Common Issues & Repairs for Garbage Disposals
Garbage disposals are essential in restaurants and homes for grinding food waste, but they can experience clogs, jams, leaks, and motor failures over time. Below are common issues, their causes, and recommended repairs.
Garbage Disposal Won't Turn On
Causes:
- Power issue (tripped breaker, unplugged unit)
- Overloaded disposal triggering a reset
- Faulty switch or motor failure
Repairs:
✔ Check power source, reset button (red button at the bottom)
✔ Reset circuit breaker if tripped
✔ Inspect and replace a faulty wall switch or motor if needed
Disposal is Jammed (Humming Sound but Not Grinding)
Causes:
- Foreign objects (utensils, bones, fibrous foods)
- Overloading of food waste
- Jammed impeller blades
Repairs:
✔ Turn off power and use an Allen wrench in the bottom hex socket to manually turn the blades
✔ Use tongs or pliers to remove stuck debris (NEVER use hands)
✔ Avoid hard-to-grind foods (bones, fruit pits, coffee grounds, grease)
Slow Draining or Clogged Disposal
Causes:
- Accumulated food debris, grease, or fibrous material
- Clogged drainpipe or P-trap
Repairs:
✔ Flush with cold water while running the disposal
✔ Use a plunger or plumber’s snake if clogged beyond the disposal
✔ Clean the P-trap under the sink if needed
Leaking Garbage Disposal
Causes:
- Loose mounting ring or sink flange
- Cracked unit or worn-out seals
- Loose drain connections
Repairs:
✔ Tighten the mounting ring and check for worn seals
✔ Apply plumber’s putty around the sink flange if leaking at the top
✔ Replace cracked disposal if the unit itself is damaged
Foul Odors from Garbage Disposal
Causes:
- Trapped food particles or grease buildup
- Mold and bacteria growth
Repairs:
✔ Clean with baking soda and vinegar, then rinse with hot water
✔ Grind ice cubes and citrus peels for deodorizing
✔ Use a disposal brush to clean inside the unit
Loud or Unusual Noises
Causes:
- Foreign objects stuck inside
- Loose or worn-out internal components
Repairs:
✔ Turn off power and remove obstructions
✔ If the grinding plate or motor is damaged, a replacement may be needed
When to Replace a Garbage Disposal
🔧 If repairs are frequent or the motor is failing, replacing the unit is more cost-effective. Most disposals last 8-15 years with proper maintenance.
