Garbage Disposal Repair in San Diego Area

Same-day service from Carlsbad to San Diego. Licensed technicians. All major brands repaired.

Same-Day Service
Free Diagnostic
90-Day Warranty
Call Now: (619) 772-7213
20+
Years Experience
2,500+
Repairs Completed
4.9★
Average Rating
Same Day
Service Available

Transparent Pricing You Can Trust

No surprises. No hidden fees. Just honest service in San Diego County.

$0 Diagnostic Fee
Waived with Repair
No Hidden Charges
All costs disclosed upfront
Written Estimate
Before any work begins
Most Garbage Disposal Repairs
$95 - $300
Final price depends on issue complexity and parts needed

How Our Repair Process Works

Getting your garbage disposal repaired in Del Mar and throughout San Diego County is simple and straightforward with our proven 4-step process.

1

Call or Book Online

Contact us and describe the issue with your garbage disposal. We'll schedule a convenient time for service.

2

Free Diagnostic

Our licensed technician inspects your unit and accurately diagnoses the problem.

3

Upfront Quote

Receive a written estimate with transparent pricing. No obligation to proceed.

4

Expert Repair

We fix it with quality parts and back our work with a 90-day warranty.

⏱️ Average repair time: 30-90 minutes

Common Garbage Disposal Problems We Fix

Whether you're in Carlsbad, Encinitas, or anywhere in the 92130 area, we've seen and fixed every type of garbage disposal issue. Here are the most common problems our customers experience.

Won't Turn On

Your disposal won't power up, makes no sound, or the reset button keeps popping. This often indicates electrical issues like a tripped circuit breaker, faulty wall switch, or burned-out motor. Sometimes the internal thermal overload protector needs to be reset.

Typical Cost: $95-$250

Jammed or Stuck

Unit hums but blades don't spin, indicating something is stuck in the grinding chamber. Common culprits include silverware, bottle caps, bones, or fibrous materials. The flywheel may be locked up and needs manual rotation or foreign objects removed.

Typical Cost: $75-$175

Leaking Water

Water pooling under the sink indicates a leak from the disposal unit. Common sources include worn sink flange seals, loose drain connections, cracked disposal body, or failed gaskets. Leaks can cause water damage and must be addressed promptly.

Typical Cost: $100-$250

Clogged Drain

Water drains slowly or backs up into the sink. The disposal drain pipe, P-trap, or main drain line may be clogged with accumulated food waste. Sometimes the dishwasher connection becomes blocked. Requires professional drain cleaning or pipe disassembly.

Typical Cost: $150-$300

Excessive Noise

Loud grinding, rattling, or metal-on-metal sounds coming from the unit. Could indicate loose mounting hardware, worn bearings, damaged impeller blades, or foreign objects stuck in the grinding chamber. Continuous loud operation requires immediate attention.

Typical Cost: $110-$225

Bad Odors

Foul smells emanating from the drain even after running the disposal. Food particles trapped in the grinding chamber or splash guard decompose and create odors. May indicate inadequate flushing, bacterial buildup, or trapped debris requiring deep cleaning.

Typical Cost: $95-$180

Should You Repair or Replace Your Garbage Disposal?

Not sure if repair makes sense? We'll help you make the right decision for your situation in San Diego County.

Repair Is Worth It If:

  • Unit is less than 8 years old and has been properly maintained
  • Simple fix like a jam or clog that costs under $175
  • Premium brand (InSinkErator Evolution, Moen Pro Series) worth $300+
  • Repair costs less than 50% of a new comparable unit
  • Only one component failed (like a leaking seal or loose connection)

Consider Replacing If:

  • Unit is 10+ years old and showing signs of deterioration
  • Motor has failed and repair costs exceed $250
  • Frequent problems requiring repairs multiple times in one year
  • Significant rust or corrosion visible on the unit body
  • Budget model (under $150 original cost) needing repairs over $150

Not Sure? Get Expert Advice

Our technicians in Del Mar and throughout San Diego can assess your garbage disposal and provide an honest recommendation. We'll never push you toward an unnecessary repair.

Call us for a free consultation

Brands We Service

Expert repair for all major garbage disposal manufacturers in Carlsbad, Encinitas, and San Diego

InSinkErator
All Models
Waste King
All Series
Moen
GX & EX Series
GE
All Models
Whirlpool
All Models
KitchenAid
All Models
Frigidaire
All Models
Waste Maid
All Models

And many more brands!

Don't see your brand listed? Give us a call. We service virtually all garbage disposal makes and models throughout San Diego County.

Why Choose Steve's Appliance Service?

Same-Day Service

We know you need your garbage disposal working. That's why we offer same-day appointments throughout Del Mar, Carlsbad, and San Diego when you call before noon.

Licensed Technicians

Our repair specialists have 10+ years of experience and ongoing training. They're licensed, insured, and background-checked for your peace of mind.

Upfront Pricing

No hidden fees or surprise charges. We provide a written estimate before any work begins. You approve the price, then we proceed. Simple and honest.

90-Day Warranty

Every repair is backed by our comprehensive 90-day warranty on both parts and labor. If something goes wrong, we'll make it right at no extra cost.

Garbage Disposal Maintenance Tips

Extend the life of your garbage disposal and prevent costly repairs with these simple maintenance practices.

  1. 1

    Run Cold Water During Use

    Always use cold water when running your disposal. Cold water solidifies fats and oils, allowing them to be chopped up and flushed through the system. Keep water running for 15-30 seconds after grinding stops to flush everything through the drain pipes.

  2. 2

    Clean Regularly with Ice and Citrus

    Every 1-2 weeks, grind a handful of ice cubes with rock salt to clean the grinding chamber and sharpen the blades. Follow with citrus peels (lemon or orange) to freshen and deodorize. This prevents buildup and keeps your disposal smelling fresh.

  3. 3

    Avoid Problematic Foods

    Never put these items in your disposal: grease, oils, fats, coffee grounds, eggshells, potato peels, pasta, rice, bones (large or cooked), fibrous vegetables (celery, corn husks), or non-food items. These cause jams, clogs, and damage.

  4. 4

    Feed Waste Gradually

    Don't overload the disposal. Feed food waste gradually while the unit is running rather than dumping everything at once. Large amounts can jam the motor or cause clogs. Turn on the water first, then the disposal, then add food scraps slowly.

  5. 5

    Use It Regularly

    Run your disposal regularly, even if you don't have food waste. This prevents rust, keeps parts moving freely, and ensures any residual food doesn't harden. Running it weekly with just water helps maintain the unit and prevents odors.

⚠️ Warning Signs - Call Immediately

If you notice any of these issues in Del Mar or anywhere in the 92130 area, call us immediately at (619) 772-7213:

  • Water leaking from under the sink or from the disposal unit
  • Disposal hums but blades won't turn or move
  • Reset button keeps popping out repeatedly
  • Unusual loud grinding, rattling, or metal-on-metal sounds
  • Persistent foul odors that won't go away with cleaning

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does garbage disposal repair cost in San Diego?

Garbage disposal repair costs in Del Mar and throughout the San Diego area typically range from $95 to $300, depending on the specific issue and parts required. Simple fixes like clearing a jam or resetting the unit usually cost $75-$145, while more complex issues involving leaks, motor problems, or extensive clogs run $150-$300. Our diagnostic fee is always waived when you proceed with the repair. We provide upfront, written estimates before any work begins, so you'll know exactly what to expect. Keep in mind that for older units (10+ years) or budget disposals, replacement might be more economical than repair.

Do you offer same-day garbage disposal repair service?

Yes! We offer same-day garbage disposal repair service throughout Carlsbad, Del Mar, Encinitas, Escondido, Poway, San Diego, San Marcos, and Vista. If you call us before noon, we can typically schedule a technician to arrive the same day, subject to availability. Our goal is to get your garbage disposal back up and running as quickly as possible. Most garbage disposal repairs take just 30-90 minutes once our technician arrives and completes the diagnosis. We understand how important your kitchen appliances are to your daily routine, which is why we prioritize fast, efficient service throughout San Diego County. Call (619) 772-7213 now to schedule your appointment.

What garbage disposal brands do you repair?

We repair all major garbage disposal brands including InSinkErator (all models including Evolution series, Badger series, and Cover Control), Waste King (L-series and Legend models), Moen (GX Series, EX Series, Host, and Prep Series), GE, Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Frigidaire, Waste Maid, and many more. Our technicians have extensive training and experience with continuous feed disposals, batch feed models, and disposals ranging from 1/3 HP to 1.25 HP motors. Whether you have a compact unit or a high-powered professional model, we can diagnose and repair it. Even if your brand isn't listed here, give us a call - we service virtually all garbage disposal makes and models throughout the San Diego area.

How long does garbage disposal repair take?

Most garbage disposal repairs are completed in 30-90 minutes once our technician arrives at your location in San Diego County. This includes the diagnostic process, identifying the problem, and making the repair. Simple issues like clearing jams, fixing leaks from loose connections, or replacing worn gaskets typically take 30-50 minutes. More complex repairs involving motor issues, extensive clogs, or replacing damaged components may take 60-90 minutes. In rare cases where we need to order a specific part not currently in stock, we'll complete the diagnosis on the first visit and return once the part arrives - usually within 1-3 business days. We always work efficiently to minimize disruption to your schedule while ensuring quality workmanship.

Is it worth repairing a garbage disposal or should I buy a new one?

This depends on several factors. Repair is worth it if you have a premium brand (like InSinkErator Evolution or Moen Pro series) worth $250+, the unit is less than 8 years old, or it's a simple fix under $175. The general rule of thumb is the "50% rule" - if the repair cost is less than half the price of a comparable new unit, repair makes sense. However, consider replacement if your garbage disposal is 10+ years old, it's a budget model under $150 and needs repairs over $150, or it requires multiple expensive parts like a new motor (which can cost $200-$300 alone). We'll always give you an honest assessment. Our technicians will explain what's wrong, provide repair cost, and help you make an informed decision. We'll never push you toward an unnecessary repair - if replacement makes more sense, we'll tell you. Call us for a free consultation and we'll help you determine the best course of action for your specific situation.

Do you provide a warranty on garbage disposal repairs?

Absolutely! Every garbage disposal repair we perform is backed by our comprehensive 90-day warranty covering both parts and labor. This means if the same issue recurs within 90 days of our repair, we'll fix it again at no additional cost to you. Our warranty demonstrates our confidence in the quality of our work and the parts we use. We use only high-quality replacement components designed to meet or exceed original manufacturer specifications. If any covered issue arises during the warranty period, simply give us a call at (619) 772-7213 and we'll schedule a return visit promptly. This warranty applies to all repairs we complete in Del Mar, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Escondido, Poway, San Marcos, Vista, and throughout San Diego County. Your satisfaction and peace of mind are our top priorities.

Get Your Garbage Disposal Fixed Today

Serving Del Mar, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Escondido, Poway, San Diego, San Marcos, Vista and all of San Diego County

(619) 772-7213
7 Days/Week
Including Weekends
$0 Diagnostic Fee*
Waived with Repair
90 Days Warranty
Parts & Labor

*Diagnostic fee of $75 applies if you choose not to proceed with repair. Same-day service available when you call before noon.

Request Service Today