Why Is My Garbage Disposal Not Working?

Troubleshooting Tips For Your Kitchen Sink

Few things disrupt the flow of your kitchen routine like a malfunctioning garbage disposal. That unsettling hum when you turn it on, the burnt smell wafting up from the sink or the looming question of whether you can still use the sink if the disposal is on the fritz — these are all signs that something’s amiss in your Englewood kitchen.

But fear not! Garvin’s Plumbing and Sewer is here to shed light on why your garbage disposal might be on strike and what you can do about it.

Signs Of Trouble

A garbage disposal is designed to streamline your routines. Don’t let a malfunctioning appliance ruin your day. Read on to learn some of the signs that you need garbage disposal services.

When You Turn On Your Garbage Disposal, It Just Hums

If you’re hearing a hum but the blades aren’t doing their job, it’s likely a sign that the disposal is jammed. This could be due to a foreign object lodged in the mechanism or a buildup of food particles clogging the blades.

To fix this issue, turn off the disposal and unplug it from the power source to ensure safety. Next, use an Allen wrench to rotate the disposal’s impeller to dislodge any obstructions manually. If the jam persists, try using long-handled pliers or tongs to remove any visible debris from inside the disposal chamber.

Once cleared, plug the disposal back in, reset it and test it to ensure it’s working properly. If the problem persists, it may be time to seek professional assistance to avoid further damage.

Your Garbage Disposal Smells Burnt

That unpleasant burnt odor emanating from your disposal isn’t just a nuisance — it’s a warning sign. It could indicate overheating due to excessive use or attempting to grind hard objects like bones or fruit pits.

If your garbage disposal smells burnt, address the issue promptly to prevent further damage. To troubleshoot, start by turning off the disposal and allowing it to cool down completely before attempting any repairs.

Then, inspect the disposal chamber for any signs of damage or obstruction and consider scheduling a professional inspection to ensure the unit is functioning safely and efficiently.

Can I Use The Sink If The Garbage Disposal Is Broken?

While it’s tempting to avoid the problem altogether by steering clear of the sink, it’s not necessary. In most cases, you can still use the sink even if the garbage disposal or the sink sprayer is malfunctioning.

Just be cautious not to worsen the issue by dumping large quantities of food or hard items down the drain. Schedule garbage disposal repair service with our team to get your disposal working and your kitchen routines back on track.

Common Culprits

When assessing garbage disposal issues, it’s important to understand the factors that can lead to malfunctioning units. Here are some key reasons your garbage disposal might not be working properly:

• Food particles and debris buildup — Over time, food scraps and grease can accumulate in the disposal, leading to clogs and foul odors.
• Accidental introduction of hard objects — Despite their name, garbage disposals aren’t equipped to handle all types of waste. Items like bones, fruit pits and coffee grounds can damage the blades and motor.
• Lack of maintenance — Neglecting regular cleaning and maintenance can result in a sluggish or malfunctioning garbage disposal. Simple tasks like flushing with hot water or grinding ice cubes can help prevent issues.
• Electrical problems — If your garbage disposal fails to turn on, the issue could be electrical. This could range from a tripped circuit breaker to a faulty switch or motor.

If you’re experiencing any of these issues with your garbage disposal, don’t hesitate to reach out to Garvin’s Plumbing and Sewer for professional assistance. Our team of experts is here to help get your disposal back up and running smoothly in no time.

Solve Your Garbage Disposal Woes With Assistance From Our Team

A malfunctioning garbage disposal can throw a wrench in your daily routine, but with the right know-how and preventive measures, you can keep it running smoothly.

Remember, when in doubt, don’t hesitate to contact Garvin’s Plumbing and Sewer for expert assistance. Your kitchen will thank you!