An Austell disposal that hums, makes no sound or leaks usually has a jam, a tripped overload, a worn gasket or a failed motor. A few safe checks may get it going; if not, a plumber can repair or replace it. Call the number on this page to be connected with a local plumber in Austell.
Austell's city systems
Austell began as a healing-springs settlement and railroad depot town, and it still runs its own utilities. The city's Sanitary Sewer Division maintains more than 51 miles of sewer, and wastewater flows to the Cobb County system for treatment; the Water Division field office is (770) 944-4336. Addresses with an Austell mailing address outside the city's service area are likely on Cobb County Water System instead. Census survey figures give a median build year of 1993, with about 41% of homes from before 1980, so older drains are common. Austell requires plumbing permits to install, remove, alter or replace plumbing or drain piping and fixtures, through its online portal. Ask your plumber how that applies.
Quick safe checks
- Kill the power first. Flip the switch off and pull the plug under the sink before touching anything.
- Look, don't grab. A flashlight shows what's in the chamber; tongs remove it safely.
- Free the plate from below. The wrench that came with the unit fits the center socket underneath; rock it back and forth.
- Pop the reset back in. The thermal overload trips when the motor strains; press it and try once more.
- Trace any leak. A paper towel wiped around the flange, hose and housing shows where water is getting out.
- Check your bill. Austell-mailing addresses outside the city service area may be on Cobb County water and sewer.
- No boiling water or caustics. Both can harm the seals and plastic drain parts.
- Know when to quit. Two failed resets usually mean a worn motor or a deeper jam.
Symptoms and likely causes
| Symptom | Likely cause |
|---|---|
| Sink stays slow after the fix | Buildup in an older drain line behind the wall |
| Buzzing with the plate locked | A bone, pit or utensil jammed in the chamber |
| Drip at the top | Loose mount or dried-out plumber's putty at the sink flange |
| Other fixtures gurgle too | Main drain or sewer lateral, not the disposal |
| No sound at all | Tripped reset, breaker, switch or failed motor |
| Water from the bottom | Internal seal failure; the unit usually needs replacing |
What affects the cost
- Repair or replacement, the biggest single factor.
- Disposal grade: entry, mid-size or heavy-duty motor.
- Condition of the trap and tailpiece, especially in older kitchens.
- Electrical hookup, cord-and-plug or hardwired.
- Any permit the job requires, and its inspection.
Garbage Disposals questions in Austell
Who handles the permit if a disposal job needs one here?
Who do I call if the backup is in the sewer and not the disposal?
Will an older kitchen drain cause trouble for a new disposal?
Why does my dishwasher leave dirty water sitting in the sink?
More plumbing services in Austell
Garbage Disposals nearby
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