Why Is My Garbage Disposal Not Working

By |Published On: January 14th, 2023|Categories: Kitchen Plumbing|

If you’ve ever had to clean up after dinner, you know how useful garbage disposal is—and how annoying it is when it breaks down. Though a broken garbage disposal may indicate that it needs to be replaced, it could simply be a simple problem with an easy cure. Some of the most common garbage disposal challenges are as follows.

It Will Not Turn On

If your garbage disposal would not turn on, one of the following possibilities exists:

  • Electrical problems
  • Clogged
  • Broken motor

Begin by plugging in the disposal’s power wire and checking the breaker for blown fuses. Next, inspect the disposal for obstructions and remove any clogged items. If your disposal does not work after following these measures, it is time to replace it.

Water Leaking

A water leak might cause your garbage disposal to cease working and can come from one of the following sources:

  • Gaskets.
  • Drainage systems.
  • Crack(s).
  • The Reset button.

Begin by determining the source of the leak and patching any tiny fractures with epoxy. Check that the dishwasher’s pipe to the drain pipe is properly sealed. If you discover severe cracks or broken pipes, you must replace them.

Humming Sound

Is your garbage disposal making a humming sound when it’s turned on? If you hear a buzzing sound and your garbage disposal isn’t working properly, it’s a symptom of faulty blades. Even though the garbage disposal receives power, a problem may be preventing the blades from turning. 

Turn off and cool the system if it’s overheated. Pressing the reset button will restart your disposal if one of the above causes it to hum. If the reset button fails, replace the disposal.

Inefficient Draining

Large obstructions in your drain could cause your garbage disposal not to work. Food waste can block your disposal, causing the blades to stop operating and the water in the sink to boil. These blockages are most commonly found in an S or P-shaped pipe drain trap.

To resolve this issue, disconnect the drain trap from the disposal unit. Fill a small bucket with any excess water. To remove food waste, use a cable or a drill to clean the drain trap. You should also sharpen the grinder blades to ensure they slice food more effectively and prevent future jams.

Strange Odors

Food trash that sits in your garbage disposal for an extended period quickly begins to smell terrible. Repair the problem as soon as possible before the odor intensifies. To get rid of the odor and clean the food waste, use one of these home remedies:

  • Toss a few orange peels down the garbage disposal.
  • Flush the drain with bleach or vinegar.
  • Use ice cubes to sharpen the blades.

Need Repair Service for Garbage Disposal?

If your garbage disposal has stopped operating and you have been unable to resolve the problem, it is time for professional plumbing repair. New Flow Plumbing will inspect your equipment to establish the exact cause of your trash disposal’s failure and make the required repairs to get it back up and running or install a new unit if you prefer.

About the Author: Gary Gill

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