Garbage Disposal Repair and Installation in Baltimore Homes: When to Call a Pro
- Steven Stokes
- Aug 5
- 3 min read
A garbage disposal is one of those kitchen appliances you don’t think much about—until it suddenly stops working. Many homeowners in Baltimore and nearby counties run into the same types of problems: strange noises, leaks, clogs, or a unit that simply won’t turn on.
This guide walks through the most common issues, simple fixes you can try at home, and when it makes sense to call an experienced plumber. Many Baltimore residents rely on Stokes Plumbing & Mechanical for garbage disposal services, so don't hesitate to reach out for help when DIY repairs aren’t enough.
1. Garbage Disposal Won’t Start
If your disposal doesn’t make a sound when you flip the switch, don’t panic. First, try pressing the red reset button underneath the unit. If that doesn’t work, check your breaker box to see if the circuit has tripped.
When neither of these fixes brings it back to life, the motor may have burned out. At that point, many homeowners choose to have a local Baltimore plumber inspect the unit and recommend whether a repair or full replacement is the best option.
2. Humming or Jammed Blades
A humming sound usually means the disposal’s blades are stuck. Common causes include:
Seeds or fruit pits
Fibrous foods like celery or corn husks
Small objects that accidentally fell in
You can try using an Allen wrench to manually rotate the blades with the power off. If the jam won’t clear or you’re not comfortable working near the blades, a professional garbage disposal repair service is a safer solution. Many residents in Baltimore County turn to Stokes Plumbing & Mechanical for quick, hassle-free jam removal.
3. Slow Drainage or Standing Water
When your sink takes forever to drain, it usually means food buildup or a blockage in the drainpipe. Try flushing the system with cold water, plunging the sink, or cleaning out the
P‑trap.
If water is still backing up, it’s often a sign of a deeper clog that needs professional tools to clear. A trusted garbage disposal cleaning and repair service in Baltimore can remove stubborn obstructions and restore proper drainage.
4. Persistent Odors
Over time, small bits of food can stick to the inside of the disposal, causing unpleasant smells.
Quick remedies include:
Grinding ice cubes and salt to scrape residue off the blades
Using baking soda and vinegar to neutralize odors
Running citrus peels for a fresh scent
When odors keep coming back, a deep cleaning or maintenance service is the best way to eliminate bacteria and buildup. Companies offering garbage disposal maintenance in Baltimore can safely sanitize the unit and leave your kitchen smelling clean again.
5. Loud Grinding or Metal-on-Metal Sounds
If your disposal makes harsh grinding noises, check for utensils or hard objects that may have fallen in. Always shut off the power before removing anything.
If there’s nothing stuck and the noise persists, internal parts could be damaged. A plumber experienced in garbage disposal repair and replacement can assess whether a new unit is the smarter, longer-lasting choice.
6. Leaks Under the Sink
Leaks can develop from:
A loose sink flange
Cracked or deteriorated seals
Loose connections to drainpipes or the dishwasher
Some leaks can be tightened or resealed, but a bottom housing leak usually means the disposal needs replacing. Many homeowners in Baltimore, Howard, and Harford Counties, rely on professional disposal installation services to ensure a leak-free setup.
Preventing Future Problems
To avoid unexpected breakdowns:
Don’t put grease, fibrous vegetables, or bones into the disposal
Run cold water before and after use to flush food particles
Clean regularly with baking soda, vinegar, or ice cubes
Even with good habits, disposals eventually wear out. When that happens, having a trusted local plumber makes repairs or replacements stress-free.
When to Bring in an Expert
If your disposal won’t start, keeps jamming, leaks persistently, or smells no matter how much you clean it, it’s time for professional help. Many Baltimore homeowners turn to Stokes Plumbing & Mechanical because they’re licensed, experienced, and provide honest recommendations tailored to the home’s plumbing system.
Final Word
Garbage disposals are tough, but even the best units need attention over time. With these troubleshooting tips, you can handle minor problems yourself. For more serious issues, a skilled plumber can handle repairs or replacements quickly and safely, saving you from bigger headaches down the road.
If you’re in Baltimore or surrounding counties and need help with your garbage disposal, Stokes Plumbing & Mechanical is a reliable option for repairs, maintenance, and new installations.
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