Garbage Disposal Problems: Troubleshooting and When to Call a Pro

Your garbage disposal makes kitchen cleanup easier, but it’s not indestructible. Here are common disposal problems, troubleshooting tips, and signs that it’s time to call a professional.

Common Garbage Disposal Problems

Disposal Won’t Turn On

Possible causes:

• Tripped reset button
• Tripped circuit breaker
• Faulty switch
• Burned out motor

Try this: Press the reset button on the bottom of the unit. Check your circuit breaker. If neither works, call a professional.

Disposal Hums But Won’t Grind

Possible causes:

• Jammed flywheel
• Object stuck in blades
• Motor failure

Try this: Turn off power, then use an Allen wrench in the bottom socket to manually rotate the flywheel. Never put your hand in the disposal.

Disposal Drains Slowly

Possible causes:

• Partial clog in drain line
• Buildup in disposal
• Clog further down the line

Try this: Run cold water and the disposal for 30 seconds. If it persists, the clog is likely in the drain line.

Bad Odors

Possible causes:

• Food residue buildup
• Bacteria growth

Try this: Grind ice cubes and citrus peels, or pour baking soda followed by vinegar down the drain.

What NOT to Put in Your Disposal

• Grease and oil – Solidifies and causes clogs
• Fibrous foods – Celery, asparagus, corn husks wrap around blades
• Starchy foods – Pasta, rice, potatoes expand and create paste
• Coffee grounds – Accumulate and cause blockages
• Bones and shells – Too hard for most disposals
• Non-food items – Glass, plastic, metal, paper

Disposal Care Tips

• Always run cold water when using the disposal
• Let water run 15 seconds after grinding stops
• Clean weekly with ice and citrus
• Avoid overloading—feed waste gradually

When to Call a Professional

• Disposal leaks from the bottom (seal failure)
• Frequent resets or trips breaker
• Persistent clogs despite troubleshooting
• Unusual noises (grinding metal)
• Unit is 10+ years old and having problems

Disposal problems you can’t fix? Call (415) 555-0123 for professional diagnosis and repair.