How to Fix a Garbage Disposal

To fix a garbage disposal, first cut the power, press the reset button, and if that doesn’t work, clear any jams with an Allen wrench or unclog the drainpipe. Most issues like humming motors, clogged sinks, or leaks can be solved with simple steps you can do at home without needing a plumber.

Garbage disposals are one of the most useful kitchen tools, but when they stop working, it can leave you with a sink full of dirty water or a foul odor. The good news is that most problems, whether your disposal is not working at all, humming but not grinding, clogged, or leaking, can be fixed quickly with the right approach. This guide explains every solution step by step, shows you how to safely troubleshoot, and gives you tips to prevent future problems so your disposal lasts for years.

Why Your Garbage Disposal Is Not Working

If your garbage disposal is not working, the issue usually comes from one of five common problems. A power failure is the simplest, often caused by a tripped breaker, unplugged cord, or the garbage disposal reset button popping out. A jammed impeller is another, which makes the unit hum but not grind because something like bones or utensils is stuck inside. A clogged sink drain can stop water from flowing, usually from grease or fibrous foods in the pipes. An overheating motor may shut down automatically after overuse but can often be fixed by cooling and resetting. Finally, leaks may appear from the top, side, or bottom, signaling anything from loose connections to worn-out seals.

Safety First Before Fixing a Disposal

Before learning how to fix a garbage disposal, safety should always come first. These units combine sharp impellers with electricity, which makes careful preparation essential. Always turn off the power by unplugging the disposal or shutting off the breaker before you start. Never place your hand directly inside the disposal, even if it’s off—use pliers or tongs to remove any stuck objects. For added protection, wear gloves and safety glasses while working under the sink. It also helps to gather simple tools ahead of time, such as a flashlight, Allen wrench, pliers, and a bucket for water cleanup. Following these safety steps will protect you from injury and make every repair safer and easier.

Fix 1: Garbage Disposal Won’t Turn On

If your disposal shows no signs of life, here’s what to do:

1. Check the power cord – Make sure it’s plugged in.
2. Press the garbage disposal reset button – Usually located on the bottom. If it has popped out, press it back in firmly.
3. Check the circuit breaker – A tripped breaker can cut power. Flip it back on if needed.
4. Test the wall switch – Faulty wiring or a bad switch can also prevent operation.

Often, pressing the reset button is all it takes to fix a disposal that won’t start.

Fix 2: Garbage Disposal Humming but Not Working

If you flip the switch and hear a humming noise, that means the motor has power but the blades are stuck. Here’s how to free a garbage disposal that is stuck:

1. Turn off power completely.
2. Shine a flashlight inside the unit to look for objects.
3. Use tongs or pliers to remove anything visible.
4. If nothing is visible, insert an Allen wrench into the hex hole on the bottom of the disposal and twist back and forth to manually free the blades.
5. Press the reset button and turn the unit back on.

This fix works for situations like stuck potato peels, bones, or utensils jamming the impellers.

Fix 3: Garbage Disposal Clogged Sink

When the disposal runs but water doesn’t drain, the issue is usually a clogged sink or drainpipe. To clear it:

1. Place a bucket under the P-trap (U-shaped pipe under the sink).
2. Loosen the nuts and remove the trap.
3. Empty out food debris or grease.
4. Use a plumber’s snake or straightened wire hanger to push out clogs.
5. Reattach the trap and test with running water.

Avoid pouring chemical drain cleaners into a garbage disposal, as they can damage both the disposal and pipes.

Fix 4: Garbage Disposal Leaking From Bottom or Top

Leaks are another frequent complaint. Identifying where it leaks determines the fix:

• Top leak – Caused by a loose mounting ring or bad plumber’s putty. Re-seal or tighten.
• Side leak – From the dishwasher hose connection. Tighten the clamp or replace the hose.
• Garbage disposal leaking from bottom – This usually means the internal seals are worn out. Unfortunately, the only solution is replacing the unit.

Fix 5: Garbage Disposal Smells Bad

A smelly garbage disposal is usually due to food buildup. Here’s how to clean it safely:

• Ice and rock salt – Run a handful through the disposal to scrub the blades.
• Baking soda and vinegar – Pour in half a cup of baking soda followed by a cup of vinegar. Rinse with hot water after it fizzes.
• Citrus peels – Grind lemon or orange peels for a fresh scent.

These natural methods remove odors without harming your pipes.

Fix 6: Garbage Disposal Motor Problems

If your disposal keeps shutting off or trips the breaker repeatedly, the motor could be overheating or burned out. Signs you may need a garbage disposal motor replacement include:

• Loud grinding or buzzing sounds.
• Frequent resets without improvement.
• Disposal is more than 10 years old.

In this case, replacing the disposal is more cost-effective than repairing.

How to Maintain a Garbage Disposal

Maintaining a garbage disposal means using it properly, cleaning it regularly, and avoiding items that cause clogs or damage. The goal is to prevent problems before they happen, which saves time and keeps your kitchen sink running smoothly. Always run cold water while the disposal is in use to help solidify food waste and protect the blades. Avoid putting fibrous foods like celery or corn husks, along with grease, bones, or coffee grounds, since these are common causes of jams. Cut larger scraps into smaller pieces before feeding them in so the motor doesn’t strain. Give the disposal a monthly cleaning with baking soda, vinegar, and ice cubes to remove odors and buildup. Even if you don’t use it often, running the disposal regularly keeps the blades sharp, prevents rust, and extends the unit’s lifespan.

When to Call a Plumber

Call a plumber if your garbage disposal has problems that simple fixes can’t solve. Leaks from the bottom usually mean worn seals, while a unit that only hums may have a failed motor. Burning smells, smoke, or ongoing electrical issues after resetting are also signs it’s time for professional help.

Final Thoughts

Most of the time, when your garbage disposal is not working, the fix is simple: reset it, clear a jam, or unclog the drain. Knowing how to handle common problems like a garbage disposal humming but not working, a clogged sink, or bad odors can save you money and prevent unnecessary stress.

By following the steps in this guide, you can keep your disposal running smoothly, extend its lifespan, and avoid expensive replacements. When in doubt, though, don’t hesitate to call a professional for safety and peace of mind.