A well-functioning garbage disposal is the biggest ally of any busy kitchen, making cleanup a breeze so it won’t turn your kitchen from a hub of activity to a frustrating mess. From strange noises to stubborn clogs, garbage disposal problems are all too common and can throw a wrench in your daily routine. If you’re unsure about which unit is best suited for your needs, make sure to read up on how to choose the right garbage disposal before making a decision.
The good news? Many of these common garbage disposal issues have straightforward fixes you can handle yourself. Whether it’s a unit that won’t turn on or unpleasant odors that won’t go away, understanding how to solve these issues is important to keep your kitchen the way you like it.
Problem 1: Garbage Disposal Won’t Turn On
When your garbage disposal refuses to start, it can be frustrating, but don’t panic—there are a few simple steps to troubleshoot the issue.
Is It Plugged In?
When your garbage disposal won’t turn on, the first thing to check is the power connection. It might sound too simple to be true, but many garbage disposal problems stem from a loose plug or tripped circuit breaker. Before you start worrying about more serious issues, make sure the unit is securely plugged in and that the breaker hasn’t been tripped.
Reset Button to the Rescue
If the power connection is fine and your disposal still won’t start, it’s time to look for the reset button. Located on the bottom or side of the unit, this little button can work wonders. Simply press it, and you might hear a click indicating the unit has been reset.
Often, this simple action is all it takes to fix common garbage disposal problems and get things working again.
When to Call in the Pros
If your disposal remains stubbornly silent despite your best efforts, it may be time to call in a professional garbage disposal service. Persistent electrical issues or a disposal that frequently needs resetting could indicate a deeper problem.
Problem 2: Unusual Sounds Coming from the Disposal
When your garbage disposal starts making strange noises, it’s often a sign that something’s not right.
What’s Stuck in There?
Grinding or rattling sounds usually mean that something foreign has found its way into the disposal. Common suspects include utensils, small bones, or even hard food particles. To safely remove these items, first, turn off the disposal and unplug it to avoid accidents. Use a flashlight to look inside and, if you see something that doesn’t belong, use pliers or tongs to carefully retrieve it.
Motor Issues
If your disposal is humming but not grinding, it likely means the motor is running, but the flywheel is jammed. This is one of those garbage disposal problems that can often be fixed with a little DIY effort.
- First, make sure the unit is off and unplugged.
- Find the small hole at the bottom center of the disposal.
- Use an Allen wrench to manually turn the flywheel back and forth to free the jam.
If the disposal still doesn’t work after this, it might be time to call in a professional to explore other waste disposal problems and solution tips.
Problem 3: The Clogged Kitchen Sink
A clogged kitchen sink can ruin your routine, especially if water isn’t draining as it should.
Clearing Minor Blockages
When faced with a clog, try these steps:
- Use a Plunger:
- Ensure there’s enough water in the sink to cover the plunger’s cup.
- Plunge with steady, firm movements to dislodge the blockage.
- Homemade Drain Cleaner:
- Pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain.
- Follow with half a cup of vinegar.
- Let it sit for a few minutes, then flush with hot water.
This method can often solve common garbage disposal problems without resorting to harsh chemicals that can damage your pipes.
When Clogs Get Complicated
Sometimes, clogs won’t budge with simple methods. Here’s what to consider:
- Call in a Professional: If your sink still isn’t draining after trying basic fixes, it’s time to call a plumber. Persistent clogs might indicate deeper issues within your plumbing that need expert attention.
- Prevent Future Clogs: Regular maintenance, such as periodic cleanings and being mindful of what goes down the drain, can help avoid these garbage disposal issues.
Problem 4: Unpleasant Odors from the Disposal
A garbage disposal with lingering odors can make your whole kitchen feel unwelcoming. But don’t worry, there are simple solutions to freshen things up.
Simple Cleaning Tips
Start by using natural cleaners to tackle those unpleasant smells. Pour half a cup of baking soda into the disposal, followed by a cup of vinegar. Let it fizz and do its magic for a few minutes, then flush it with hot water.
For an added fresh scent, grind up citrus peels like lemon or orange. This not only eliminates odors but also leaves your disposal smelling like a citrusy delight. These quick tips can often solve garbage disposal problems related to odors with minimal effort.
Deep Cleaning
If the smell persists despite your best efforts, it might be time for a more thorough cleaning. Start by disconnecting the power to the disposal, then carefully remove the unit for a deep clean. Use a scrub brush and a mild cleaner to scrub away any build-up inside the disposal.
This process may take a bit more time, but it’s worth it to keep your disposal—and your kitchen—smelling fresh. Regular cleaning is key to preventing odors and keeping your disposal in top shape, helping you avoid recurring common garbage disposal problems.
Call Rooter-Man for Professional Garbage Disposal Solutions
Dealing with garbage disposal problems can be frustrating, but with the right approach, most issues can be easily solved. Knowing how to solve issues like these ensures your kitchen remains a pleasant place to be. Call Rooter-Man for 24-hour plumbing solutions you can trust to keep the heart of your kitchen in perfect working order!