Does a home warranty cover garbage disposals?
Check garbage disposal coverage to avoid costly surprises later
A garbage disposal can be a handy appliance that saves you time and helps you get rid of waste. However, if your garbage disposal is jamming, leaking, making a strange noise or over 10 years old, it might be time for repairs or a replacement.
Unexpected breakdowns can be a hassle and leave you with costly expenses. On average, repairing a garbage disposal can cost anywhere from $250 to $625, and replacing one can cost anywhere from $90 to $1,000, depending on the unit. But a home warranty may be able to help. Here’s how to get the best coverage for your unit.
Garbage disposal repairs can cost between $250 to $625.
Jump to insightHome warranties cover all the main components of garbage disposals.
Jump to insightMany home warranty plans have exclusions and coverage caps.
Jump to insightWhat garbage disposal services does a home warranty cover?
Many home warranty companies offer coverage for garbage disposals in their appliance plans. These plans typically cover breakdowns due to jams and normal wear and tear and cover all parts and repairs for the garbage disposal's electrical and mechanical components. However, if your unit can’t be repaired, the company will usually replace it.
Here are some items that are commonly covered by home warranties:
- Inlets for dishwashers
- Motors
- Stoppers
- Wiring
- Shredder rings
- Switches
- Drain
Potential exclusions to garbage disposal home warranty coverage
Even if your home warranty plan covers garbage disposals, your claim may still be denied. Home warranties typically have limitations and exclusions in their contracts, meaning there are some things the company won’t cover.
For example, plans usually only cover damage to normal wear and tear and exclude things such as jams caused by foreign objects. Here are some other things that might lead to claim denial:
- Acts of god
- Misuse or abuse
- Weather damage
- Mold or mildew
- Damaged runner guards
- Jams caused by foreign objects or bones
- Damaged interior lining
- Missing parts
- Preexisting conditions
Coverage caps
It’s important to remember that many home warranty plans have coverage caps in their contracts. Coverage caps limit the amount the company will pay for repairs and replacements. If the costs of repairs exceed the limit, you are liable for the remaining fees.
Additionally, garbage disposals typically have a combined limit with the other kitchen appliances in your home warranty plan. For example, if it costs $800 to replace your garbage disposal and your limit is $3,000 per coverage term, then you would still have $2,200 to use on other kitchen appliance claims. If repairs or replacements exceed $3,000, you will be responsible for the remaining costs.
What to do if your home warranty doesn’t cover garbage disposals
If your home warranty plan doesn’t cover garbage disposals, there are some things you can do. Double-check whether they are included in a higher plan or as an add-on. This will add to your home warranty cost but may be worth the coverage for parts, repairs, replacements and labor.
You can also try replacing it yourself if you are looking for a cheaper alternative. On average, garbage disposals cost between $90 and $1,000, depending on the type of unit, material and motor strength. Typical garbage disposal replacements usually take an hour or two, and you'll only need a few tools, including plumber’s putty, a pipe wrench, a wrench, a hammer, a flathead and a Phillips screwdriver.
However, if you are considering installing a new unit but haven’t previously had one, it might be worth calling a contractor for the plumbing, electrical and GFCI outlet. Most replacements cost around $400 to $600, including parts and labor, if you decide to call a professional.
Additionally, most garbage disposals come with a one to five-year manufacturer warranty. So, if your unit is newer, the manufacturer may cover some repairs and replacements.
FAQ
What does a home warranty typically cover?
Home warranties usually cover large appliances, built-in microwaves, water heaters and systems like HVACs, plumbing, ductwork, pool heaters and well pumps. Some plans also cover additional items like pest control, septic systems, central vacuums, sump pumps and more.
How long do garbage disposals last?
On average, garbage disposals last five to 10 years, but higher-quality units can last up to 15.
Do garbage disposals need regular maintenance?
Garbage disposals need regular maintenance, such as descaling and blade sharpening every few months, to ensure they are running smoothly. Don’t worry, though. All you need to do is grind a few ice cubes to sharpen the blades and let a cup of vinegar sit in your unit to descale it.
Bottom line
Garbage disposals can be handy appliances that save you time and help you get rid of last night's dinner scraps. They typically last 5 to 10 years, costing around $250 to $625 to repair and $90 to $1,000 to replace. Double-check your home warranty policy to see if it covers repairs and replacements to keep your garbage disposal running smoothly for years to come.
Article sources
- Angi, “How Much Does Garbage Disposal Replacement Cost?” Accessed May 2, 2024.
- Home Warranty of America, “Garbage Disposal Maintenance Tips.” Accessed May 2, 2024.
