Garbage Disposal Installation & Repair in Seattle, WA
over 4581 reviews
Garbage disposal broken? Call 206.792.7495 today for expert, dependable Seattle garbage disposal repair, installation and replacement, with honest, upfront pricing. We will send a technician to your home when you call to inspect your system and provide a solution that gets your disposal working again.
A working garbage disposal might not get much attention until it stops working, but in a busy kitchen, it plays a big role. From weeknight dinners to holiday prep, it helps keep food waste moving and your sink usable. When it jams, leaks, or refuses to turn on, everything slows down fast, and the mess adds up quickly.
At Gene Johnson Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical, we install and repair garbage disposals for homeowners across the Greater Seattle area. We have spent decades helping local families keep their kitchens running smoothly. Our team has worked on countless homes, from classic older houses to newer builds, and we know how important reliable plumbing is to everyday life here.
Trusted Garbage Disposal Installation Services in Seattle, WA
Installing a garbage disposal is more than just swapping out a unit. It needs to fit your sink, work with your existing plumbing, and connect safely to your electrical system. Our Seattle plumbers handle the full process, making sure everything is set up correctly from the start.
We help homeowners choose the right garbage disposal unit for their kitchen size, usage habits, and plumbing system. Proper installation helps prevent future drain clogs, plumbing leaks, and premature wear, saving you time and frustration later.
Garbage Disposal Models We Often Install in Seattle Homes
Seattle kitchens come in all shapes and sizes, and so do garbage disposals. We install a wide range of models and help you choose one that fits your needs, not just what looks good on the shelf.
- InSinkErator Badger Series: A reliable option for everyday use, known for durability and solid performance in many Seattle homes.
- InSinkErator 333: A step up in power and noise reduction, ideal for busy households that cook often.
- Moen: Popular for quieter operation and strong grinding capabilities that handle tougher food scraps.
- Delta: Known for efficiency and compact designs that work well in smaller cabinet spaces.
- And More: We also install specialty and high-powered units designed for larger families or heavy kitchen use.
No matter the brand or style, we install any type of garbage disposal and make sure it works seamlessly with your drain and plumbing system.
What to Expect From Gene Johnson During Your Garbage Disposal Installation
Installing a new garbage disposal should feel straightforward, not stressful. We keep the process clear and organized, so you know what is happening at every step.
- Initial Assessment: We inspect your sink, drain, existing plumbing, and electrical connections to confirm compatibility and spot any issues that could affect performance or safety.
- Model Selection Support: We help you choose the right new garbage disposal based on grinding power, noise level, household needs, and long-term reliability.
- Professional Installation: Our technicians install the unit securely, connect it properly to the drain and electrical system, and ensure all seals are tight to prevent leaks.
- System Testing: We test the disposal thoroughly, checking rotation, water flow, and grinding action to confirm smooth operation without vibrations or unusual noise.
- Usage and Care Guidance: Before we leave, we explain how to use your disposal properly and what habits help avoid future garbage disposal issues.
Once installation is complete, you are left with a clean workspace and a disposal ready to handle daily kitchen demands with confidence.
Dependable Garbage Disposal Repair Services for Seattle Homeowners
When a garbage disposal stops working, it can bring your whole kitchen to a halt. Strange noises, standing water, or a unit that will not turn on are all signs that something is wrong. Our garbage disposal repair services are designed to get things working again quickly and safely.
Seattle homeowners often call us when disposals fail due to age, misuse, or hidden plumbing issues. We diagnose the problem carefully and recommend honest solutions, whether that means a repair or replacement.
Common Garbage Disposal Issues We Fix
Garbage disposals have several moving parts, and when one fails, the whole unit can struggle. These are some of the most common problems we handle.
- Jammed Flywheel or Impellers: Food debris can lock up the flywheel or impellers, causing humming or complete shutdown. We clear jams safely and restore movement.
- Leaks Under The Sink: Cracks in the disposal housing, loose seals, or worn connections can cause leaks that damage cabinets and floors if ignored.
- Unit Will Not Turn On: Electrical issues, faulty switches, or internal motor problems can stop the disposal from powering up at all.
- Poor Grinding Performance: When the stationary grind ring or internal components wear down, food waste may not break up properly, leading to drain clogs.
- Frequent Drain Clogs: Repeated backups often point to deeper plumbing issues or improper installation that affects the drain line.
If your unit is beyond repair, we help you select a replacement that fits your kitchen and prevents repeat problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Would I Need Garbage Disposal Repair?
Since your garbage disposal includes elements of the electrical system and plumbing system, there are several things that can go wrong that would need professional repairs or replacement. Dulling of the blades could result in the food being improperly processed, which could cause clogs or backups in the plumbing. If an electrical circuit blows or is damaged, then the power to the disposal won’t be working or will be intermittent, requiring a repair. If there is a crack or split in the pipe that’s connected to the garbage disposal drain, you’ll need it repaired or replaced before the system can be used again.
Do I Need a Professional for Garbage Disposal Installation?
While some homeowners consider installing a garbage disposal themselves, professional installation is strongly recommended. A disposal must connect correctly to both the plumbing system and electrical system. Mistakes can lead to leaks, drain clogs, or even electrical hazards. In many Seattle homes, especially older ones, existing plumbing may need adjustments to support a new unit.
A professional also ensures the disposal is mounted securely, aligned with the drain, and sealed properly. This reduces the risk of future plumbing issues and extends the life of the unit. Professional installation also protects warranties, since many manufacturers require certified installation for coverage.
How Long Does Garbage Disposal Installation Usually Take?
In most cases, garbage disposal installation takes one to two hours. The exact time depends on your existing plumbing, electrical connections, and whether modifications are needed. Homes with older drains or cabinets may require additional adjustments. If repiping, a new drain, or electrical panel upgrades are necessary, installation can take longer. During the visit, our technicians handle removal of the old unit, installation of the new garbage disposal, testing, and cleanup. We also take time to explain proper use and care. The goal is a smooth process that leaves your kitchen fully functional the same day.
What Are the Signs I Need Garbage Disposal Repair Instead of Replacement?
Some garbage disposal issues can be repaired, while others signal it is time for a new unit. Common repairable problems include jams, minor leaks, and electrical resets. However, frequent breakdowns, loud grinding noises, or persistent plumbing leaks often indicate deeper damage. Age also matters, as most disposals last around 8 to 12 years. If repairs become frequent or costly, replacement may be more practical. During an inspection, we explain whether garbage disposal repair is cost-effective or if installing a new garbage disposal will save you money long term.
Can Garbage Disposal Problems Cause Other Plumbing Issues?
Yes, a failing garbage disposal can affect other parts of your plumbing. Poor grinding can allow food scraps to build up, leading to a drain clog or slow drainage. Leaks from the disposal can damage cabinets and nearby pipes. In some cases, improper installation can strain the drain line or cause pressure issues that impact the rest of the plumbing system.
- Recurring Clogs: Food buildup can spread into the main drain line.
- Hidden Leaks: Small leaks may cause long-term moisture damage.
- Pipe Stress: Poor alignment can weaken connections over time.
Addressing disposal problems early helps protect your entire plumbing system.
Do I Need to Replace Other Plumbing Fixtures When Installing a Garbage Disposal?
Sometimes, yes. A garbage disposal works best when it is supported by compatible plumbing components. Older drains, corroded pipes, or poorly sized connections can limit performance. In some cases, repiping or replacing the drain assembly helps prevent leaks and backups. If there is a history of plumbing leaks or even a past burst pipe under the sink, upgrades may be necessary. During installation, we inspect your existing plumbing and recommend updates only if they are truly needed. The goal is reliable performance without unnecessary work.
What Regular Garbage Disposal Maintenance Can I Do to Prevent Costly Repairs?
As with other home appliances and fixtures, regular maintenance goes a long way toward giving you a garbage disposal that will run effectively when you need it to, all year long. If you schedule a licensed plumber to come in and look over the system once per year, you can rest easy knowing that it is clean and there is no damage that may result in needing extensive, costly repairs or having to replace your disposal. If you rely on your garbage disposal regularly to make your kitchen tasks more manageable, having regular maintenance performed is one of the best things you can do.
Replace your kitchen sink faucet today with Gene Johnson Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical.
Why Choose Gene Johnson?
Choosing the right plumber matters, especially for kitchen plumbing that you rely on every day. We take pride in being a trusted name in the region.
- Decades of Local Experience: We have served Seattle homeowners for generations, giving us deep knowledge of local plumbing systems.
- Same-Day Service Availability: We understand busy schedules and offer prompt service across the Greater Seattle area.
- Highly Trained Technicians: Our plumbers stay current on installation and repair techniques for modern garbage disposal units.
- Honest Recommendations: We explain options clearly and never push unnecessary replacements or upgrades.
- Full Plumbing Expertise: From drain cleaning service to complex plumbing issues, we handle it all in-house.
- Strong Warranties: Our work is backed by warranties that give you peace of mind.
- Respectful Home Service: We treat your kitchen and home with care, keeping work areas clean and organized.
When you choose trusted plumbing services in Seattle, WA, you want a team that stands behind its work and values your time.
It All Starts With the Installation
No matter how many repairs you have or how diligent you are with maintaining the garbage disposal, if it is not installed correctly, you will end up having problems throughout its lifespan. And, like most things in life, your garbage disposal will not last forever, and you will eventually need to replace it. When that time comes, choose a reputable, professional installer that includes garbage disposal replacement or installation as part of its regular list of services. Staying true to your budget is important, but cutting corners is not the way to do it. Take the time to find an installer that makes sense.
A properly working disposal helps keep your kitchen clean, your drain clear, and your plumbing system protected. Whether you are dealing with unusual noises, leaks, or planning an upgrade, our experienced plumbers are ready to help. Call Gene Johnson Heating, Cooling, Plumbing, and Electrical at 206.792.7495 in Seattle, WA, and the surrounding area, and we will schedule an appointment to get it working again or install a new one.
QUALITY SERVICE
Within Your Budget
The best plumbing, cooling, heating, and electrical services shouldn’t have to break the bank. That’s why we are happy to provide our customers with opportunities to save on their next service with us. Our current online deals are updated periodically, so there is something for everyone, whether you are a first-time customer or a long-time loyalist.
Here are some benefits of trusting Gene Johnson with your HVAC, Plumbing, and Electrical needs.
- Best value service in Seattle
- Always on-time arrival
- No mess left after a job
- Friendly team that truly cares about your safety and comfort
- Fixed right guarantee
- Upfront pricing
- Follow up calls to ensure your peace of mind
- Range of service options- no ultimatums!
Total reviews: 4581 | Average rating: 4.8
mike shannon
Luke Jacobsen
Mark gave excellent service clearing my shower drain
Gregg Strandberg
Just a small bathroom sink job but Mark was fantastic. All is now functioning properly
Adam Schulman
Steven and Edgar were professional and timely – great communication as well. Would recommend!
Peter Heymann
Summary: Gene Johnson sent a tech (Matt Hunter) to address our home heating system, which was sending no heat at all to many rooms in the house. Our system is a wonky spaghetti mess of piping, controllers and pumps that theoretically delivers hot water to legacy cast iron radiators, new floorboard radiators, and seven in-floor hydronic loops. It has not worked as intended since we bought the house 15 years ago. It has likely *never worked right since the last house renovation 25 years go (2000), given the horrid “design” that was implemented then. Matt was the first tech ever to figure out how it all works. He repaired every failed component and problem that could be fixed, given our disastrous configuration. We are completely satisfied with Matt’s work and privately are enormously grateful that this money hole has now been tamed.
Our house dates to 1918, so challenges in upgrading the heating plant in 2000 were a certainty. However, the zoo in our HVAC room is nearly indecipherable. I have hired one HVAC company after another over last 15 years to make sense of it, at great expense.
Ninety percent of past techs gave incomplete explanations, proposed the replacement of a pump or controller, or the addition of a valve, and then left. Some were honest enough to simply offer a theory of how it works, while admitting they didn’t know, and then left us with a big bill.
Enter Matt Hunt. Not sure if Matt looks the part of genius plumber, but then I’ve never seen one till now. He’s a little nerdy perhaps (like me) and also a dirt bike racer. Whatever: Matt alone successfully unraveled the mysteries of our home hot-water distribution plant. He confirmed that the entire house is controlled by two thermostats, which are, incredibly, located just 16 feet apart on the first floor. (One controls all hot water distributed on the north side of the house; one controls all hot water sent to the south side. Go figure.) Matt explained why heat often doesn’t reach the upper floors even when the system is “working” (if it’s warm on the first floor, naturally, no heat is available to the second and third floors).
Matt discovered that the pressure in the water distribution lines was only 4PSI (target range: 13-22PSI), determined that the cause was huge amounts of air in the pipes, and the culprit was a broken refill valve. The new valve includes a pressure gauge so we can now see when the pressure in the water lines has fallen so low that the system can’t deliver hot water to the upper stories. He also spotted problems with the air eliminator, i.e. the “burping” component that normally should purge some/most of the air. He has proposed replacing that (agreed).
Matt drained the pipes on all floors; refilled the lines; purged all zones of air; and replaced the (broken) thermal expansion tank. Heat began to flow again to all rooms. He demosnttated that heat only happens on the upper floors provided that the two first-floor thermostats that control distribution to the entire home are below target temps and are calling for heat.
Matt mapped every radiator and hydronic zone to the main thermostat controlling it. He also determined which rooms/areas the hydronic thermostats control. (Of course, the hydronic thermostats, which are sprinkled around the house, are comic: they only perform as intended when the primary thermostats on the first floor are delivering hot water.) Matt gave us a detailed written explanation of what each component does and how it’s controlled.
Matt did all this in less time than some prior techs took to try and ultimately give up.
Our home heating system is a design wreck and will never deliver heat around the house reliably. However, with the fixes (and insights) mATT delivered, we now get heat when we want it with some work-arounds (like cooling down the first floor therostats). Further, we understand how to spot problems and fix the system going forward.
Thank you, Matt!
Matt & Tammy Sanchez
Steven came out to troubleshoot our tankless water heater and quickly identified the issue as a clogged condensate pump. What really stood out was the time he took to explain everything in detail. He walked me through the condition of the unit, the manufacturer’s recommended lifespan, and the condensation damage and rust that had already occurred due to the blockage.
Steven gave me honest, thoughtful guidance and helped me make an informed decision about replacing the unit, without any pressure whatsoever. He clearly explained that we could have gotten by with a descaling for now, but also helped me understand why replacing it would likely save money and headaches over the long run.
He was patient, knowledgeable, and answered all of my questions thoroughly. I really appreciated his transparency and professionalism, and I would absolutely recommend Steven and Gene Johnson to anyone needing plumbing or tankless water heater service. Thanks!
Casey Feaster
Very knowledgeable. Mike Keane really did an awesome job. Highly recommend these guys for all your plumbing needs. Definitely going to be a life long customer.
Dana McKenzie
Joseph F came for a leak we were experiencing along with his partner and was beyond helpful. We have a 4 month old and also had a contractor there at the same time. He was kind enough to entertain our little one in his swing while my husband was moving some things in the bathroom and I was talking to the contractor. So unexpected and beyond the call they came out for. Thank you!
amy Wesner
Jaren was great to work with! he came for the drain and returned for the toilet. Ran into some issues with both but resolved them quickly. good Job!
Chuck Henry
Right on time, quickly fixed the problems, friendly
Shawna Lawrence
Sean Smith is a great plumber that does a great job!!! Very happy with the new set up!! He was compassionate & professional all from day 1. We greatly recommend him!!!! Thank you Sean for all that you did & staying late to get the job done. ❤️
Anita Siefert
Michael K was extremely thorough and very easy to understand when explaining our plumbing problem. I would highly highly recommend using him in the future.
David Turner
Jaren replaced the kitchen faucet. He did a great job!
Simone Wells
Michael K. did a phenomenal job helping with our plumbing issue. He was professional, courteous, and detailed in his work. He made everything very easy to understand, and worked very efficiently from start to finish. I would recommend him and Gene Johnston Plumbing to anyone looking for a reliable plumber that’s a true professional.
Benjamin Gauthey
Great service!
Tereas Kelmendi
Worked with Mark O. this morning who was knowledgeable, helpful, and able to resolve this clog within 30 minutes. Thanks Mark!
Sharon Haensly
Steven did a great, thorough job of inspecting systems for a house that we were going to buy.
Danferd Henke
Mike arrived on time, quickly diagnosed our problem and suggested a workable solution, which he then implemented. We felt well served.
Danny Boy
Very outstanding service!
Stephen and Joe appreciate your detail job
John Whitley
We had a clogged drain in our Weird Old House that was above the proverbial pay grade of our usual maintenance folks. Mike from Gene Johnson Plumbing sorted it out quickly and efficiently, and even informed us how we can maintain it ourselves going forwards. Great service!