What to Do if Garbage Disposal Stops Working: Troubleshooting Tips for Quick and Easy Fixes
What to Do if Garbage Disposal Stops Working?
If your garbage disposal stops working, there are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot and potentially fix the issue.
First, check if the unit is unplugged or if the reset switch has tripped.
If neither of these is the problem, you may need to call a professional plumber.
Another common issue is a drainage problem, which can be resolved by clearing any clogs with a cup plunger or an auger.
If the disposal is making a humming noise but not turning, you can try dislodging a jam in the flywheel with a wrench or needle-nose pliers.
If there is smoke coming from the disposal, check for burnt wires and replace them if necessary.
In case you need professional assistance, consider reaching out to a reputable company like Black-Haak, which offers a range of plumbing services.
Key Points:
- Check if the unit is unplugged or if the reset switch has tripped
- If not, consider calling a professional plumber
- Clear any clogs with a cup plunger or an auger to resolve drainage problems
- Dislodge a jam in the flywheel with a wrench or needle-nose pliers if the disposal is making a humming noise but not turning
- Check for burnt wires and replace them if there is smoke coming from the disposal
- Consider contacting a reputable plumbing company like Black-Haak for professional assistance.
Did You Know?
1. The world’s first garbage disposal was invented by architect John W. Hammes in 1927, and it was called the “InSinkErator.”
2. Garbage disposals use spinning blades to chop up food waste into small particles that can be easily flushed down the drain, allowing them to pass through the plumbing system without causing any clogs.
3. Contrary to popular belief, your garbage disposal does not have actual teeth. Instead, it features sharp impellers or lugs that grind the food waste against a stationary grind ring, effectively breaking it down.
4. Coffee grounds, eggshells, and fibrous vegetables like celery and corn husks should never be put in the garbage disposal, as they can clog the drain or damage the unit’s motor.
5. If your garbage disposal stops working, before calling a professional, you can try resetting it by locating the reset button underneath the unit or using an Allen wrench to manually rotate the disposal’s flywheel.
Troubleshooting A Garbage Disposal That Won’t Turn On
One of the most common issues with a garbage disposal is when it fails to turn on. Oftentimes, this can be attributed to a simple solution such as the disposal being unplugged or a tripped reset switch. To begin troubleshooting, check if the disposal is properly plugged into the outlet and if the outlet itself is functioning. If everything seems fine, locate the reset button, which is typically a small red button located on the bottom or side of the unit. Push the reset button and try turning on the disposal again. If the disposal still fails to turn on, it may be time to seek the assistance of a professional plumber.
In situations where the outlet is working, and the reset button has been pushed, yet the garbage disposal remains unresponsive, it is best to call a professional plumber. Attempting to fix the issue without the proper knowledge and tools can lead to further damage to the unit or even personal injury. Professional plumbers have the expertise to diagnose and repair complex issues that may require replacing parts or reconfiguring the electrical system.
- Always check if the disposal is properly plugged in and if the outlet is functioning
- Look for a red reset button on the bottom or side of the unit
- If the disposal remains unresponsive after pushing the reset button, it’s best to call a professional plumber.
Clearing A Clog In A Garbage Disposal For Proper Drainage
A common problem with garbage disposals is improper drainage. This can be caused by a clog in the drain piping or disposal itself. To determine if a clog is the issue, follow these steps:
- Remove any waste from the sink.
- Use a cup plunger to create suction and dislodge the clog.
- Place the plunger over the drain and pump it up and down vigorously for several seconds.
- Repeat this process a few times until the water begins to drain properly.
- If the clog persists, it may be necessary to use an auger, also known as a plumber’s snake, to remove the obstruction.
Here’s how to use an auger:
- Carefully feed the auger into the drain until you feel resistance.
- Rotate the auger clockwise to help dislodge the clog.
- Slowly retract the auger and repeat the process if necessary.
- Exercise caution when using an auger to prevent any damage to the disposal or plumbing system.
If the clog remains or the disposal continues to drain poorly, it is recommended to consult a professional plumber.
Note:
Remember to exercise caution when using an auger to prevent any damage to the disposal or plumbing system.
Fixing A Jammed Garbage Disposal That Makes A Humming Noise
To address a common issue with garbage disposals, a jammed flywheel can prevent the unit from functioning properly. This is typically indicated by a humming noise when the disposal is turned on. To fix this problem, follow these steps:
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Turn off the power: Before attempting any repairs, make sure to turn off the power to the garbage disposal. This is an important precaution to avoid any potential accidents.
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Locate the hex-shaped hole: Look for the hex-shaped hole on the bottom of the disposal. This is where you will insert a wrench or needle-nose pliers to resolve the jam.
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Insert the wrench or pliers: Insert the wrench or pliers into the hex-shaped hole. Use them to slowly rotate the flywheel back and forth. The goal is to dislodge whatever is causing the jam, allowing the flywheel to move freely again.
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Restore power and test: Once the flywheel moves freely, restore power to the disposal. Test it by turning it on to ensure that the jamming issue is resolved.
If despite these steps the disposal still doesn’t work or if the jamming issue persists, it is advisable to seek professional assistance. This will help avoid further damage to the unit.
- Turn off the power to the disposal
- Locate the hex-shaped hole on the bottom of the disposal
- Insert a wrench or needle-nose pliers into the hole
- Slowly rotate the flywheel back and forth until it turns freely
- Restore power to the disposal and test it by turning it on
Checking For Burnt Wires In A Smoking Garbage Disposal
If you notice smoke coming from your garbage disposal and it fails to work, there may be a problem with burnt wires. This issue usually occurs due to excessive heat build-up or a faulty electrical connection. It is important to act quickly to prevent any potential fire hazards.
First, turn off the power to the disposal at the breaker box to ensure your safety. Inspect the area around the disposal for any signs of burnt wires, such as discoloration or a strong burning smell. If you identify any burnt wires, it is crucial to have them replaced or repaired by a professional electrician to avoid any risks of electrical shock or fire.
Here are some key points to consider:
- Smoke and failure: Smoke coming from the garbage disposal is a sign of potential burnt wires, which can cause the disposal to stop working.
- Causes: The main causes of burnt wires in the disposal are excessive heat build-up and faulty electrical connections.
- Safety first: Turn off the power to the disposal at the breaker box before inspecting or attempting any repairs.
- Signs of burnt wires: Look for discoloration or a strong burning smell in the area around the disposal.
- Professional help: It is important to have burnt wires replaced or repaired by a professional electrician to avoid electrical shock or fire hazards.
Contact Black-Haak For Professional Plumbing Services
When facing a garbage disposal issue that cannot be fixed using the troubleshooting tips mentioned above, it is highly recommended to seek the assistance of a professional plumbing service. Black-Haak is a BBB accredited company that has been providing top-quality HVAC and plumbing services since 1956.
With a team of skilled and experienced technicians, Black-Haak offers various services including:
- Heating and AC installation, repair and maintenance
- Drain repair and cleaning
- Toilet and shower repair and installation
- Electrical wiring
- Surge protection
- Generator maintenance
Their comprehensive range of services ensures that any plumbing or HVAC issues can be addressed efficiently and with the highest level of expertise.
For convenient and reliable service, readers are encouraged to contact Black-Haak to schedule an appointment. Their friendly customer service team will assist in arranging a convenient time for a professional technician to visit, diagnose the problem, and provide an effective solution to get your garbage disposal up and running again.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I fix an unresponsive garbage disposal?
If your garbage disposal is unresponsive, there are a few steps you can take to fix it. First, locate the reset button on the bottom of the unit and press it, then try switching the unit on again. If this doesn’t work, check your main electrical panel to see if the circuit breaker connected to the garbage disposal has tripped. If neither of these solutions solve the issue, it may be necessary to inspect the installation wiring of the garbage disposal to identify any potential issues that need fixing.
What happens when garbage disposal dies?
When a garbage disposal dies, it can be due to a variety of issues. One possible reason is a loose plug or a popped out reset button. In some cases, the electrical switch or the circuit breaker may need to be replaced or reset. However, if none of these solutions work, it is possible that the motor of the garbage disposal is dead and would need to be replaced altogether.
What causes a garbage disposal to stop?
There are several possible causes for a garbage disposal to stop working. One common reason is a tripped reset switch that is designed to protect the unit from damage. This switch is activated when the disposal is overloaded or when a malfunction occurs. To resolve this issue, simply check if the garbage disposal is plugged in and press the reset button to reset the unit. Another possible cause is a broken disposal unit, which can prevent it from functioning properly. In such cases, it may be necessary to replace the unit or call a professional for further assistance.
What is the main reason for garbage disposal not working?
The primary reason for garbage disposal not working is a motor overload that leads to overheating. When the motor becomes too hot, it may shut off as a protective mechanism, preventing any further damage. It is crucial to give the appliance sufficient time to cool down before attempting to use it again. Additionally, clogging can also be a leading cause of garbage disposal malfunction. Any blockages in the drain or disposal blades can impede its operation. Proper disposal of waste and avoiding pouring grease or fibrous materials down the drain can help prevent clogs and keep the garbage disposal running smoothly.