A garbage disposal makes kitchen cleanup fast and efficient—until the moment it stops working. Whether it hums but doesn’t spin, won’t turn on at all, or clogs constantly, a broken disposal can quickly disrupt your routine. Fortunately, there are a few simple steps you can try before calling in a professional. Knowing what to do when your garbage disposal stops working can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress.
Check for Power Issues
The first step is to make sure the unit is receiving power. Look under your sink for the small reset button located at the bottom or side of the garbage disposal. Pressing this button often restores power after an overload.
If that doesn’t solve the issue, check your circuit breaker. A tripped breaker is a common reason garbage disposals suddenly stop working. Reset it if needed, and test the unit again.
Look for Jams Safely
If your disposal is humming but the blades aren’t moving, it may be jammed. Never put your hand inside the disposal.Instead, turn off the power at the breaker, then use the included wrench (or a standard Allen wrench) to manually turn the motor from the bottom of the unit. This often loosens the jam.
Sometimes, a jam is caused by items that should never be placed in a garbage disposal, such as bones, fibrous vegetables, or coffee grounds. Once you’ve cleared the obstruction, restore power and test the disposal again.
Address Unpleasant Odors
If your garbage disposal works but smells bad, it may be clogged with food particles. Running cold water and a few ice cubes through the unit can help knock debris loose. You can also add a slice of lemon or a small amount of baking soda and vinegar to help with odors.
Know When It’s Time to Call a Professional
While some issues can be solved with a simple reset or by removing a jam, not all problems are DIY-friendly. Call a professional plumber if you notice:
The disposal leaks from the bottom of the unit.
Resetting or unclogging doesn’t restore function.
The motor makes grinding or metallic noises.
The unit frequently trips the breaker.
These signs may indicate motor failure, electrical issues, or damage that requires professional repair or replacement.
Prevent Future Garbage Disposal Problems
To keep your disposal running smoothly, always run cold water while using it, avoid overloading the unit, and never put items like grease, bones, or stringy vegetables down the drain. Regular care will extend the life of your garbage disposal and reduce the risk of costly breakdowns.
Call Mr. Drain for Garbage Disposal Help
A broken garbage disposal is more than just an inconvenience—it can affect your entire kitchen routine. If your disposal won’t turn on, won’t grind, or continues to clog, it’s time to call the experts. At Mr. Drain, we provide reliable garbage disposal repair and replacement services to keep your kitchen running smoothly. Contact us today at (530) 658-0972 for fast, professional plumbing solutions you can trust.
