Garbage disposals are a terrific way to minimize cleanup after meals and family get-togethers, reduce waste, and maintain a clean kitchen. Even though they are fantastic, they aren’t indestructible, and occasionally they may need expert maintenance. If your disposal isn’t working properly, there may be a few common issues as to why.
Garbage Disposal Humming but Not Working
You’re accustomed to some noise coming from your garbage disposal when it’s running, especially if it’s an older model. But if the device isn’t making noise together with the blades whirling, then there’s a problem. Here are three of the most common problems and what you can do to correct them if you’re wondering, “Why is my garbage disposal not working?”
Clogged Motor
If your garbage disposal isn’t working, it’s likely due to a clog or motor jam. To fix this, disconnect the device, cut the power at the breaker, and release the flywheel using a hex Allen wrench. If you don’t have an Allen wrench, manually rotate the impeller blade using a broom. After releasing the foreign item, switch the disposal back on and check if it’s functioning properly. If these solutions don’t work, consult professionals like those at Scott Hale.
Tripped Disposer
A tripped GFCI outlet or a tripped unit disposer might also be the cause of a trash disposal that is humming but not turning. When this happens, the motor is not receiving any power, which may result in a buzzing sound. Press the reset button on your GFCI switch and/or garbage disposal device, then check to see if the problem persists. The reset button for the garbage disposal is on the underside of the device. There won’t be any sound if there is no electricity.
Faulty Motor
A humming sound with no rotating garbage disposal may be due to a malfunctioning motor. We can repair it when possible, but upgrading to a new model is recommended if the disposal is nearing the end of its lifespan. Modern garbage disposals are quiet and have superior grinding power, keeping drains cleaner and saving on drain cleaning services. Maintaining the disposal daily with water and being aware of what is being thrown in can prevent backups or clogs. Choosing a new model if the current one has died can save money on drain cleaning services.
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How to Troubleshoot a Garbage Disposal
Check the Power Supply
The first thing to do when an appliance, such as a garbage disposal, stops operating is to make sure it is still connected to the power supply. Even though this step could seem really straightforward, consider the space beneath your sink in your house for a moment. The trash disposal plug can easily be pulled out of the outlet or knocked loose, especially if you put cleaning products or a wastebasket underneath your sink.
Inspect the Electrical Circuit
An electrician is typically required to run a single circuit for the dishwasher and the garbage disposal in newer homes. However, running the disposal when another appliance is on can trip the breaker. To check the power, plug a bulb into each socket before resetting the main electrical system. Overloading the same circuit may cause a disposal malfunction. Hiring an electrician is a permanent solution.
Reset Your Garbage Disposal
To reset a trash disposal, make sure the power is on and the device is plugged into the power supply. Overloading food can trigger the reset button, which can be found on the side or bottom of the under-sink section of the appliance. Feel around the back of the device to locate the button. Push the button once, then let it go.
Rotate the Impellers and Flywheel
Impeller arms are connected to a flywheel encircled by a shredder ring, and this is what powers a garbage disposal. The ring and impellers combine to rip through anything in their path while the flywheel rotates.
The impeller, or the space between the flywheel and the shredder ring, can occasionally become jammed by small metal fragments or other materials that are too tough for the impeller arms to break down. You will have to take these items out of the garbage disposal if this happens.
How to Fix a Garbage Disposal Jam
- Unplug the garbage disposal or flip the power breaker if hardwired.
- Use a ¼-inch hex-head wrench to loosen the stuck item in the disposal.
- Use a broom handle to dislodge the stuck object in the impeller blades.
- Use needle-nose pliers to remove the foreign object.
- Never put your hands inside the disposal, as it can cut your hand.
- Reconnect the power, turn on the faucet, and test the disposal.
- Reset the switch if necessary before the disposal returns to working.
Check for Any Leaks
To fix a leak in a garbage disposal, move everything out of the under-sink area, unplug it to avoid electric shock, and examine the plumbing around the disposal. Check for leaks in the lines running to and from the disposal, the discharge tube connecting to the sink drain line, and the dishwasher drain line. If the leak is from one of the lines, tighten the connections. If the leak is from the dishwasher drain line, replace the lines. If the leak is not fixed, it may be necessary to replace the lines.
Foods That Can Damage Your Garbage Disposal
- Eggshells: Eggshells can damage garbage disposal blades and cause the blade to break.
- Coffee Grounds: Coffee grounds can build up over time and cause the sediment to compact in pipes. Save them for plants and compost them instead.
- Rice, Pasta, & Other Expanding Materials: Excess pieces from these materials can damage the drain. Dispose of these excess materials in the trash bin.
- Stringy Vegetables: Celery, corn husks, and lettuce can wrap around garbage disposal blades and damage the blade. Dispose of these vegetables in the trash or compost.
- Cooking Grease & Oil: Hardened cooking oils can cause major clogs. We recommend disposing of them in a sealable bag or container.
Garbage Disposal Repair
Our team at Scott Hale has been providing top-notch plumbing services, including garbage disposal repair, to Salt Lake City area homeowners and business owners for more than thirty years. Please give us a call at 801-406-6797 to book an appointment if you experience any issues with your disposal, and we will take care of things promptly!
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