Waste disposal is a convenient kitchen tool. Until I stop working. A disturbed, humming or completely quiet unit can disrupt everyday life and lead to plumbing issues if left unaddressed. This Redfin article explains why it’s most common that your garbage disposal is not working, how to troubleshoot it, and when you call a pro, whether you’re in a Chicago, Illinois or a Phoenix, Arizona home.
1. Check the power supply
Sometimes the solution is as easy as recovering power.
Start with the Reset button: This red or black button at the bottom of the unit resets the disposal. If it pops out, press it again. Look under the sink: make sure the unit is connected. It may be loose. Test Outlet: Connect another appliance to see if the outlet is working. If not, try resetting the circuit breaker.
Pros for checking power
Always start with a reset
“If the garbage disposal suddenly stops, check the reset button on the bottom. You often travel while jaming,” says Flow City Plumbing. “Always remove the unit before inspecting and avoid strict chemical vacuums. We recommend flashing it monthly with baking soda and vinegar to keep the odor away. Strange noise and persistent leaks usually mean that it’s time for a replacement.”
Check the plug and the wall switch
“Non-labor disposal may require a quick reset,” says Sargents Maytag. “Make sure you’re plugging in, press the reset button and inspect the jam using a flashlight and tools. Don’t turn it on yet. Wall switches and wiring can be a problem.”
Don’t ignore electrical overloads
“A sudden shutdown is often due to electrical overload, and the reset button can resolve it quickly,” explains A. Fagundes’ plumbing and heating. “Don’t forget to cut down on electricity first. For permanent performance, avoid textile waste and clean up the waste by mixing ice cubes and citrus peels each month. These small steps can prevent expensive issues.”
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2. Listen to humming and silence
The sound of your garbage disposal will provide clues.
Humming Noise: This usually means that waste is gaining power, but the blade can be hampered by things like silverware or fibrous food. Running the unit in this state can cause the motor to burn out, so it will shut down immediately and move to clear jams. No noise at all: the unit may not receive any power at all. Make sure it’s firmly plugged in, press the red reset button at the bottom of the unit and check with the switch that tripped the circuit breaker. If it still doesn’t respond, there may be a problem with the wall switch or internal wiring.
3. Clear jam safely
Use the right tools instead.
Turn off the power: Before doing anything, unplug the unit or turn off the circuit breaker. Use an Allen wrench: insert it into the hex hole under the unit and manually turn it freely into the impeller. Try tongs and pliers. Use a long tool instead of your hands to remove any visible blockages.
Pro tips for fixing jammed waste disposal
Avoid jams with safe practice
“One of the most common reasons why trash disposal fails is jam or overload,” says Alliance appliance repairs. “If the unit stops working, press the reset button first, but always turn off the power before checking for blockage. You can place the fibrous food in the drain and flush everything down by running cold water.
Inspect debris and do not treat your disposal like a trash can
“We’ll start by figuring out whether the disposal is stuck or if the power is lost,” explains Bill Helmken Prunving. “If it’s clogged, turn off the power and inspect the inside for debris. Then rotate the blade with the appropriate tool and don’t handle disposal like a trash can.
Try a hex wrench to release the jam
“If you have a trash disposal clog, try using the included hex wrench to release it from the bottom,” advises Sam’s appliance repair. “Always make sure the unit is turned off before it reaches the inside. If you continue to trip or crush, it may require a replacement. For maintenance, rinse with cold water, peel and clean the lemon and allow it to deodorize.”
4. Inspect clogs and buildup
If the unit is not running but does not drain, the clogging can lead to deep drains.
Use a plunger: A sink plunger (not a toilet type) helps to push food particles when the blockage is beyond disposal. Be sure to cover other drains (for double sinks) to increase suction power. Clean the trap: Place the bucket under the P-Trap (the curved pipe under the sink) and carefully remove it to rinse trapped food or sludge. This is the common place where clogs form. Avoid chemical cleaners: Strict drain cleaners can damage internal components of waste. Instead, pour in a mixture of baking soda and vinegar, let it burn for a few minutes and rinse it off with hot water.
5. Know what you can’t put in the waste disposal
Prevention is important. Avoid these common blockages:
Grease and Oil: It solidifies with pipes and causes accumulation. Fiber vegetables: Celery, corn shells, artichoke leaves can wrap around the blade. Coffee Ground: They can coagulate together and clog the drains. Eggshells: The membrane layer can get caught up in waste, causing jam. Starchy Food: Pasta, rice and bread expand with water, creating a mess of glue.
6. Call a professional if necessary
If you’re trying everything and it’s not working yet, or you haven’t done any repairs, it’s wise to call a licensed plumber or electrician.
Identify the problem before asking for help
“Many disposal issues can be simple, like stuck objects and rust buildup,” says LocalPro appliance repairs. “Always turn off the power before troubleshooting and use tongs instead of your hands. If the unit is not humming or reset, try using the hex key down. In the case of leaks or aging disposal, replacing it is easier than repair.”
7. Replace the unit
If the disposal is still not responding or you need to reset frequently, it may be time for a replacement.
Check for leaks: Water around the base may indicate a cracked unit or a bad seal. Both often require the unit to be replaced. Over 10 years old? Most disposals last 8-15 years. If you are aging and behaviour, consider replacing it with a newer, more efficient model.
Plumber-approved tips to know when to repair or replace
Understand the complete life cycle of disposal
“Dead waste may have an overheated, clogged or burnt-out motor,” says Cocoon Home Services. “Let it cool for 15 minutes and then press reset. If it’s not working yet, it could be time for a new unit. Especially if it leaks or corrodes, run cold water during use, avoid overloading, and always break large scraps.”
Know when to repair or replace
“Most disposal issues are due to jam and power failures,” says Plumbers Elite. “Use hex keys to reset the unit, check the breaker, and release the blades if necessary. If it’s leaking or smoking, or if it’s over 10 years old, a replacement is usually the best option.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Garbage Repair
1. Is it safe to fix the disposal of garbage yourself?
Yes, if the problem is minor, like reset or jam, the tool can safely clear it. Always unplug the plug first.
2. Why am I humming my garbage disposal, but not spinning?
This usually means it’s stuck. Try using the Allen wrench at the bottom of the unit to release the blade.
3. Should we never quell waste disposal?
Avoid starchy foods such as grease, coffee grounds, fibrous vegetables, and pasta and rice.
4. When should I call an expert?
If the disposal has leaked, has not responded, or is more than 10 years old, it is best to call an authorized plumber.
5. Can I use a drain cleaner for garbage disposal?
No – Chemical cleaners can damage the unit. Use a vinegar and baking soda mix instead.
