How Much Does Garbage Disposal Repair Cost in 2025?

This article was updated using automation technology and thoroughly reviewed for accuracy by HomeAdvisor Editor Ryan Noonan.

Garbage disposal repair costs average $230, with most homeowners spending between $140 and $310. While minor issues like a faulty seal might be an easy fix, more complex problems such as broken grinders often require professional attention. A malfunctioning garbage disposal can disrupt your daily routine, making your kitchen sink less functional until it's repaired. To ensure safety and proper function, it's best to hire a professional to handle repairs

Garbage Disposal Repair Cost Factors

Several factors influence the cost of repairing a garbage disposal. Understanding these factors can help you anticipate the expenses and make informed decisions about repairs.

Damage

Significant damage to your garbage disposal, such as issues following a severe leak, may necessitate electrical repairs or structural work.

Materials

The cost to repair your garbage disposal depends on the specific parts that need fixing or replacement. A typical unit includes a grinding assembly, an electrical system, and seals. Common parts that may require attention and their respective cost ranges are listed below.

Labor

Plumbers charge between $50 and $120 per hour for labor, with a possible minimum site fee of $50 for smaller jobs. Rates vary based on your location, especially if the plumber charges travel fees. Emergency repairs during weekends or holidays often come with higher costs.

Garbage Disposal Repair Cost by Problem

Here are some common garbage disposal issues homeowners face, along with their typical repair costs:

Leak

Repairing a leak costs $150 to $700. Leaks are often caused by worn-out seals. While you can replace the faulty part, it might be more cost-effective to replace the entire unit if it's showing signs of aging.

Clog

Repairing a clog costs $150 to $200. Clogs may require clearing the pipes or plumbing beyond the sink or shower drain.

Jam

It costs $0 to $100 to repair a jam. You can attempt to clear a jam yourself by cleaning the garbage disposal. If the problem persists, call a professional for further assistance.

Won't Turn On or Off

If your garbage disposal won’t turn on or off, you will pay $0 to $100 to fix the problem. Try these steps:

• Reset the circuit breaker.

• Press the outlet's test button, if available.

• Press the unit's red reset button under the sink.

• Plug the disposal into the other outlet to check if the switch works.

If none of these solutions resolve the issue, it’s time to call a garbage disposal repair technician near you.

Garbage Disposal Replacement Costs

The average cost to replace a garbage disposal unit is $550. Professionals charge $50 to $100 per hour for installation, and it takes an hour for a skilled plumber or handyperson to complete the job.

If you have plumbing experience, you can replace the unit yourself, but additional materials will cost $25 if you DIY. This represents negligible savings compared to the cost of a simple, professional installation.

You should repair your garbage disposal for minor issues like a faulty seal or a small jam, while replacement becomes necessary when substantial damage occurs, such as a broken motor or extensive electrical faults. Severe issues demand a complete unit replacement to ensure safety and optimal performance.

Signs you should replace your garbage disposal include if you notice persistent leaking, slower than normal processing of waste, frequent clogs and problems, or excessive noise. Ask an experienced plumber whether repair or replacement is the better decision in your situation.

Maintenance and Care Tips

Regular maintenance and proper use can prevent most garbage disposal issues. Follow these tips to keep your unit running smoothly:

• Use cold water when running the disposal to keep food waste in separate pieces and help solids flow through the drains.

• Run water for a few seconds before adding food waste, and continue running water for at least 15 seconds after disposing of the waste.

• Avoid putting the following foods into the disposal, as they can cause clogs: onions, potatoes, pasta, rice, bread, and pastries. Dispose of these items in the trash instead.

DIY vs. Hiring a Plumber to Fix My Garbage Disposal

While a knowledgeable homeowner might handle minor repairs, certain situations warrant hiring a professional. Call a plumber when DIY attempts haven't resolved the issue, or the repair is more complex than anticipated. For safety reasons, it’s vital to hire a professional plumber near you if the repair involves extensive plumbing, electrical, or structural work.

How HomeAdvisor Gets Its Cost Data

No place is more important than your home, which is why HomeAdvisor connects homeowners with local pros to transform their houses into homes they love. To help homeowners prepare for their next project, HomeAdvisor provides readers with accurate cost data and follows strict editorial guidelines. After a project is complete, we survey real customers about the costs to develop the pricing data you see, so you can make the best decisions for you and your home. We pair this data with research from reputable sources, including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, academic journals, market studies, and interviews with industry experts—all to ensure our prices reflect real-world projects.