How to Fix a Garbage Disposal That's Not Working

If you are wondering how to fix a garbage disposal that makes an odd hum, leaks, backs up, drains slowly, or does nothing when you flip the switch, try the reset button on the bottom of the disposal. If the reset button doesn’t work, it can be an electrical system issue, disposal jam, drain pipe clog, or a faulty seal in the mounting, hoses, or pipe connections.

You can easily diagnose and fix most garbage disposal problems at home. Read on to learn how to get your garbage disposal working again.

How to Troubleshoot a Garbage Disposal

Here are a few common issues with the garbage disposal that you could experience, plus some potential fixes.

• Check the power plug: If the disposal does nothing when you flip the switch, it could be an electrical problem. Check the power outlet and power cord, unplug the cord, and re-plug it into the outlet. Flip the switch to turn on the garbage disposal.
• Push the reset button. If the home's circuit breaker trips, reset the internal circuit breaker and push the reset button on the bottom of the disposal unit to restore power to the disposal. Flip the switch for the disposal to ensure this fixes the issue.
• Check the breaker. The disposal might have a wiring issue. If the circuit breaker was not tripped, check the outlet with a voltage tester to ensure power is flowing to the unit. If power is not flowing, turn the circuit breaker off, remove the faceplate from the switch, inspect the wiring, and tighten or secure any loose connections before turning the disposal's power back on.
• Check the garbage disposal wall switch. The switch's wall plate is another reason your garbage disposal might not work. Remove the switch plate and check the wiring connections. Tighten any loose connections, and then test the switch.
• Check the wires connecting to the unit. Tighten any loose wires.
  

Garbage Disposal Humming but Not Turning

Fix Flywheel and Impeller Jams

If the garbage disposal won't grind but the motor hums when you flip the switch, the impeller or inner flywheel is likely jammed. A jam usually occurs between the impeller(s) and the shredder ring inside the disposal, which can burn out the disposal's motor. Try the reset button; if that doesn't work, follow the next steps.

1. Turn off the power to the garbage disposal using the switch and the circuit breaker.
2. Insert an offset or hex wrench into the flywheel hole at the bottom of the unit. Then, use the wrench to turn the flywheel clockwise to dislodge any obstructions.
3. After removing an obstruction, restore power to the disposal and push the reset button on the unit to reset the internal circuit breaker. Run tap water into the disposal and flip the switch on and off, as this should spin the flywheel and cause any dislodged debris to be washed down the drain.

Garbage Disposal Draining Slowly

Clear the Drain Trap

Several problems can cause a garbage disposal to drain slowly, but a clog in the sink drain usually causes it. The fix usually involves disassembling the drain trap and discharge pipe to remove the clog.

1. Remove the bolts holding the discharge pipe to the disposal, then disconnect the drain trap and the discharge drainpipe.
2. Check for clogs or obstructions and clean the disposal.
3. If none are found, the clog might be in the branch drain line going into the wall. Clear the obstruction with a ​sink auger.
4. Reassemble the drain trap and reconnect the discharge tube to the side of the garbage disposal.
5. Run the water, turn on the garbage disposal, and check to make sure the water runs freely.

Garbage Disposal Leaking

Garbage disposal leaks can occur from several places on a garbage disposal. Common areas include the sink flange where the disposal connects to the bottom of the sink, the hose that leads from the dishwasher to the disposal, and the hose that discharges waste from the disposal to the drain system.

Garbage Disposal Leaking From the Top

The constant vibration of the garbage disposal can loosen the mounting apparatus that holds the appliance to the sink drain opening. This sink mounting flange is a likely place for leaking.

1. Turn off the power to the disposal.
2. At the disposal mounting ring under the sink, turn the disposal to the left (counter-clockwise from the bottom) to loosen and remove the unit from its mounting flange.
3. Apply a new bead of plumber's putty between the sink flange and the sink, then tighten the three mounting bolts holding the flange to the sink. When excess putty oozes out, wipe it away.
4. Reinstall the disposal and turn the power back on at the service panel.
5. Check for leaks as you run the water in the sink.

Garbage Disposal Leaking From the Bottom

Leaks can occur from the rubber hose that funnels wastewater from the dishwasher to the garbage disposal. To fix this, tighten the clamp on the dishwasher hose connected to the dishwasher inlet on the disposal. Replace the hose if it continues to leak. Also, check the fitting on the plastic pipe carrying wastewater from the disposal to the sink drain trap. This pipe can leak when the gasket​ gets old.

1. Check the bolts holding the discharge pipe to the disposal, ensuring they are tight.
2. If leaking continues, remove the bolts and the pipe and replace the gasket seal between the pipe and the disposal.
3. Reinstall the bolts and tighten them.
   

When to Replace a Garbage Disposal

If you have tried everything possible to fix the above issues, it may be time to get a new garbage disposal. If your disposal is smoking from a blown motor, water is leaking from the disposal itself, or it frequently clogs and makes loud noises, it might be time to replace the unit. Poor draining and frequently needing to be reset are also signs that a replacement is near. It is common to replace a garbage disposal every 5 to 10 years.

When to Call a Professional

Garbage disposal issues can occur due to regular wear and tear, improper use, or electrical connection problems. However, not all issues can or should be solved by a DIYer. When the disposal's wiring is faulty, loose, or damaged, it may be better to call a professional. Some issues may be symptoms of a bigger problem. In some cases, replacing your garbage disposal can be easier and more cost-effective. A professional can help you identify your best course of action.

Tips for Using Garbage Disposals

These additional tips are pivotal for keeping your garbage disposal in tip-top shape, extending its life, and preventing damage to the unit.

• Run water when using the disposal: Keep water flowing when using the disposal to blend the solid pieces and ensure easier passage down the drain.
• Keep the disposal clean: Keep the disposal clean by occasionally flushing a small amount of dish soap down the drain.
• Remove odors: Grind a lemon or lime peel for a fresh scent.
• Avoid putting certain foods down the disposal: Do not put fibrous foods like celery, pasta, corn silk, rice, bones, or pits down the sink. Cut large food pieces down. Fibers can get entwined, and hard bits can cause an obstruction.
• Sharpen blades: Grind a few ice cubes monthly to sharpen your disposal unit’s blades.
• Prevent grease buildup: Run the disposal with cold water to solidify fats and oils, making them easier to grind and prevent clogs.