloaded and is maintained regularly. If you notice unusual noises or reduced performance, it’s best to have it checked by a professional.

What Foods Should Never Go Into a Garbage Disposal?

Certain foods can damage your garbage disposal or clog your plumbing. Avoid putting the following items down the disposal:

• Grease, fats, or oils
• Bones or fruit pits
• Coffee grounds
• Fibrous foods like celery or corn husks
• Starchy foods such as pasta or rice

Keeping these items out of your disposal helps extend its lifespan and prevents costly plumbing issues.

Why Does My Garbage Disposal Make a Humming Noise?

A humming noise usually means the disposal motor is running, but the blades are jammed. This can happen when a hard object becomes lodged inside the unit. Turn off the power before attempting to clear the jam. If the issue persists or the disposal won’t spin freely, professional service may be required to prevent motor damage.

Is It Safe to Use Chemical Cleaners in a Garbage Disposal?

Chemical drain cleaners are generally not recommended for garbage disposals. These products can damage internal components and pipes, especially with repeated use. Natural cleaning methods like baking soda and vinegar or ice and salt are safer alternatives. For persistent odors or buildup, professional cleaning is the best solution.

How Long Does a Garbage Disposal Typically Last?

Most garbage disposals last between 8 and 12 years with proper use and maintenance. Factors such as frequency of use, food types disposed of, and routine cleaning all affect lifespan. If your disposal is nearing the end of its life, upgrading to a newer, more efficient model can improve performance and reduce noise.

Can a Garbage Disposal Cause Drain Clogs?

Yes, a garbage disposal can contribute to drain clogs if improper items are flushed down the sink or if food waste accumulates over time. Even with a disposal, your sink drain still requires proper care. Routine maintenance and professional drain cleaning can help prevent backups and slow drainage.