Introduction
A garbage disposal, also known as a waste disposal unit or food waste disposer, is an appliance installed under the kitchen sink between the sink's drain and the trap. It shreds and grinds up food scraps so they can pass through plumbing easily without clogging drains.
Garbage disposals provide an efficient and convenient way to handle food waste and keep it out of landfills. However, like any appliance, they can run into problems and require maintenance or repairs. Some of the most common garbage disposal issues include:
- Jams from objects like bones, fruit pits, silverware, bottle caps, and glass getting lodged in the unit
- Leaky connections or corroded pipes causing water leaks
- Strange noises indicating worn or broken parts
- Foul odors coming from the disposal
- Tripped or overloaded disposals that stop running entirely
With some basic troubleshooting and DIY fixes, many common garbage disposal problems can be addressed safely without calling a plumber. This guide covers how to assess and resolve the most frequent issues so you can get your disposal grinding smoothly again.
Safety Precautions
Before attempting to fix your garbage disposal, you must take proper safety precautions. The most important safety step is to turn off the power to the disposal at the circuit breaker. This ensures the unit cannot turn on unexpectedly and cause injury while you are working on it.
Be sure to allow the disposal to fully cool before sticking your hands inside. The grinding components can get very hot during use. Give it at least 30 minutes after unplugging to cool down.
Also remove any standing water in the sink and disposal area. Use a cup or towel to soak up water. You want the area to be dry for safety and visibility.
Working on a garbage disposal always carries electrical and mechanical hazards. Take your time and exercise caution. Rushing through repairs can lead to mistakes and injuries.
Assess the Problem
Before attempting to fix your garbage disposal, you'll want to diagnose the issue to determine the best solution. Start by listening closely to the noises your disposal makes when you turn it on.
- A humming sound likely indicates a power issue. The disposal may not be getting electricity due to a tripped circuit breaker, faulty wall switch, or disconnected power cord.
- Loud grinding or rattling noises suggest there is a blockage or jam in the disposal that is preventing the blades from spinning properly. Food debris, broken glass, utensils, and other objects can commonly cause jams.
- If you hear no noise at all when you turn on the disposal, the unit may have no power going to it. There could be an issue with the wall switch, circuit breaker, or the disposal itself may be jammed and unable to start.
After listening for odd sounds, do a visual inspection of the inside of the disposal. Carefully look with a flashlight for any foreign objects lodged in the unit. Attempt to manually turn the disposal blades with the included Allen wrench. If the blades don't turn at all, this indicates a jam.
Finally, you can test for power issues with a voltage meter. Switch off the circuit breaker for the disposal, disconnect the power cord, and touch the meter probes to the disposal wires. If you get a normal 120v reading, power is getting to the disposal. If not, there's an electrical issue that needs to be addressed.
Clear Jams
One of the most common issues with garbage disposals is when they become jammed with objects like bones, fruit pits, silverware, bottle caps, etc. This can prevent the blades from spinning and cause the disposal to hum rather than operate normally.
To clear jams:
- First, unplug the garbage disposal unit or turn off the circuit breaker controlling it. This ensures the unit does not turn on unexpectedly while you are working on it.
- Insert an Allen wrench or hex wrench into the bottom of the disposal unit. Turn it back and forth to manually move the blades and dislodge whatever is stuck in them.
- You can also insert the end of a broom handle or wooden spoon into the disposal opening. Twist it around to dislodge objects lodged in the unit. Take care not to scratch the inside walls of the disposal.
- Run water into the unit while using the Allen wrench or broom handle to help wash away any loose debris.
- Check if the object causing the jam has been freed. Try turning on the disposal to see if it works properly. If not, continue working the Allen wrench or broom handle around until the blades spin freely.
- Avoid putting your hand inside a running garbage disposal. Always turn off the unit before attempting to clear jams. Wear gloves for protection when placing your hands inside.
- For stubborn jams, you may need to access the disposal from underneath to fully dislodge the blockage. Refer to your owner's manual for model-specific steps.
- Prevent future jams by running plenty of water before, during and after using the disposal to flush debris down. Avoid putting fibrous or starchy foods like corn husks down the disposal.
Fix Leaks
Leaks are one of the most common issues with garbage disposals. Water leaking from the bottom of the unit under the sink is usually caused by a problem with the flange or the pipes connected to the disposal. Here are a few things to try:
Tighten the flange ring
- Turn off the power to the disposal at the circuit breaker. This will prevent the unit from turning on while you are working on it.
- Climb under the sink and locate the flange, which is the part that connects the disposal to the sink drain. There will be a large nut holding the flange in place.
- Use a wrench or pliers to tighten this nut. Turn it clockwise to tighten. Make sure the flange is centered and secured tightly against the bottom of the sink.
- Turn the power back on and run water into the disposal to check for leaks. The flange ring may simply have vibrated loose over time and needed tightening.
Replace the flange seal
- If tightening the flange ring doesn't stop a leak, the flange seal is likely worn out. Turn off power and disconnect the disposal.
- Locate the flange seal, which is a large round rubber gasket. Remove the old seal and take it to the hardware store to find a replacement.
- Clean the area thoroughly, apply plumber's putty around the flange, and press the new seal into place.
- Reconnect and remount the disposal, then test for leaks. Replacing the flange seal provides a watertight connection to the sink drain.
Check pipes for cracks
- Check where the disposal discharge pipe connects to the drain line below the sink. If there are any cracks in this plastic pipe, water can leak out.
- Disconnect the disposal, cut out the cracked section of pipe, and install a new tailpipe with pipe clamps. Make sure the tailpipe diameter matches the disposal outlet.
- Check all other pipes and hoses underneath for cracks. Replace any suspicious sections. Running water into the disposal with all pipes tightly secured can confirm you've stopped any leaking issues.
Replace Disposal
Replacing a garbage disposal is often necessary when the unit is worn out or damaged beyond repair. While it may seem daunting, replacing a disposal is a straightforward DIY project.
First, turn off power and water to the disposal. Locate the circuit breaker that controls power to the disposal and switch it to the "off" position. Then turn off the shut-off valve controlling water flow under the sink. This will ensure everything is safely powered down before disconnecting anything.
Next, disconnect the drain pipe and dishwasher lines (if applicable). The drain pipe can be disconnected from the disposal at the tailpiece. Use a wrench to loosen the slip-nut holding the pipe in place, then pull the pipe off. Any dishwasher drain hose connected to the disposal should also be removed.
Now you can unmount the disposal. There will likely be a large nut holding the disposal to the sink flange. Use a wrench to turn this nut counterclockwise and completely remove it. You can then lift the old disposal unit out.
Mount the new garbage disposal by reversing this process. First set the new unit in place on the sink flange. Reinstall the mounting nut and use a wrench to tighten it clockwise. Then reconnect the dishwasher and drain lines, making sure the slip nuts are firmly tightened.
Finally, turn the water and power back on to test the new disposal. With the disposal clear of any objects, turn on the shut-off valve. Then turn the breaker back on. Run water into the new disposal and turn it on to confirm proper installation and operation. Be ready to promptly turn it back off if there are any issues.
With the proper steps, swapping out an old garbage disposal for a new one is a straightforward weekend project for most DIYers. The key is taking appropriate safety precautions by powering everything down in advance.
Eliminate Odors
Garbage disposals can start to smell bad over time from built-up food residue and waste. There are some easy homemade solutions you can try to eliminate unpleasant garbage disposal odors.
Use Citrus Rinds
The oils in citrus fruit rinds have natural deodorizing abilities. Try running leftover lemon, lime, or orange rinds through the disposal. The peels will help neutralize odors while also helping to scrub the inside. You can also try freezing citrus peels and then grinding them up in the disposal.
Baking Soda and Vinegar Treatment
For a simple odor treatment, pour 1/2 cup baking soda down the drain. Follow with 1/2 cup white vinegar. The chemical reaction between the baking soda and vinegar will help break down residue and bacteria that causes odors. Cover the drain with a stopper for 5-10 minutes to keep the fizzing contained. Then rinse with hot water. You can repeat this treatment regularly to keep odors at bay.
The acidic properties of citrus peels and vinegar can help neutralize foul garbage disposal smells. When combined with baking soda as an abrasive cleaner, this can break down and flush away the gunk and bacteria causing odors. With this homemade solution, you don't need harsh chemical cleaners.
Reset a Tripped Disposal
If your garbage disposal stops working suddenly, it may have simply tripped its overload protection switch. This safety feature shuts off power to prevent damage from overheating, much like a circuit breaker.
To reset a tripped disposal:
- Locate the red reset button on the underside of the disposal unit or at the bottom center. It looks like a small colored disk or may be marked with wording like “Reset.”
- Push in the reset button firmly until you feel it click or you hear it snap. This will reset the circuit.
- Try turning on the disposal again by flipping the wall switch to test if power has been restored. The reset button should remain depressed once reset.
If pushing the reset button doesn't restore power, the issue may be more serious and require checking the circuit breaker or calling an electrician. But resetting a tripped disposal is always the first step when it suddenly stops working.
When to Call a Professional
While some disposal problems can be addressed with simple troubleshooting or DIY repairs, there are situations when it is best to call in a professional plumber. If you've gone through the steps to troubleshoot the problem but the disposal still doesn't work properly, it may require a larger repair. Don't risk getting hurt by attempting something too complex.
Some specific instances when you should seek professional help include:
- Major leaks - While minor leaks may be fixed with new seals or pipes, significant leaks likely indicate a larger internal problem. Trying to fix a major leak yourself could result in water damage if not addressed properly. Leave major leak repairs to the pros.
- Electrical issues - Faulty wiring is hazardous. Since garbages disposals plug into electric outlets under the sink, wiring faults can expose you to shocks. Don't mess with disposal electrical problems yourself - hire an electrician or plumber.
- Persisting problems - If you've tried fixing your garbage disposal by addressing clogs, odors, and leaks to no avail, it likely needs professional service or replacement. Continuing to use a malfunctioning unit could result in injury or damage.
When in doubt, don't hesitate to call a professional plumber or waste disposal service. Paying for an expert repair is much safer and usually more cost effective than injuring yourself or allowing damage to spread.
Preventative Maintenance
Preventative maintenance is key to keeping your garbage disposal running smoothly long-term. With some simple habits, you can avoid many common problems and extend the life of your disposal.
- Avoid putting certain foods down the disposal. Starchy foods like rice, pasta, and potato peels can get stuck in the disposal and cause jams. Fibrous foods like celery and artichokes can tangle and block the blades. Grease and fat can build up over time. Avoid putting any of these down the drain.
- Run cold water when using the disposal. This keeps food particles moving and prevents clogs. Let the water run for 30 seconds before and after grinding to flush debris down the drain.
- Regularly run ice cubes. Put 5-10 ice cubes in the disposal and grind them up periodically. This will keep blades sharp and prevent grease buildup. Lemon rinds can have the same effect.
Following these simple tips will keep your garbage disposal clear and odor-free. Take the time for preventative maintenance, and you can avoid emergency jams and repairs down the road. A well-maintained disposal will serve you well for years.
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