If a pipe suddenly bursts or a water heater starts leaking, every second counts. Yet many homeowners don’t know one of the most important details about their home’s plumbing system: where the main water shutoff valve is located.

At Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical, we’ve seen how quickly a minor plumbing issue can turn into major water damage simply because no one knew how to shut the water off. This guide is designed to help you feel confident, prepared, and ready—before an emergency happens.

What Is the Main Water Shutoff Valve?

Your main water shutoff valve controls the flow of water into your entire home. Turning it off stops water to all fixtures, appliances, and pipes at once.

Think of it as the emergency brake for your plumbing system. When something goes wrong, this valve is often the fastest way to prevent:

• Flooded floors

• Damaged walls and ceilings

• Mold growth

• Expensive repairs

Knowing where it is and how to use it can save thousands of dollars in damage.

Common Places to Find Your Main Water Shutoff Valve

While every home is a little different, most main water shutoff valves are located in one of these areas:

Inside the Home

• Basement near the front foundation wall

• Crawl space close to where the water line enters

• Utility or mechanical room

• Near the water heater (in some homes)

Outside the Home

• Underground near the street or sidewalk

• Inside a covered meter box

• Near the foundation on older homes

If your home is older or has been remodeled, the location may not be obvious—which is why it’s important to locate it ahead of time.

Why Knowing This Valve Matters in an Emergency

Plumbing emergencies rarely happen at a convenient time. A burst pipe, overflowing toilet, or failed washing machine hose can release gallons of water in minutes.

If you know where the shutoff valve is:

• You can stop the water immediately

• You reduce damage while waiting for a plumber

• You gain control in a stressful situation

If you don’t know where it is, you may be stuck watching water spread while trying to figure it out.

Situations Where You’ll Need to Shut Off the Water Fast

You should know how to shut off your water if:

• A pipe bursts or cracks

• A water heater is leaking

• A toilet overflows and won’t stop

• A washing machine or dishwasher hose breaks

• You’re leaving your home for an extended period

In all of these cases, shutting off the main water supply is the safest first step.

How to Turn Off the Main Water Shutoff Valve

Most shutoff valves work one of two ways:

• Gate or globe valve: Turn clockwise (right) until it stops

• Ball valve: Turn the handle so it’s perpendicular to the pipe

Once the valve is off, open a faucet to confirm the water has stopped flowing.

If the valve is stuck, corroded, or difficult to turn, do not force it. That’s a sign it may need professional replacement.

What If You Can’t Find or Operate Your Shutoff Valve?

Many homeowners discover their shutoff valve is:

• Hidden behind stored items

• Rusted or seized

• Outdated and unreliable

• Completely unknown in location

This is more common than you might think, especially in older homes. A plumber can:

• Locate the valve

• Test that it works properly

• Replace it with a modern, easy-to-use valve if needed

This small upgrade can make a huge difference during an emergency.

How Grasshopper Helps Homeowners Stay Prepared

At Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical, we believe preparation is just as important as repairs. During plumbing inspections or service visits, our team can:

• Help you locate your main water shutoff valve

• Ensure it’s in good working condition

• Recommend upgrades for easier emergency access

• Answer questions about your home’s plumbing layout

Our goal is to help you feel informed and confident—not caught off guard.

Don’t Wait for a Plumbing Emergency to Learn the Hard Way

Knowing where your main water shutoff valve is takes just a few minutes—but it can save you from major stress and damage later.

If you’re not sure where yours is, or if it hasn’t been checked in years, contact Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical today. We’ll help you prepare now, so you’re protected when it matters most.

Winters in Upstate New York are no joke. With long stretches of subfreezing temperatures, heavy snow, and brutal wind chills, your plumbing system faces constant stress. Frozen pipes are one of the most common and costly winter plumbing emergencies, often causing leaks, bursts, and extensive water damage.

At Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric, we help homeowners stay ahead of the cold. If you’re wondering what actually works when it comes to frozen pipe prevention in Upstate NY, here are the proven strategies that protect homes year after year.

Why Pipes Freeze in the First Place

A pipe freezes when the water inside it drops below 32°F, causing it to expand. That expansion increases pressure along the line, often leading to a rupture. In Upstate NY, where temperatures can drop well below zero, certain pipes are especially vulnerable:

• Pipes along exterior walls

• Plumbing in unheated crawl spaces, attics, or basements

• Outdoor spigots and hose bibs

• Under-insulated or older home plumbing systems

Once pipes freeze, they can burst quickly and cause thousands of dollars in damage. Prevention is essential, especially before the coldest days arrive.

1. Proper Insulation: The Most Effective First Line of Defense

If you’re wondering what actually works, insulation is at the top of the list.

Use Foam Pipe Insulation

Affordable and highly effective, foam sleeves keep pipes warmer by reducing heat loss. These are especially helpful for:

• Basement pipes

• Garage plumbing

• Crawl space lines

• Utility room pipes

Add Heat Tape for High-Risk Pipes

Heat tape or heat cables provide direct warmth to pipes prone to freezing. When installed correctly, they keep vulnerable lines safely above freezing—ideal for older homes or exposed sections of pipe.

2. Keep Consistent Indoor Heating (Even When You’re Away)

A common misconception is that turning down the heat saves money. In reality, deep temperature drops inside your home put pipes at risk, especially overnight.

To prevent freezing:

• Keep your thermostat at no lower than 55°F, even if you’re traveling.

• Open interior doors to allow warm air to circulate.

• Don’t block heating vents with furniture or storage.

A stable indoor temperature is one of the simplest and most reliable prevention methods.

3. Let Faucets Drip During Extreme Cold

When temperatures dip into the single digits or below, letting faucets drip from both the hot and cold sides can prevent pressure buildup—one of the leading causes of pipe bursts.

This works particularly well for:

• Long pipe runs

• Plumbing on exterior walls

• Homes with older piping systems

A slow drip keeps water moving, making it far less likely to freeze.

4. Seal Air Leaks Around Your Home

Cold drafts are a major contributor to frozen pipes, especially in areas like:

• Under sinks

• Around foundation cracks

• Near dryer vents

• Around windows and doors

• Behind kitchen or bathroom cabinets

Use caulk, foam insulation, or weatherstripping to seal gaps and stop frigid air from reaching vulnerable plumbing.

5. Disconnect and Winterize Outdoor Fixtures

Outdoor plumbing is always the first to freeze. Before the cold sets in:

• Disconnect hoses

• Drain outdoor faucets

• Install insulated hose bib covers

• Shut off the interior supply line to exterior spigots (if your home has one)

These small steps greatly reduce the risk of ice forming inside the line and spreading into your home.

6. Insulate or Heat Your Basement, Crawl Space, or Attic

Unheated spaces allow temperatures to drop fast. Adding insulation—or, in some cases, installing a small heating solution—can make a big difference.

Options include:

• Rigid foam board insulation

• Spray foam insulation

• Adding vents or fans to improve warm-air circulation

• Installing a low-wattage space heater (in safe, supervised areas only)

Even raising the temperature by a few degrees can help prevent freezing.

7. Know When to Call a Professional

If a pipe has already frozen, or you notice frost buildup, reduced water flow, or strange noises in your plumbing, it’s time to call a professional right away.

At Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric, we offer:

• Emergency frozen pipe repair

• Pipe thawing services

• Insulation and winterization upgrades

• Plumbing inspections for cold-weather readiness

It’s always better to address issues early before they turn into expensive repairs.

Protect Your Upstate NY Home This Winter

Frozen pipe prevention isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity in Upstate NY. With the right combination of insulation, heating, and proactive maintenance, you can safeguard your plumbing system and avoid costly damage.

If you want expert help winterizing your home, preparing vulnerable pipes, or inspecting your plumbing before the temperatures drop, the team at Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric is here for you.

Contact us today to schedule your winter plumbing checkup and keep your home protected all season long.

Have you ever turned on the tap and noticed a funny smell in your water? Whether it’s a sulfur-like “rotten egg” scent, a metallic odor, or something just plain off, unusual water smells are more than just unpleasant—they can signal underlying issues with your plumbing or water supply.

At Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical, we often get calls from homeowners concerned about water odor. Understanding what different smells mean can help you take action before small problems turn into costly repairs.

1. Common Water Smells and What They Mean

Different odors often point to specific plumbing or water quality issues:

Sulfur or “Rotten Egg” Smell

• Usually caused by hydrogen sulfide gas in your water heater or plumbing system.

• Can result from bacterial growth in the water heater tank or natural minerals in well water.

• While small amounts are typically harmless, persistent odors may indicate corrosion in the tank or bacterial contamination that requires professional attention.

Metallic or “Iron” Smell

• Often a rusty or metallic scent in the water.

• Usually comes from corroded pipes, especially in older homes with iron or galvanized plumbing.

• High iron content in well water can also cause a metallic taste and reddish stains on sinks and laundry.

Chlorine or Bleach-Like Smell

• Typically comes from municipal water treatment, where chlorine is added to kill bacteria.

• A strong chlorine odor could indicate that water is sitting too long in the pipes or that your home needs a filter or aeration system to remove excess chlorine.

Musty or Earthy Smell

• Often a sign of algae or bacterial growth in wells, storage tanks, or plumbing.

• Can sometimes result from stagnant water in pipes that aren’t used frequently.

2. What Your Plumbing Might Be Telling You

Water odors don’t appear out of nowhere—they usually signal a plumbing system issue. Common causes include:

• Old or corroded pipes: Metallic smells or rust-colored water can indicate aging plumbing that may need inspection or replacement.

• Water heater problems: A sulfur-like smell often comes from the water heater anode rod reacting with bacteria or minerals in the tank.

• Well water contamination: If you rely on a private well, certain smells may indicate natural mineral content or bacterial growth. Testing and treatment may be required.

• Stagnant water: Pipes that aren’t used regularly can develop odors and taste issues over time.

Ignoring these signs can lead to bigger problems, such as pipe damage, plumbing leaks, or even health risks if bacteria are present.

3. Steps You Can Take at Home

While some water smells require professional attention, there are steps you can take to minimize odor:

• Flush the system: Run taps for several minutes to clear out stagnant water.

• Clean your aerators: Remove and clean faucet screens where bacteria or sediment can accumulate.

• Check your water heater: If it’s old or producing a sulfur smell, consider flushing the tank or replacing the anode rod.

• Install a filtration system: Activated carbon filters can reduce chlorine, metallic, or musty odors.

These measures can improve taste and smell temporarily, but if the odor persists, it’s time to call a professional.

4. When to Call a Plumbing Professional

Persistent or strong odors should never be ignored. Call Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical if you notice:

• Sulfur or rotten egg smells coming from multiple faucets

• Rust-colored or metallic water

• Musty or earthy odors in your well water

• Sudden changes in water smell or taste

Our licensed technicians can test your water, inspect your plumbing system, and recommend the right solutions, whether it’s water treatment, pipe replacement, or water heater maintenance.

5. Final Word: Don’t Ignore Unusual Water Smells

Water is essential for daily life, and unusual odors are a warning sign that something might be wrong with your plumbing system. Early action can prevent bigger problems, protect your health, and save you money on costly repairs.

At Grasshopper Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electrical, we provide expert plumbing inspections, water testing, and maintenance solutions to keep your home’s water clean, safe, and odor-free.

Contact us today at gograsshopper.com to schedule a professional inspection and ensure your water is healthy and safe.

Water flows from every tap in your home, but do you really know what’s in it? For families in Clifton Park, NY, and throughout the region, tap water can contain everything from chlorine and sediment to minerals that leave stains and buildup throughout your home.

A whole-house water filtration system promises clean, safe water from every faucet, shower, and appliance. But with installation costs and various system options to consider, many homeowners wonder if it’s truly worth the investment.

This guide will help you weigh the benefits, costs, and signs that indicate your home could benefit from whole-house water filtration.

What Is a Whole-House Water Filtration System?

A whole-house water filtration system is installed at your main water line, ensuring every drop of water entering your home gets filtered before reaching your faucets, showers, and appliances. Unlike point-of-use filters that treat water at individual taps, this comprehensive approach addresses water quality throughout your entire home.

Several types of filtration systems are available:

Carbon filters excel at removing chlorine, improving taste, and eliminating odors that make water unpleasant to drink or smell.

Sediment filters catch particles like sand, dirt, and rust before they can damage your plumbing or stain your fixtures.

UV filters use ultraviolet light to neutralize bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms without adding chemicals.

Reverse osmosis systems target specific contaminants based on your water quality needs, providing the most thorough filtration option.

Signs You Might Need One

Several red flags indicate your home could benefit from whole-house water filtration:

Strange tastes or odors coming from your tap water signal the presence of chlorine, sulfur, or other contaminants. If your water tastes metallic, smells like rotten eggs, or has a chemical aftertaste, filtration can help.

Dry skin or dull hair after showering often results from hard water or chlorine exposure. Many residents notice softer skin and shinier hair after installing filtration systems.

Staining on sinks, tubs, or laundry typically comes from iron, manganese, or other minerals in your water supply. These same minerals can cause white or colored clothing to look dingy over time.

Scale buildup in appliances and fixtures shortens their lifespan and reduces efficiency. If you notice white, chalky deposits on your faucets or inside your coffee maker, the mineral content may be too high.

Well water users and residents in areas with known water quality issues should strongly consider whole-house filtration as a precautionary measure.

Benefits of a Whole-House Water Filtration System

Healthier Water for Drinking, Cooking & Bathing

Filtration systems remove harmful contaminants like lead, chlorine, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and microorganisms that could affect your family’s health. You’ll have confidence that every glass of water and every meal prepared with your tap water is as clean as possible.

Protects Plumbing and Appliances

Filtered water reduces scale buildup and mineral deposits that can damage water heaters, washing machines, dishwashers, and pipes. This protection helps your appliances run more efficiently and extends their operational life.

Better Skin, Hair & Laundry

Softer, cleaner water feels gentler on your skin and hair. Clothes washed in filtered water stay brighter and feel softer because harsh minerals and chemicals aren’t dulling fabrics or irritating sensitive skin.

Environmental & Cost Savings

Whole-house filtration reduces your family’s dependence on bottled water, cutting plastic waste and grocery costs. Additionally, appliances that run more efficiently thanks to cleaner water can lower your energy bills over time.

What Does Installation Involve?

Professional installation typically takes place where water enters your home, before it reaches your water heater. A licensed technician will assess your current plumbing setup and water quality to recommend the most appropriate system for your needs.

The installation process involves connecting the filtration system to your main water line and may require some plumbing modifications. Most installations can be completed in a few hours, though complex systems or unique home layouts may take longer.

At Grasshopper Heating Cooling & Plumbing, we start with a thorough water quality assessment to identify specific contaminants and recommend the right filtration approach for your Clifton Park home.

Is It Worth the Investment?

The upfront cost of a whole-house water filtration system varies depending on your water quality needs and the type of system you choose. However, many homeowners find the investment pays for itself through several long-term benefits.

Reduced bottled water purchases can save hundreds of dollars annually for families who regularly buy drinking water. Extended appliance life means fewer replacements and repair costs over time.

Beyond financial considerations, the peace of mind that comes with knowing your family has access to clean, safe water from every tap adds significant value. Many homeowners also find that water quality improvements increase their home’s overall value.

Why Choose Grasshopper Heating Cooling & Plumbing

As trusted experts in home comfort and water quality throughout Schenectady and the Capital Region, Grasshopper Heating Cooling & Plumbing provides honest assessments, professional installations, and dependable ongoing support.

Our team understands the unique water quality challenges facing homeowners in Clifton Park and surrounding areas. We serve as your one-stop shop for plumbing, HVAC, and electrical needs, ensuring all your home systems work together seamlessly.

Take the Next Step Toward Cleaner Water

Ready to discover what’s really in your water and explore your filtration options? Grasshopper Heating Cooling & Plumbing offers free in-home water quality assessments to help you make an informed decision about whole-house filtration.

Contact us today to schedule your assessment and learn how clean, filtered water can improve your family’s health, protect your home’s plumbing, and provide lasting peace of mind.

You turn on the faucet and notice water quickly pooling in the sink. Slow drains strike again. This frustrating plumbing issue often signals underlying problems that could worsen if you ignore them.

Slow drains can disrupt your daily routine and potentially lead to costly repairs. Grasshopper Heating & Cooling understands how concerning these symptoms can be for homeowners. 

What Causes Slow Drains?

Slow drains typically result from a gradual buildup inside your plumbing system. Hair, soap scum, grease, food particles, and mineral deposits accumulate on pipe walls over time. These materials create partial clogs that restrict water flow without completely blocking it.

You may notice the problem developing gradually. What once drained quickly now takes several minutes. This drain buildup can worsen over weeks or months until the water barely moves.

Warning Signs of Partial Clogs

Partial clogs display several telltale symptoms before they become complete blockages.

• Water that takes longer than usual to empty from sinks, tubs, or showers indicates potential problems.
• Unpleasant odors emanating from your drains suggest bacteria growing on trapped debris.
• Gurgling sounds when water drains can arise from air trapped behind partial obstructions.

You’re likely dealing with a localized issue if you notice these signs in a single fixture. However, you might have a more serious problem when multiple fixtures drain slowly simultaneously.

DIY Drain Cleaning Solutions

Several home remedies can address minor slow drain issues. You can try pouring a mixture of baking soda and vinegar down the drain. Wait 30 minutes, and then flush the drain with hot water.

Use a plunger for sinks to create pressure that can dislodge minor clogs. Avoid chemical drain cleaners that can corrode pipes, as these create more problems than they solve.

When Slow Drains Signal Bigger Problems

Sometimes, slow drains indicate more significant issues beyond simple partial clogs. A sewer line blockage affects multiple fixtures throughout your home simultaneously. Look for water backing up in toilets when you use the washing machine or shower.

A plumbing vent blockage restricts air circulation, causing slow drainage and gurgling sounds. Tree roots can infiltrate underground pipes, creating persistent, slow-draining issues that worsen over time. These situations require professional attention to prevent property damage and health hazards.

Professional Solutions for Stubborn Clogs

When DIY methods fail, professional intervention becomes necessary. Expert plumbers use specialized equipment, such as drain snakes, to physically remove blockages.

Video inspection cameras help identify the exact location and nature of obstructions. Hydro jetting employs powerful water pressure to scour pipe interiors, removing even the most stubborn buildup and preventing future plumbing obstructions. 

Prevent Future Slow Drains Today

We understand the frustration slow drains can cause in Clifton Park homes. Our experienced Grasshopper Heating & Cooling technicians specialize in diagnosing and resolving all drainage issues, from simple partial clogs to complex sewer problems.

Don’t let slow drains disrupt your home. Call us today at (518) 241-1758 for professional drain services in Clifton Park, New York, and the surrounding areas. 

When temperatures drop, your pipes are at risk of freezing, which can lead to costly water damage and major repairs. Taking the right precautions before winter sets in can help you avoid frozen or burst pipes and the headaches that come with them.

At Grasshopper Heating & Cooling, we want to help you keep your home safe from winter damage.

Insulate Your Pipes for Freeze Protection

One of the best ways to prevent frozen pipes is by adding insulation. When pipes are exposed to cold air, the water inside them can freeze and expand, increasing the risk of bursting. Insulating pipes in unheated areas, such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces, helps retain heat and prevent freezing.

Here are some effective insulation materials:

• Foam pipe wraps: These are easy to install and great for keeping pipes warm.
• Fiberglass insulation: This insulation works best for large pipes and extremely cold conditions.
• Heating tape: Convenient tape provides direct heat to pipes that are most at risk.

In addition to freeze protection, insulating your pipes improves energy efficiency by reducing heat loss.

Use Pipe Wraps To Prevent Freezing

Pipe wraps add an extra layer of insulation, helping to maintain warmth even in subzero conditions. They are especially useful for exposed pipes or those in unheated spaces.

Common types of pipe wraps include:

• Self-sealing foam wraps: They’re simple to apply and ideal for both indoor and outdoor pipes.
• Reflective insulation wraps: These wraps reflect heat back into the pipes.
• Rubber-based insulation: This insulation is flexible, moisture-resistant, and perfect for outdoor use.

Protect Outdoor Faucets From Freezing

Outdoor faucets are especially vulnerable to freezing since they are directly exposed to the elements. If water inside an outdoor faucet freezes, it can cause the connected pipe to burst.

To protect your outdoor faucets:

• Disconnect and drain garden hoses before winter.
• Install insulated faucet covers to shield them from the cold.
• Shut off the outdoor water supply and drain any remaining water.

Use Drip Prevention To Avoid Frozen Pipes

Letting your faucets drip slightly during freezing weather can keep your pipes from freezing. Moving water is less likely to freeze than stagnant water, reducing the risk of blockages and bursts.

Here’s how to use drip prevention effectively:

• Let faucets drip overnight when temperatures are at their lowest.
• Focus on pipes along exterior walls, as they are most vulnerable.
• Use both hot and cold water taps to keep the entire system moving.

Grasshopper Heating & Cooling Keeps Your Pipes Safe

Now that you know how to protect your pipes in freezing weather, you can take action to prevent damage before winter arrives. Insulation, pipe wraps, and drip prevention all play a key role in keeping your plumbing safe.

Grasshopper Heating & Cooling provides expert advice and solutions to protect your home’s plumbing throughout the winter. Our team specializes in heating, cooling, and home comfort services tailored to your needs.

If you need help protecting your pipes in freezing weather, call us at 518-545-3271. 

Garbage disposals might just be a modern marvel. The appliance eliminates slimy food remnants after you rinse your dishes and place them in the dishwasher. At some point, however, you may find yourself facing an unexpected mess in the cabinet beneath and suddenly asking, “Why is my garbage disposal leaking underneath?”

Read Grasshopper Heating & Cooling’s diagnostic guide on how to fix a leaking garbage disposal unit. It takes more than some plumber’s putty to plug that leak, so be sure to keep the team’s number on speed dial.

What Causes a Leaking Garbage Disposal?

A garbage disposal unit might leak because of the following circumstances:

• Regular use: Garbage disposal leaks happen more frequently as the disposal ages. In the worst-case scenario, you’ll replace that old disposal.
• Too much garbage: Rinsing too much or excessively large portions down the sink drain might clog and build water pressure. Eventually, the pipes will spring a leak.
• Inappropriate food waste going down the sink: Things like coffee grounds and apple cores wreak havoc on the disposal machinery. It’s best to avoid them.

Homeowners who aren’t sure how to safely navigate garbage disposal problems don’t have to worry. Plumbers like Grasshopper Heating & Cooling can check that the unit is connected properly to the kitchen sink drain and flush clogs to prevent garbage disposal leakage.

How to Find Leaks on Garbage Disposals

“Why is my garbage disposal leaking underneath?”

You can often pinpoint the problem area on a leaking garbage disposal unit if you run cold water from your sink into the sink drain. Open the cabinets and watch the water leaking from the exposed plumbing. Put a bucket beneath the sink to catch the running water.

Where does the leak come from? The average garbage disposal unit is cylindrical with a cone-like tapered top. It should be connected or adjacent to the sink plumbing. Identify whether the disposal leak drips from the top, side, or bottom of the appliance. Then, read below to learn how a trained plumber might fix a leaking garbage disposal unit.

Leaks at the Top Might Be the Sink Flange

The sink flange is the metal mounting ring that connects the sink with the disposal. Many homeowners find their flange to blame for the leak.

Check for loose metal connections and tighten or re-attach them to solve this problem. You might also discover cracks across the disposal casing, allowing water to seep through the structure.

Leaks on the Side Are Because of Loose Drain Lines

Typically, the garbage disposal drain pipe connects to the dishwasher drain pipe. That dishwasher hose connection empties food remnants into the garbage disposal drain. Then, the waste collection travels to the sewage system through a second drain pipe.

The existing drain line connecting the unit, dishwasher hose, and sewage drain has a metal clamp on each connection to secure the pipe materials. Is that clamp secure? Professionals will inspect these drain pipe lengths for holes or cracks that might cause a leak, too.

Leaks From the Bottom Are Because of Damaged Seals

If the garbage disposal is leaking from the bottom, it might be because one of the internal seals or the rubber gasket has loosened or broken. A broken seal allows water to escape from the bottom-most portion of the unit.

A plumber from the team at Grasshopper might replace that internal seal or fix it with some plumber’s putty. However, you’re usually better off having the whole disposal replaced.

Why Is My Garbage Disposal Leaking Underneath? Other Reasons for a Failing or Leaky Garbage Disposal

Leaks aren’t the only issues that arise in garbage disposals. For instance, the mounting assembly can slowly loosen, masking a garbage disposal leak and other problems. The reset button may also get stuck, cutting power to the garbage disposal.

In any situation that involves power, like a reset button or breaker box, it’s best to leave repairs to the professionals. Otherwise, you could risk electrical shock and other injuries. For safety reasons, get a skilled plumber like Grasshopper Heating & Cooling to repair things and help you prevent future leaks.

Call Grasshopper Heating & Cooling to Fix It!

“Why is my garbage disposal leaking underneath?” Why not contact Grasshopper Heating & Cooling for answers and relax knowing you have all the professional disposal unit service you need? We can replace parts, put in your new garbage disposal installation, or issue garbage disposal repairs to ensure it can run efficiently.

Whether you need professional help with a garbage disposal flange, unresponsive reset switch, or clogged drain lines, call 518-545-3271 to schedule your plumbing service with us!

You run your garbage disposal after rinsing the dishes to pulverize any food waste left in the drain. But the garbage disposal stopped working, much to your dismay. “Why did my garbage disposal stop running?” you mutter, wondering where you left your allen wrench and needle nose pliers.

Read Grasshopper Heating & Cooling’s brief garbage disposal guide below to quickly troubleshoot the problem. Our plumbing experts know what makes this appliance fail and shared their knowledge.

How You Can Tell You Have a Broken Garbage Disposal

Press the reset button when the garbage disposal stops working. This might help reboot it without a big fuss. Otherwise, look out for the following additional symptoms:

• The garbage disposal smokes.
• You hear a humming noise.
• The sink water is draining slowly.
• You can see leakage coming from the drain line.

These issues typically indicate something amiss deep within the system. But what do they mean, and how do they contribute to the garbage disposal not working?

Clogged Garbage Disposal Drain Trap

The problem might originate from the depths of the drain trap. The sink’s drain piping probably has excessive food waste trapped inside if the garbage disposal is not working. You need to unclog the sink drain pipe with a cup plunger to loosen and free the debris.

Otherwise, the issue might be deeper inside the drain system where the discharge drain line expels waste substances. The discharge tube or discharge pipe collects food debris from the disposal trap.

You might have small blockages in the discharge line or sink’s plumbing system with boiling water, baking soda, and white vinegar. But you should avoid pouring chemical drain cleaners down the sink since they can corrode plumbing materials.

Power Supply Problems

Electrical issues are sometimes responsible for a broken-down garbage disposal. Some examples include:

• A tripped circuit breaker: Power surges following an outage can trigger the circuit breaker in charge of your garbage disposal. Check the breaker box for flipped switches and restore power to them.
• Loose connections: Burnt wires or an unplugged power cord keep electricity from flowing the device. Securely plug the cord back in or request help from a plumber to tackle wire damage.
• Flipped reset button: The reset switch acts like an internal breaker. If the reset button flips in the wrong direction, it cuts electrical power.
• Malfunctioning disposal switch plate: You likely have a switch installed on a wall that lets you turn the disposal on without opening the sink cupboard. Sometimes that switch doesn’t work correctly and keeps power from flowing to the appliance.

Jammed Flywheel

“Why did my garbage disposal stop running?” You wonder, scratching your head as the garbage disposal hums without pulverizing food. The garbage disposal is not working because the flywheel might be stuck in one position. Tiny particles, like coffee grounds, can become wedged in flywheel.

One small, precarious piece of food can keep the unit from doing its job. You can try to free the foreign objects by inserting a wooden spoon into the drain. Tap the spoon on the blades to encourage the item to loosen. Tongs might work for larger substances.

Motor Issues

A motor frying, overheating, or dying might be to blame if your garbage disposal stopped working. Motors fail for numerous reasons, including:

• Age
• Improper use
• Fibrous food scraps tangled in the mechanism
• Grease weighing the motor down

These issues almost always require a skilled plumber’s keen eye.

Preventing Garbage Disposal Problems

What can you do to protect your garbage disposal and prolong its lifespan? Our team has a few recommendations based on our experiences in fixing these convenient appliances:

1. Use a drain strainer. Drain strainers are metal covers that fit over the drain opening. You can lower the cover onto the opening before rinsing plates and cookware to capture large food particles.
2. Rinsing the lower grinding chamber with cold water. Let cold tap water flow through the drain system after every disposal use. This leaves a clean pathway for your next operation.
3. Grind more modest amounts of food. Never grind more than one cup of food at a time. Doing so could overheat the system.
4. Dispose of destructive substances in other ways. Things like egg shells, rice, oil, and celery can destroy a garbage disposal faster than anything else. Read through a list of things to throw away versus grind up with the disposal unit.

Grasshopper Heating & Cooling Fixes Out-of-Order Garbage Disposals

“Why did my garbage disposal stop running?”

Grasshopper Heating & Cooling can figure it out. We can also install a new garbage disposal unit if your old one burns out. Call 518-545-3271 for service from NATE-certified plumbers.

Your kitchen’s garbage disposal can collect many bad smells given the amount of food scraps and liquid that pass through it. If you want to keep it smelling fresh, you might be wondering, “What is the best deodorizer for garbage disposal smells?”

Grasshopper Heating & Cooling shares some ways you can clean your garbage disposal and eliminate foul odors. Discover simple methods to get rid of any nasty garbage disposal stench and keep your home smelling clean.

Prevent Smells in the First Place

Why does your garbage disposal stink? You might not think about the food waste you’re sending down the sink but try to be mindful of items that end up in the disposal. As the scraps build up inside, they can form harsh odors that waft throughout the kitchen.

You can use various natural remedies to eliminate smells but the best course of action is to prevent them in the first place. Avoid putting the following items into garbage disposals to keep them from smelling:

• Grease: Pouring grease down the drain not only makes increases the risk of the garbage disposal clogging but also allows different substances to stick. You’ll not only have to deal with a clogged drain but also harsh odors.
• Runny foods: You’ll have to clean your system thoroughly when runny foods like eggs or honey get stuck inside the disposal.
• Small food particles: You might not think that ground coffee beans or other small items would cause a smell, but they contribute to clogs and require a good clean.

Try Baking Soda and Vinegar

What is the best deodorizer for garbage disposals? Experts swear by the proven home remedy of mixing baking soda with white vinegar. All you have to do is pour about a half a cup of baking soda into the kitchen sink drain followed by a half a cup of vinegar.

These basic pantry ingredients form a chemical reaction that will fizz inside your garbage disposal and eliminate existing scraps or particles. Wait a few minutes and then flush out the smell and remaining fizz with hot water.

Utilize Ice With Salt and Vinegar

Cleaning your garbage disposal and getting rid of unwanted odor is as simple as grabbing some ice cubes, rock salt, and vinegar. These household staples are ideal for cleaning debris inside the walls of the disposal so your kitchen doesn’t stink. They combine to scrub any kitchen waste while a hot water rinse completes the process and leaves you with a fresh-smelling sink.

Follow these steps for effective at-home garbage disposal cleaning:

• Place two ice cubes into the drain.
• Put either three tablespoons of rock salt or a cup of vinegar into the garbage disposal.
• Turn on the system and let it operate for a minute.
• Turn off the disposal and then rinse it with warm water.

Manually Scrub the Garbage Disposal

When you run water from your kitchen faucet and can’t escape the smell coming from your garbage disposal, it’s a telltale sign that it’s due for cleaning. But what is the best deodorizer for a garbage disposal? You don’t have to look further than items already inside your kitchen.

Run cold water into the disposal and then start cleaning it with dish soap and a bottle brush. Manual cleaning allows you to get rid of stubborn food particles and the odor that they emit.

Use Deodorizing Citrus Fruits

While ice, baking soda, and rock salt can effectively clean a garbage disposal, many homeowners prefer to use citrus fruits like:

• Lemons
• Oranges
• Limes
• Grapefruit

The acidity of these fruits is powerful enough to cut through lingering bacteria and best of all, you’ll enjoy a wonderful, fresh citrus smell after cleaning. Cut up some of the produce, including the peel, and stick slices of fruit into your garbage disposal. Let the system run for a few seconds as you let some cold water run.

If you don’t have any fruit on hand, you can pour some mouthwash into the disposal and let it run to safely get rid of waste and build-up. Mouthwash is also powerful enough to eliminate bacteria without damaging the equipment.

Enhance Your Kitchen Plumbing With Grasshopper Heating & Cooling

After reading this guide, you no longer have to wonder, “What is the best deodorizer for a garbage disposal?” Everything from baking soda and vinegar to citrus fruits can help freshen up your kitchen sink and keep your garbage disposal clean. For help repairing or installing this vital plumbing fixture, reach out to Grasshopper Heating & Cooling at (518) 545-3271.