Common Garbage Disposal Problems and Solutions
Garbage disposals are a helpful addition to any kitchen, making it easy to dispose of food waste without dealing with odors from food sitting in the trash. However, just like any other appliance, they can run into issues from time to time. From jams and clogs to leaks and power issues, there are several common problems with garbage disposals that homeowners might encounter. Luckily, some of these problems can be fixed with a few simple steps, while others may require the help of a skilled plumber. Let’s dive into the most common issues and solutions to get your garbage disposal back in shape.
How Garbage Disposals Work
Understanding how garbage disposals function can be helpful when troubleshooting problems. The disposal unit sits under the sink and connects to the drain pipe, with rotating impellers that help break down food waste into small pieces that can easily pass through plumbing. The garbage disposal also connects to your home’s electrical system, which powers the motor and blades.
Common Garbage Disposal Problems and How to Fix Them
1. Garbage Disposal Jammed
One of the most frequent issues homeowners face is a jammed garbage disposal. This happens when something solid, like a piece of bone or a utensil, gets stuck between the impellers, preventing them from moving.
Signs of a Jam:
- A humming sound when the disposal is turned on.
- No grinding sounds, indicating the impellers aren’t rotating.
How to Fix It:
- Turn off the disposal and unplug it. Safety is a priority here.
- Use an Allen wrench. Most disposals have a small hole underneath where you can insert an Allen wrench to manually turn the impellers.
- Try hot water. Pouring hot water down the drain may help loosen softer items stuck in the impellers.
If these steps don’t work or if the problem continues, it may be best to call a plumber. A plumber can safely clear jams and ensure nothing is blocking the plumbing that might lead to further problems down the line.
2. Garbage Disposal Is Not Turning On
Sometimes, the garbage disposal won’t start at all, which usually points to an electrical issue.
How to Troubleshoot It:
- Check the reset button. Many garbage disposals have a reset button on the bottom that trips when the unit overheats or encounters an electrical issue. Press the button and see if the unit starts up again.
- Inspect the circuit breaker. If pressing the reset button doesn’t work, check the circuit breaker. Garbage disposals are high-energy appliances that can trip a breaker.
If you’ve tried these steps and still have no luck, there could be a deeper electrical issue. You’ll want a professional to examine the unit, as working with electrical wiring in a wet area like a sink is risky without experience.
3. Garbage Disposal Leaking
A leaky garbage disposal can create a mess and lead to water damage under your sink. There are a few common areas where leaks occur, such as the sink flange, drain lines, or internal seals.
Steps to Diagnose and Fix:
- Check the sink flange: The sink flange connects the garbage disposal to the sink. Tightening the mounting bolts can sometimes stop a leak in this area. A small amount of silicone caulk can also help seal the connection.
- Inspect drain connections: The disposal has pipes that connect to the main drain and sometimes to a dishwasher. Check these connections to see if they’re loose.
- Look for internal leaks: If water is dripping directly from the bottom of the unit, the issue may be an internal seal. Unfortunately, when disposals start leaking internally, it often means it’s time for a replacement.
Because leaks can cause extensive damage if not addressed, it’s a good idea to reach out to a plumber for assistance, especially if you can’t locate the source of the leak.
4. Garbage Disposal Clogged
Disposals are designed to handle small bits of food waste, but large amounts of fibrous materials (like celery) or fats can create blockages.
How to Clear a Clog:
- Avoid chemical drain cleaners. These products are often too harsh for garbage disposal and can damage internal parts.
- Use a plunger. If the clog is further down the line, a plunger may help dislodge it.
- Check the P-trap. The P-trap, a U-shaped pipe beneath the sink, may collect food particles over time. Removing and cleaning this section can often resolve clogs.
A professional plumber can assist in safely dismantling and clearing out any blockages in your system. Regular cleaning and mindful disposal habits can prevent these types of clogs in the future.
Tips for Maintaining Your Garbage Disposal
To get the best performance out of your garbage disposal, regular maintenance is essential. Here are some effective tips to keep your disposal running smoothly:
Run Cold Water During Use
Always use cold water while operating the garbage disposal. Cold water keeps any grease or fats solid, allowing them to be chopped up and flushed through the pipes rather than sticking to the sides and causing blockages.
Clean with Ice and Salt
Grinding up a few ice cubes and salt can help clean and sharpen the impellers, removing buildup and clearing out food particles.
Avoid Certain Foods
While garbage disposals can handle many types of food waste, it’s best to avoid hard, fibrous, or sticky foods that could cause jams or clogs. Here’s a list of items to avoid:
- Grease and fats
- Large bones
- Potato peels
- Fibrous vegetables (e.g., celery, corn husks)
Freshen Up with Citrus
Grinding up citrus peels can freshen up your disposal and help remove any lingering odors. The natural oils in citrus are effective at cutting through residue.
When to Call a Plumber for Garbage Disposal Issues
Some disposal problems can be fixed with a bit of troubleshooting, but there are times when professional help is needed:
- Persistent clogs or jams: If you’ve tried basic methods and the disposal remains clogged, a plumber can provide a thorough cleaning.
- Electrical issues: If the unit repeatedly trips the circuit or won’t turn on, there may be an underlying electrical problem that needs attention.
- Leaks or water damage: Leakage in any part of the disposal system should be addressed quickly to avoid damage to cabinets and flooring.
At Silco Plumbing, we handle garbage disposal repairs, replacements, and maintenance in the Stoneham, MA area. Our experienced team can diagnose issues, provide quick repairs, and install new units to ensure smooth operation. If you’re facing any disposal problems or need assistance with other plumbing issues, we’re here to help!
Contact Silco Plumbing Today!
Garbage disposals make life easier, but they can also be a source of frustration when they’re not working as they should. If you’re dealing with any of these common garbage disposal issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to Silco Plumbing at 781-438-8925. Whether it’s a jam, clog, or leak, our skilled technicians are ready to assist. We’re here to make sure your kitchen stays clean, efficient, and hassle-free.
