Troubleshooting Tips: What to Do When Your Garbage Disposal Stops Working

Having a garbage disposal that suddenly stops working can be a real hassle. At Five Star Restoration in Murrieta, we know how important it is to keep your kitchen running smoothly. While we provide these practical tips to help you troubleshoot and fix your garbage disposal issues, we also advise caution. Some repairs may pose a risk to your safety or cause further damage.

Here are some practical tips to help you troubleshoot and fix your garbage disposal issues.

5 Common Causes of Garbage Disposals Not Working

Understanding why your garbage disposal might not work can help you troubleshoot and fix the issue more effectively. Here are some common causes:

1. Jammed Blades: Food particles, bones, or other objects can jam the blades, causing the disposal to hum without turning.
2. Overloaded Disposal: Putting too much food waste at once can overload the disposal, triggering the reset button.
3. Electrical Issues: Faulty wiring, a tripped circuit breaker, or a blown fuse can cut power to the disposal.
4. Clogs: Food waste buildup can clog the disposal or the drain line, preventing proper operation.
5. Worn Out Components: Over time, the motor, blades, or other components can wear out, leading to malfunction.

Knowing these common causes can make it easier to identify the problem and move on to solving it effectively.

Why Is My Garbage Disposal Humming but Not Turning?

If your garbage disposal is humming but not turning, it usually means the motor is getting power, but the blades are jammed.

Here’s what you can do:

1. Turn Off the Power: Ensure the disposal is turned off to prevent accidents.
2. Use a Hex Key: Most disposals have a manual crank at the bottom. Insert a hex key and turn it back and forth to free the jam.
3. Check for Obstructions: Use pliers or tongs to remove any visible objects from the disposal.

If your disposal still isn't working after these steps, it might be time to consider a reset.

How Do I Reset a Garbage Disposal?

Sometimes, resetting your garbage disposal can fix the issue. Here’s how to do it:

1. Turn Off the Disposal: Make sure the disposal is off and unplugged.
2. Press the Reset Button: The reset button is a safety feature that can be found on the bottom of most disposals. It's usually red or black. If the disposal is overloaded or jammed, the button will pop out to prevent damage. To reset the disposal, locate the button and press it. You should feel it click if it has been tripped.
3. Restore Power: Plug the disposal back in and turn it on to see if it works.

After resetting, you might find that the problem persists, indicating a possible clog.

How Do I Check if My Garbage Disposal Is Clogged?

A clog can cause your garbage disposal to stop working properly. Here’s how to check and clear a clog:

1. Turn Off the Power: Always ensure the disposal is off before inspecting.
2. Look Inside the Disposal: Use a flashlight to check for any visible obstructions inside the disposal.
3. Use a Plunger: If you suspect a clog, you can use a plunger to try and dislodge it. Place the plunger over the sink drain and give it several firm plunges.
4. Manual Crank: If the plunger doesn’t work, use the hex key on the manual crank at the bottom of the disposal to manually turn the blades and dislodge any clogs.

Clearing the clog should restore functionality, but taking preventive measures can help avoid future issues.

Preventative Tips

To avoid future issues with your garbage disposal, remember to:

• Avoid Putting Hard or Fibrous Materials Down the Disposal: Items like bones, celery, and coffee grounds can cause jams and clogs.
• Run Cold Water While Using the Disposal: This helps flush debris and prevents disposal from overheating.
• Regularly Clean the Disposal: Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar or ice cubes and salt to clean the blades and eliminate odors.

By following these tips, you can maintain a smoothly running disposal. However, regular maintenance is key to preventing future issues and extending the life of your garbage disposal. If you're unsure about any maintenance tasks or if your disposal is showing signs of wear, professional help is recommended.

When to Call a Professional

If these troubleshooting steps don’t resolve the issue, it might be time to call in the professionals. At Five Star Restoration in Murrieta, you can rely on our expert repair services to ensure your garbage disposal works efficiently. Don’t hesitate to contact us for assistance with any plumbing issues.

Contact Us

For more information or to schedule a service, contact Five Star Restoration today at 951-368-2227. Let us help you keep your kitchen running smoothly!