Is your garbage disposal not working? A malfunctioning garbage disposal can be a real pain, especially if you rely on it heavily. Fortunately, many common problems with garbage disposals are easy to diagnose and fix. In this article, we'll go over some of the most common reasons why garbage disposals stop working and what you can do about them.

The Most Common Causes of Garbage Disposal Failure

Here are some of the most common reasons why garbage disposals stop working:

1. Power Issues

If your garbage disposal isn't turning on at all, the problem may be related to power. Check to make sure the disposal is plugged in, and try resetting the circuit breaker. If these steps don't work, you may need to replace the disposal's switch or motor.

2. Jammed Blades

If your garbage disposal is making a humming noise but not actually grinding up food waste, the blades may be jammed. Turn off the power to the disposal and try manually rotating the blades with a special tool called an "Allen wrench." You can also try using pliers to remove any obstructions that may be stuck in the disposal.

3. Clogs

If your garbage disposal is draining slowly or not at all, there may be a clog in the drain line or the disposal unit itself. Try using a plunger or a drain snake to clear the blockage. If that doesn't work, you may need to remove the disposal unit and manually remove the clog.

4. Faulty Parts

Garbage disposals are made up of many different parts, and any one of them can fail at any time. If you've ruled out power issues, jammed blades, and clogs, you may need to inspect the individual parts of the disposal unit to find the problem. Common culprits include the impeller, flywheel, and shredder ring.

How to Troubleshoot a Garbage Disposal Not Working

If your garbage disposal isn't working properly, try these troubleshooting tips:

1. Check the Power

Make sure the disposal is properly plugged in and that the circuit breaker hasn't tripped. If the power is on but the disposal still isn't working, try resetting the circuit breaker or replacing the disposal switch.

2. Clear Jams

If the blades are jammed, turn off the power to the disposal and try rotating the blades manually using an Allen wrench or pliers. You can also try removing any obstructions that may be stuck in the disposal.

3. Clear Clogs

If the disposal is clogged, try using a plunger or drain snake to clear the blockage. If that doesn't work, you may need to remove the disposal unit and manually remove the clog.

4. Inspect Parts

If you've ruled out power issues, jams, and clogs, you may need to inspect individual parts of the disposal unit, such as the impeller, flywheel, or shredder ring, to find the problem.

Garbage Disposal Not Working FAQs

1. Can I fix my garbage disposal myself?

Yes, many common problems with garbage disposals are easy to diagnose and fix. However, if you're uncomfortable working with electrical wiring or plumbing, it's best to call a professional.

2. How do I reset my garbage disposal?

Most garbage disposals have a reset button on the bottom of the unit. If the disposal has overheated or jammed, try pressing the reset button before trying any other troubleshooting steps.

3. Can I put bones or fruit pits in my garbage disposal?

No, garbage disposals are not designed to handle hard or fibrous materials like bones or fruit pits. These materials can damage the blades or cause clogs in the drain line.

4. How do I clean my garbage disposal?

You can clean your garbage disposal by grinding up ice cubes and citrus peels. This will help remove any food residue or odors from the unit.

5. How long do garbage disposals last?

Garbage disposals typically last around 10-15 years with proper maintenance. However, if your disposal is frequently jammed or clogged, it may not last as long.

6. Should I replace or repair my garbage disposal?

If your garbage disposal is frequently jammed or clogged, or if it's more than 10-15 years old, it's probably time to replace it. However, if the problem is minor and easily fixable, you may be able to repair the unit.

Conclusion

If your garbage disposal isn't working, don't panic. There are many common causes of garbage disposal failure, and most of them are easy to fix. By troubleshooting the problem yourself or calling a professional, you can get your garbage disposal back up and running in no time.

Remember to take care of your garbage disposal by only putting soft food waste down the drain and cleaning it regularly to prevent odors and buildup. With proper maintenance, your garbage disposal can last for many years to come.

So, if you're having trouble with a garbage disposal not working, don't hesitate to try these troubleshooting tips. And if you need more help, don't be afraid to call a professional for assistance.