Troubleshooting Tips For Your Garbage Disposal
A garbage disposal is a kitchen hero, tackling food scraps and keeping your sink clear of clogs. But when it breaks down — whether it’s a jammed blade, strange noises or no power at all — it can throw a wrench in your daily routine. At Deets, we know how frustrating this can be, and we’re here to help.
Let’s explore some of the most common reasons garbage disposals stop working and what steps you can take to get yours back in action.
Why Your Sink Disposal Doesn’t Work: Potential Causes
One possible reason why your garbage disposal stops working is an electrical issue. If you have a garbage disposal that plugs in, ensure it’s properly connected. This cause may seem simple, but loose plugs are often the culprit.
Additionally, you can check your home’s circuit breaker. Overloaded circuits can cut power to the unit. If these quick fixes don’t solve the problem, the issue could lie within the unit itself, requiring further investigation or professional help.
What To Do If the Garbage Disposal Doesn’t Turn On
Sometimes, your garbage disposal might not respond at all when you flip the switch. This issue can occur if the motor overheats or fails due to excessive strain. Thankfully, most disposals come with a built-in safety feature — a reset button.
Do you know how to reset the sink disposal? First, locate the small red reset button on the bottom of your unit. Press it to restore power after an overload. If resetting doesn’t solve the issue, the motor or wiring could be damaged. This is when it’s time to call in a professional from Deets for repairs.
What Causes The Disposal To Jam?
Jamming is another frequent issue, often caused by items that shouldn’t go down the disposal. These include:
- Hard or fibrous foods
- Foreign objects
- Grease buildup
- Animal bones
To clear a jam safely, turn off the disposal and unplug it. If the disposal can’t unplug it, use the breaker to ensure it’s not receiving power. Try using a hex key to rotate the blades from the bottom of the unit. Never use your hands to remove debris.
Are Unusual Noises Coming From The Disposal?
If your home’s garbage disposal is making unusual noises — like humming, grinding or rattling — it could signal what issue is present. For instance, humming sounds often mean the motor is trying to work, but the blades are stuck. Grinding or rattling often indicates that loose components or foreign objects might be bouncing around in the chamber.
Preventative Tips: Keep Your Disposal Running Smoothly
The best way to avoid garbage disposal problems is with regular care and proper use. Follow these tips to extend the life of your unit:
- Always run cold water before, during and after using the disposal to flush out debris.
- Keep items like bones, eggshells and fibrous vegetables out of the disposal.
- Use a non-corrosive cleaner to remove grease and buildup. For a natural option, try a mix of baking soda and vinegar.
When To Call In The Plumbers From Deets
If your garbage disposal still doesn’t work after troubleshooting, it’s time to call the professionals at Deets. Persistent issues like repeated jams, electrical failures or unusual noises may indicate deeper problems that require expert attention.
At Deets, we specialize in garbage disposal repairs and replacements, offering reliable and efficient service that fits your needs. We’re here to ensure your kitchen stays functional and stress-free.
Contact Us For Your Kitchen Plumbing Needs
Garbage disposal issues can disrupt your daily routine, but they don’t have to. Whether it’s a quick fix or a more serious repair, knowing the common causes can save you time and frustration. When DIY solutions aren’t enough, Deets is here to help with expert service you can trust.
Reach out today to schedule an appointment and keep your kitchen running smoothly!
