Common Garbage Disposal Problems and How We Solve Them
- Garbage Disposal Won’t Turn On
Causes: A tripped circuit breaker, a faulty reset button, or a burned-out motor.
Solutions:
• Reset the disposal using the reset button.
• Check the circuit breaker and wiring for electrical issues.
• Replace the motor if it has burned out.
- Clogs or Slow Drainage
Causes: Food particles, grease, or non-disposable items blocking the blades or drain pipe.
Solutions:
• Remove clogs using specialized tools.
• Clean and inspect the drain line for blockages.
• Educate on proper disposal practices to avoid future clogs.
- Unusual Noises During Operation
Causes: Foreign objects stuck in the blades or worn-out components.
Solutions:
• Remove any non-food objects safely.
• Replace damaged blades or worn-out parts.
• Tighten loose mounting hardware.
- Leaking Garbage Disposal
Causes: Worn seals, loose connections, or cracks in the disposal unit.
Solutions:
• Inspect and replace worn seals or gaskets.
• Tighten all connections to eliminate leaks.
• Replace the unit if the housing is cracked.
- Garbage Disposal Smells Bad
Causes: Food debris stuck in the blades or pipes.
Solutions:
• Clean the disposal using a safe cleaning solution or natural cleaners like baking soda and vinegar.
• Flush the system thoroughly to remove trapped debris.
• Perform regular maintenance to keep odors at bay.
- Garbage Disposal Hums but Doesn’t Work
Causes: Jammed blades or a defective motor.
Solutions:
• Use an Allen wrench to manually unjam the blades.
• Check and replace the motor if necessary.
Prevent Clogs: Protect Your Sink and Dishwasher from Drain Blockages
If a garbage disposal gets clogged, it can cause water and food waste to back up into your sink, leading to unpleasant odors and potential damage to the disposal itself. For dishwashers connected to the same drain, a clogged disposal can block water from draining properly, causing dirty water to pool inside the dishwasher and reducing its cleaning efficiency. Regular maintenance of your disposal helps prevent these issues.