Garburator Repair Services

A humming garburator that doesn't spin is usually jammed. Something hard — like a bone fragment, fruit pit, or small utensil — is stuck between the impeller plate and the grind ring. The motor is getting power (that's the hum) but can't turn. Turn it off immediately, as running a jammed motor can burn it out. Many jams can be cleared by inserting an Allen key into the hex socket on the bottom of the unit and manually rotating the impeller. If that doesn't work, a technician can clear it quickly.

A leak from the bottom of the garburator (not the connections) usually means the internal seal between the motor housing and the grind chamber has failed. This is often not worth repairing because it typically means the unit is near the end of its lifespan — most garburators last 8-12 years. Replacement is usually more economical and takes about an hour. We carry popular models on our service vehicles for same-day installation.

A garburator repair in Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, or Port Moody — such as clearing a jam, replacing a splash guard, or fixing a wiring issue — typically costs between $225 and $250. A full garburator replacement including a new unit and installation runs between $275 and $500, depending on the model and horsepower. We provide upfront pricing before starting any work.

Avoid putting fibrous foods (celery, corn husks, artichokes), starchy pastes (rice, pasta in large quantities), grease or cooking oil, coffee grounds in bulk, bones, fruit pits, and any non-food items down the garburator. These are the most common causes of jams and drain clogs we see in Tri-Cities homes. Always run cold water for 15 seconds before and after using the garburator to flush debris through the drain line.

A smelly garburator usually has food residue stuck under the splash guard or on the grind chamber walls. The best home remedy is to grind a handful of ice cubes with a half cup of coarse salt and a few lemon or lime wedges — the ice and salt scour the chamber, and the citrus deodorizes. If the smell persists, there may be a buildup deeper in the drain line that needs professional clearing.

If your garbage disposal is over 8 years old and the repair involves the motor, internal seals, or grind ring, replacement is usually the better investment. New garbage disposals are more efficient, quieter, and start at around $350 installed. If the issue is a simple jam, a bad switch, or a loose connection, a repair makes more sense regardless of age. Our technicians will give you an honest assessment and let you choose.