Why Is My Garbage Disposal Not Working Properly?

If you’ve ever wondered, “Why is my garbage disposal not working properly?” You’re certainly not alone. Garbage disposal repair is a common household concern. This small but mighty appliance handles a lot of mess and waste, and when it stops working efficiently—or worse, stops working at all—it can create serious inconvenience in your daily kitchen routine.

Understanding the common issues behind disposal malfunctions, learning when to try a DIY fix, and knowing when to call in a pro can save you time, money, and stress.

Common Garbage Disposal Problems

Garbage disposals may seem like simple devices, but several things can go wrong with them, especially as they age or are used improperly.

Strange Noises and Leaks

One of the first signs something’s off is strange sounds—metallic clanking, humming, or grinding noises that weren’t there before. These usually indicate that:

• A foreign object (like a spoon or bottle cap) has fallen into the disposal.
• Internal parts, such as impellers or blades, are damaged or loose.
• The motor is trying to run but is jammed.

If your disposal is leaking, the culprit could be:

• A loose sink flange (where the unit connects to the sink)
• A cracked or corroded housing
• Leaky drain or dishwasher connection hoses

Leaks should be addressed quickly to avoid water damage beneath your sink.

The Disposal Won’t Turn On

If the disposal doesn’t turn on at all—no noise, no hum—it may not be receiving power. Check:

• If it’s plugged in (easy but often overlooked)
• Your circuit breaker
• The unit’s built-in reset button

If none of these solves the problem, the motor may have burned out, or the internal wiring may be faulty.

Disposal Hums but Doesn’t Grind

This is typically a jammed flywheel or impeller. When something gets stuck, and the motor can’t spin, you may hear a humming sound, followed by the unit shutting off after a few seconds. It’s a safety feature to prevent burnout.

Never continue to run a humming disposal—it could overheat the motor or trip your breaker.

DIY Fixes vs. Professional Repair

Not all garbage disposal issues require a service call. But some do. Knowing where to draw the line is key to fixing problems quickly and safely.

Resetting the Unit Safely

Most disposals have a small red or black reset button on the bottom. If your unit suddenly stops working, try this:

1. Turn off the disposal and unplug it.
2. Check inside the chamber for jams (using tongs or pliers—never your hand).
3. Press the reset button.
4. Plug it back in and test it.

If the unit powers back on, it likely shut down to prevent damage. If not, it might be an electrical or motor issue that needs attention.

Unjamming a Stuck Disposal

If your disposal hums but doesn’t spin, it could be jammed. Here’s a DIY method:

1. Turn off the power to the unit.
2. Use a disposal wrench or hex key (usually ¼ inch) to manually rotate the impeller by inserting the tool into the bottom center socket.
3. Wiggle it back and forth to dislodge the jam.
4. Try running the disposal again.

If this doesn’t work—or if you hear grinding or metal-on-metal noises—stop and call a professional to avoid further damage.

When to Call a Professional

It’s time to bring in the experts if:

• You smell burning or see smoke
• The disposal trips the breaker repeatedly
• Leaks appear in hard-to-reach or corroded areas
• The unit grinds slowly, even when not jammed
• You’ve tried a reset and manual unjam, but nothing changes

Professional plumbers have the tools and expertise to handle internal repairs, leaks, and electrical issues safely and efficiently. They can also advise if your disposal is nearing the end of its life and should be replaced.

Preventing Future Disposal Issues

A properly used and maintained garbage disposal should last 8–15 years. Here’s how to get the most out of yours.

Foods You Should Never Put Down

Despite the name, a garbage disposal isn’t a catch-all waste chute. It’s designed to handle small food scraps, not everything from your plate. Avoid putting these items into your disposal:

• Fibrous foods: Celery, corn husks, onion skins—these wrap around blades.
• Starchy foods: Pasta, rice, and potato peels swell with water and cause clogs.
• Bones and shells: These are too hard and can damage internal components.
• Grease and oil: They cool into a sticky sludge that clogs pipes.
• Coffee grounds: They clump together in the drain.
• Eggshells: Often believed to sharpen blades (a myth), they actually gum up the works.

When in doubt, throw it out.

Run Water Before and After Use

Always run cold water before turning on the disposal and continue running water for 15–30 seconds afterward. This helps:

• Flush debris through the drain
• Prevent food bits from building up
• Keep fats from solidifying

Cold water is preferred because it keeps grease in solid form, allowing it to break up and flush through instead of coating your pipes.

Clean It Regularly

To eliminate odors and keep your disposal fresh:

• Toss in a few ice cubes and citrus peels once a week.
• Sprinkle baking soda and vinegar inside, let it sit, and flush with hot water.
• Use a disposal cleaning brush or sponge wand to scrub under the rubber splash guard (where gunk often hides).

These habits reduce bacteria, sludge buildup, and unpleasant smells.

Inspect for Wear and Tear

Over time, your disposal may show signs of wear:

• Blades dull or corrode
• Seals weaken
• Housing cracks

If you hear unusual noises or see leaks, it may be time for an inspection—even if the issue seems minor. Catching these issues early can prevent expensive repairs later.

Reliable Help Is Just a Call Away

If your garbage disposal isn’t working properly, don’t wait for a minor inconvenience to become a major plumbing disaster. Whether it’s a jammed impeller, a leaking flange, or a dead motor, the team at Schneider Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning is ready to help.

With over 70 years of service in Jackson and Jennings County, our family-owned business is committed to keeping your home comfortable, safe, and running smoothly. We specialize in plumbing, heating, and cooling services that prioritize quality, professionalism, and long-term reliability.

Our licensed plumbers have the experience and tools needed to:

• Diagnose and fix garbage disposal issues
• Perform expert installations and replacements
• Offer maintenance advice to keep your unit working properly

Don’t let a faulty disposal disrupt your kitchen. Call us today to schedule a service. Your comfort is our mission, and your satisfaction is our guarantee.