It’s a sound every homeowner dreads. That sudden, high-pitched *whir* of the motor, followed immediately by a jarring *GRIND* or a low, defeated *HUM*. A failing garbage disposal isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a ticking time bomb. An old, leaking, or jammed unit can lead to a severely clogged kitchen sink, cabinet-rotting leaks, and a kitchen that’s simply not functional.
At A-Keveloh Plumbing Inc., we don’t just “swap a part”; we provide expert garbage disposal installation in Woodridge, IL, that is built to last. As a second-generation, family-owned business, we’ve spent over 40 years diagnosing *why* disposals fail for your neighbors, and we install solutions to prevent it from happening again. For a safe, professional installation, call our licensed team at 630-963-0433.
Is Your Old Disposal a Leak Waiting to Happen?
The biggest reason for a new garbage disposal installation isn’t a new kitchen; it’s the failure of an old unit. It’s critical to recognize the warning signs *before* you have a disaster.
- The Fatal Flaw (A Leak from the Bottom): If you see water dripping from the *bottom* of the disposal unit itself, this is a fatal, non-repairable flaw. It means the internal seals have corroded and the unit must be replaced immediately.
- The Jam (The Constant “Hum”): If your unit just hums, the motor is seized. While sometimes it can be unjammed, this is a sign of a struggling motor that is at the end of its life.
- The Smell You Can’t Clean: A persistent, foul odor, even after cleaning, often means the internal grinding components (made of metal) are rusting and decaying, trapping bacteria.
- The Slow Drain: If your sink is draining slowly *even when the disposal runs*, it means the unit is no longer grinding waste finely enough, and it’s creating a kitchen sink clog.
The Woodridge Challenge: Why Hard Water Kills Disposals
As your local Woodridge plumbing experts, we know something that many handymen don’t: our area’s hard water is the #1 enemy of your garbage disposal. You know how hard water (high in calcium and magnesium) leaves spots on your dishes? Imagine what it’s doing to the inside of your disposal.
Hard water minerals:
- Corrode Metal Parts: It rapidly rusts and corrodes the *internal* grinding components, especially in cheaper models with galvanized steel grinders. This is what leads to those internal, “fatal flaw” leaks.
- Create Mineral Buildup: The minerals “scale” on the moving parts, causing the motor to seize and jam more easily.
An A-Keveloh plumber doesn’t just install a new unit; we recommend units with **stainless steel grinding components**. These are far more resistant to the corrosion from our local hard water, ensuring your new installation lasts years longer. This is the difference a true professional makes.
Our Meticulous Installation Process: Built to Last
A “simple swap” that’s done in 20 minutes is a recipe for a leak. Our licensed plumbers are meticulous and ensure every connection is perfect.
- Safe Removal & Disconnect: We safely disconnect the old unit’s plumbing and electrical, containing any water and mess.
- The Perfect, Leak-Proof Seal: We install the new sink flange with professional-grade plumber’s putty, creating a permanent, watertight seal that won’t rot your cabinets.
- Secure Dishwasher & Drain Connections: We ensure the dishwasher drain line is properly connected (and the “knockout plug” is removed!). We also ensure the new drain pipe is perfectly aligned to prevent future clogs.
- Code-Compliant Electrical: We ensure your new unit is safely and properly grounded, compliant with all local codes.
The A-Keveloh Promise: Your Woodridge Neighbor Since 1976
When you call A-Keveloh Plumbing Inc., you’re calling a local, family-owned business that is accountable to our community. Our family’s reputation, built since 1976, is on every job.
- We Are Licensed, Bonded & Insured: Your home is fully protected. Our technicians are all licensed, background-checked A-Keveloh employees.
- We Are Upfront & Honest: We provide clear, flat-rate pricing for your garbage disposal installation *before* we start. No surprises, no hidden fees.
- We Are Hard Water Experts: We understand our local water and will help you choose a product that is built to withstand it.
- We Handle Permits: If your new installation requires new electrical work, it will require a permit from the Village of Woodridge. We are licensed to handle this process for you.
Don’t wait for a jammed motor to become a flooded cabinet. For a professional garbage disposal installation in Woodridge, IL, call the team that understands our local plumbing. Contact A-Keveloh Plumbing Inc. at 630-963-0433 or schedule your service online.
Garbage Disposal FAQs for Woodridge Homeowners
My disposal is leaking from the *bottom*. Can it be fixed?
No. This is the most common and most important question. A leak from the bottom of the unit (not a pipe) is a 100% fatal flaw. It means the internal seals have corroded through, and the unit is non-repairable. It must be replaced, and you should stop using it immediately to prevent water from damaging your electric motor or your cabinet.
What’s the *real* difference between 1/2 HP and 3/4 HP?
The *real* difference is the grinding power and the internal components. A 1/2 HP unit is fine for light use but often has less durable, galvanized grinders. A 3/4 HP is the new “standard” for a modern, busy kitchen. It has more power to prevent jams and almost always comes with the stainless steel components you need to combat our hard water. We strongly recommend a 3/4 HP model as the best value and longest-lasting investment.
What should I *never* put down my garbage disposal?
To make your new disposal last, never grind:
- FOG (Fats, Oils, Grease): This is the #1 rule. It creates clogs.
- Fibrous Foods: Celery, corn husks, artichokes, onion skins.
- Starchy Foods: Potato peels, pasta, rice (they create sludge).
- Coffee Grounds: They don’t grind; they just build up and create clogs.
- Bones, Pits, or Shells: These are too hard and will jam the motor.
