Resolve Sink Issues Quickly with Trusted Under-Sink Repair Solutions
Reliable Under-Sink Installation, Repairs, and Replacement at a Fair Price
Family-owned | Fast Service | Honest Pricing
Restore Kitchen Flow with Fast, Reliable Under-Sink Solution
A Food waste system is one of the most overlooked appliances until it stops working. Whether you’re dealing with foul odors, strange noises, or a complete shutdown, Carini Home Services provides expert repair services throughout San Diego and nearby areas. Our licensed plumbers handle installation, replacement, and same-day emergency fixes to restore full function quickly.
Have you already purchased a unit from Lowe’s or Home Depot? No problem; we’ll install it safely and correctly. We work with trusted brands like InSinkErator, Moen, American Standard, and Waste King.
Carini Home Services also offers a full range of plumbing support, including unit upgrades, removals, and new system setups tailored to your kitchen.
Prevent Sink Backups with Safe, Efficient Waste Handling Solutions
Need a new unit, quick repair, or full replacement? Carini handles all major disposal brands, including InSinkErator, Moen, Waste King, and more. We install models from Home Depot, Lowe’s, and other retailers, always with a safe, precise setup.
If your current unit is leaking or outdated, we’ll recommend the right replacement based on your kitchen and usage. Most disposals last 8–12 years, and typical replacement costs range from $200 to $500.
Under-sink RO Filter
What’s Really Behind Frequent Kitchen Drain Clogs
Understanding the causes of a clogged garbage disposal can prevent unnecessary damage and extend the life of your unit. It is crucial to identify these causes early on, as it can help in preventing significant damage that may lead to garbage disposal replacement. Here are some common reasons behind a clogged garbage disposal:
- Incorrect Usage: One of the leading causes of clogs is incorrect usage of the garbage disposal unit. Many people make the mistake of treating their garbage disposals like trash cans, throwing in all types of waste without considering if the disposal can handle it.
- Grease and Fat: Pouring grease or fat down the sink is a surefire way to cause a clog. These substances solidify as they cool, sticking to the walls of the drain lines and eventually causing a blockage.
- Excessive Food Waste: Disposing of large amounts of food waste, especially starchy or fibrous foods, can cause a clog. Items such as potato peels, coffee grounds, and eggshells can accumulate over time, leading to a clogged garbage disposal.
- Non-Compostable Items: Disposal units are designed for biodegradable food scraps. When non-compostable items like plastic wrappers or glass enter the unit, they can’t be ground down and can cause a clog.
- Lack of Cold Water: It might surprise you, but not using cold water during operation can lead to a clog. The cold water helps solidify any grease or oils so they can be chopped up by the disposal.
- Insufficient Water Flow: Running your disposal without enough water can also cause a clog. Water helps to flush down the food waste into the sewer system.
- Old Unit: Over time, an old disposal unit may start to have functionality issues. The blades can become dull, resulting in less effective grinding of waste and leading to potential clogs.
Know When It’s Time to Fix or Swap Out Your Kitchen Unit
I’m not sure if your disposal is on its last leg. Look out for these common signs:
- Humming sound but no blade movement
- The reset button keeps tripping.
- Bad smells from the drain
- Leaking disposal unit under the sink
- Clogs in the kitchen sink drain
- Water is backing up into the sink.
- It won’t turn on even after resetting.
🔧 How do you fix a garbage disposal that won’t spin?
Try pressing the red reset button under the unit. If that doesn’t work, it may be jammed, or the motor could be failing, so it’s time to call Carini.
Understanding the Cost Breakdown for a New Kitchen Unit Setup
Garbage disposal installation costs typically include labor, materials, and any plumbing/electrical work needed.
- Installation only: $250–$500+
- New unit + install: $350–$700+
- Home Depot install price: Varies by contractor; typically $150–$300+ (unit not included)
- Lowe’s install cost: Usually $150–$250+, with limitations on old unit removal
We beat big-box pricing and include warranty protection and cleanup with every install.
Approved and Avoidable Waste for Kitchen Sink Use
Safe to grind:
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Soft fruits & veggies
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Ice cubes
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Citrus peels
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Leftovers in small amounts
Avoid grinding:
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Grease, fats, and oils
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Eggshells, potato peels, rice, and coffee grounds
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Fibrous veggies (corn husks, celery)
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Non-food items (plastic, bones, wrappers)
Key Factors to Review Ahead of a New Unit Setup
Before setting up a new disposal unit, it helps to understand a few essential details. Horsepower matters: 1/3 to 1/2 HP models are suitable for apartments or light-use households, while 3/4 HP works well for most kitchens. For larger families or frequent cooking, a 1 HP or greater unit offers added strength and durability.
Most installations take 1 to 2 hours, depending on whether the necessary electrical and plumbing connections are already in place. Standard setups typically use a 1.5 to 2-inch drain line, and we’ll always check compatibility before getting started.
Some homeowners try to install units themselves, but hiring a licensed plumber ensures a clean, reliable setup with full warranty coverage and long-term peace of mind.
Finding the Right Match with Kitchen Unit Styles and Trusted Brands
Garbage disposals come in two types: continuous feed units, which run with the switch on and are great for fast cleanup, and batch feed models, which only activate with a drain stopper for added safety and are ideal for families with kids.
Carini installs and services top brands like InSinkErator, Moen, Waste King, Glacier Bay, American Standard, and GE. Whether your unit came from Home Depot, Lowe’s, or another supplier, we’ll install or repair it with expert care.
Trusted Solutions Backed by Experience and Local Care
- Licensed, bonded, and insured
- Same-day emergency service is available
- 100% satisfaction guarantee
- Honest pricing without high-pressure sales
- Family-owned since 2006
Local Help for Fast, Reliable Kitchen System Support
We serve residential and commercial clients throughout the following:
- Central: Mission Hills, North Park, Hillcrest
- East: El Cajon, Lakeside, Alpine
- Coastal: Del Mar, La Jolla, Point Loma
- South: Chula Vista, Imperial Beach, National City
- North: Poway, Escondido, Oceanside
Carini Home Services Reviews
“I appreciate Adan’s courtesy and help with our garbage disposal and plumbing around the kitchen sink. He found our problem, walked me through the issue, and resolved it with professionalism. Thank you!”
-Robbie M.
“I highly recommend AJ, he helped me fixed my sink disposal within minutes and showed me what was wrong with it.”
-F. F.
Additional Plumbing Services
Issues with your garbage disposal can often signal bigger problems in your plumbing system, like clogged drains, buildup in your sewer line, damaged pipes, or the need for junk removal if old fixtures or debris are accumulating under your sink.
- Drain Repair for slow or blocked drains
- Drain Cleaning to clear food buildup, grease, and debris.
- Faucet Repair and Installation – For both Kitchen and Bathroom
- Hydro Jetting for high-pressure removal of stubborn clogs
- Pipe Lining to restore damaged pipes without digging
- Pipe Repair for leaks, corrosion, or broken lines
- Sewer Repair to fix backups or broken sewer pipes
- Water Filtration Systems to improve water quality and extend the life of your plumbing fixtures
If your garbage disposal issues are recurring or accompanied by other plumbing symptoms, our team can perform full plumbing inspections and recommend the best long-term solution.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I reset a garbage disposal?
Most garbage disposals have a red reset button on the bottom of the unit. If your disposal stops working, turn off the power, press the reset button, and try again. If it still doesn’t work, it may be jammed or need repair.
How do I unclog my garbage disposal?
Start by turning off the power. Use a hex key to manually rotate the blades and dislodge debris, then flush with cold water. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage the disposal and pipes.
Do I need to have a garbage disposal in my kitchen?
No garbage disposals are optional. Some homeowners prefer to compost food scraps instead. However, disposals offer convenience, reduce food waste in trash bins, and help prevent drain clogs when used properly.
How do I clean my garbage disposal and eliminate odors?
You can clean it by grinding up ice cubes and citrus peels and then flushing it with cold water. Baking soda and vinegar can also help remove residue and freshen the drain.
What’s the difference between a clogged disposal and a broken one?
A clog often causes slow draining or humming noises, while a broken disposal may not turn on at all, trip the reset button frequently, or leak from the bottom. We can diagnose and fix both issues quickly.
Can a garbage disposal damage my plumbing system?
Yes, if misused or installed incorrectly. Grinding fibrous foods, grease, or hard items like bones can clog pipes or cause wear on the unit. Our professional installation ensures safe, long-lasting performance.
100% Satisfaction Guarantee
- Parts & Labor Warranty
- 100% Satisfaction Guarantee
- Lifetime Craftsmanship
Get Your Discounted HVAC or Plumbing Repair This Week
Military and senior discounts can save you more on your next service, and free estimates are available for new installations and replacements. Book now and save on your next service!
Wells Fargo financing is subject to credit approval.