When the disposal quits in the middle of dinner cleanup, the sink backs up, the smell starts, and suddenly the kitchen isn't usable. We fix and replace garbage disposals across Chevy Chase and the rest of Montgomery County, and we tell you honestly whether yours is worth repairing.
Signs your disposal needs attention
- Slow draining or water backing up into the second bowl
- Grinding noises, rattling, or a smell that won't go away
- Humming sound but the blades don't spin (usually a jam or seized motor)
- Water dripping from the bottom of the unit — often an internal seal failure
- Leaks at the sink flange or the dishwasher connection
- Reset button trips again and again
Repair or replace?
Jams, tripped resets, loose flange mounts, and leaking drain connections are usually quick repairs. A leak coming from the body of the unit is different: once the internal seal fails, water reaches the motor and replacement is the only real fix. As a rule of thumb, if the disposal is over 8–10 years old and leaking from the housing, we'll recommend a new unit rather than charge you twice.
We'll show you where the problem is before recommending anything. If a 15-minute un-jam solves it, that's what you pay for.
Chevy Chase homes: what we see
Many older Chevy Chase homes have original cast-iron or galvanized drain lines under the kitchen. A new disposal won't fix a partially blocked drain beyond the trap, so we check the line while we're there.
Most Chevy Chase homes are on WSSC Water, which licenses plumbers in its service area and runs the cross-connection (backflow) program.
Choosing the right replacement
Horsepower matters more than most people think. A 1/3 HP unit struggles with anything fibrous; a 1/2 to 3/4 HP unit is the sweet spot for most families; a 1 HP unit is quieter and handles heavy use. We install major brands like InSinkErator and Waste King and can match your existing mount to keep the job simple.
If you're on a septic system (common on larger lots in rural parts of the county), ask about septic-rated models that add enzymes to help break down waste.
What's included when we install a disposal in Chevy Chase
Removal and disposal of the old unit, a new sink flange and plumber's putty seal, the correct electrical cord or hardwire connection, dishwasher knockout (if you have one), leak testing under full water load, and cleanup. You'll get the manufacturer warranty plus our workmanship warranty in writing.
How HiTrend handles garbage disposal jobs in Chevy Chase
- Call or text us with what the disposal is doing
- We diagnose on site and give a written price
- Repair or swap the unit (most jobs under 90 minutes)
- Test under load and check for leaks
- Clean up and walk you through the reset button and do's/don'ts
Safe things to try before you call
Turn off the switch (and the breaker if you're unsure). Press the red reset button on the bottom of the unit. If it hums but won't spin, insert a 1/4" hex key into the center socket underneath and work it back and forth to free the jam. Never put your hand in the disposal.
Serving Chevy Chase neighborhoods
We handle garbage disposal service throughout Chevy Chase, including Chevy Chase Village, Rollingwood, Chevy Chase Section 3, Martin's Additions, and the area around Chevy Chase Circle (ZIP 20815). Also nearby: Garbage Disposal in Bethesda, Garbage Disposal in Silver Spring, Garbage Disposal in North Bethesda, Garbage Disposal in Takoma Park.
Frequently asked questions
Will a disposal work with a septic system?
It can, but use it lightly and consider a septic-rated model. It adds solids to the tank, so pumping may be needed more often.
What size disposal should I get?
For most households, 1/2 to 3/4 HP. Go to 1 HP if you cook a lot or want quieter operation.
How long does a garbage disposal last in Chevy Chase?
Most last 8–12 years depending on use and model. Heavy use and hard items like bones or fruit pits shorten that.
Is it worth repairing an old disposal?
If it's jammed or has a loose connection, yes. If it's leaking from the housing, no — internal seal failure means replacement.