Garbage Disposal

Here are some things you can try if your garbage disposal isn't working:

Reset the garbage disposal

Most garbage disposals have a reset button on the bottom that acts like an electric breaker. If the disposal is overfilled or has something caught in it, the reset button will "trip" to prevent damage. 

To reset the disposal, you can:

• Clear the issue by removing the solid waste inside the garbage disposal

• Press the reset button

• Turn on the water and disposal

If the garbage disposal won't turn on after the reset, Check the electrical circuit. The circuit breaker may have tripped. You can check your electrical panel or circuit breakers.

Examine the drain hole: If there is a blockage, you can:

• Turn off the electricity at the main disconnect

• Dismantle the trap

• Use a drain snake to loosen obstructions

• Turn on the water to see if the blockage has been removed

Check for leaks:  After the disposal is back to working order, check for leaks. The disposal needs free-flowing water to move food through the blades and down the drain pipes.

Check the outlet: If the disposal won't turn on when you flip the switch, there may be an electrical problem.

Check the motor: A humming garbage disposal is a common sign that the motor has gone bad.

Check for bad odors: A foul odor from the kitchen sink is a sign of a blocked garbage disposal unit. 

Other things you can try include:

• Checking the power supply

• Rotating the flywheel and impellers