We are Available 24/7
We are Available 24/7
It can be frustrating if you’re facing issues with your garbage disposal. If you ara being tried of saying this Why is My Garbage Disposal Not Working so this is for you read all and get the garbage disposal issues and make your garbage disposal healthy and make it recover perfectly. Garbage disposals help keep your kitchen clean by grinding up food waste, but when they stop working, you’ll want to figure out what’s wrong. Derks Plumbing is here to help! Some common reasons for a malfunction include power issues, clogs, or jams. First, check the power and reset button, then clear any clogs or debris. If these steps don’t resolve the problem, it might be time to call a professional plumbing repair service. Follow this guide, and your garbage disposal will run smoothly in no time.
In this section, we’ll go over the most common reasons for garbage disposal malfunctions and what you can do about them.
If your garbage disposal doesn’t make any noise when you turn it on, the issue might be related to power or the reset button. This could happen if the disposal is unplugged or if the circuit breaker has tripped. To fix this, first check that the disposal is securely plugged in. Then, try pressing the reset button located on the bottom of the unit. Finally, take a look at your circuit breaker and reset it if necessary.
If your garbage disposal hums but doesn’t grind, it’s likely due to a jam or motor issue. This can happen if something is stuck in the grinding chamber or if the motor is overloaded. To fix it, first turn off and unplug the disposal. Insert an Allen wrench into the slot on the bottom of the unit and turn it to free any jammed objects. If needed, press the reset button to restart the motor. We also offer 24-hour emergency plumbing services to help you anytime whenever the plumbing issues occur.
A clogged garbage disposal can cause slow draining or even a complete blockage. This often happens due to built-up food waste or when fibrous and starchy foods, like celery and potato peels, clog the system. To fix it, run cold water through the disposal to help clear out the blockage, and try to avoid putting fibrous foods down the disposal in the future.
If your garbage disposal isn’t working at all, the problem might be electrical. Start by checking the power connections:
Verify the Outlet and Cord
Make sure the garbage disposal’s power cord is securely plugged into the outlet.
Test the outlet by plugging in another small appliance to see if it’s working properly.
Check the Circuit Breaker
Sometimes, a power surge can trip the circuit breaker connected to the disposal.
Locate your circuit breaker panel and flip the breaker switch connected to the kitchen or disposal to reset it.
Press the Reset Button
Locate the reset button, usually found at the bottom of the garbage disposal unit.
If the button has popped out, press it back in to reset the disposal’s motor.
When a garbage disposal jams, it often makes a low humming noise but doesn’t grind. This usually means the motor is trying to work, but something is blocking the blades. Here’s what you can do to fix it:
Turn Off and Unplug the Disposal
Always ensure the disposal is powered off before attempting any repairs.
Inspect the Chamber with a Flashlight
Use a flashlight to look inside the disposal for any visible obstructions, like a utensil, small objects, or food debris.
Use an Allen Wrench to Free the Jam
Insert an Allen wrench into the hole at the bottom of the unit.
Turn the wrench clockwise to dislodge any blockages in the grinding chamber.
Once the obstruction is cleared, press the reset button and plug the disposal back in to see if it works properly again.
If water is draining slowly, the issue might be a clog in the garbage disposal or the nearby pipes. Here’s how you can address the problem:
Use a Plunger
Gently plunge the sink to help loosen any blockages that may be causing slow drainage. Make sure to cover the drain tightly to create a good seal.
Disassemble the P-Trap
For more stubborn clogs, you may need to remove the P-trap, which is the curved pipe under the sink. Place a bucket underneath to catch any water, then unscrew the P-trap to clear out any buildup or debris inside.
By doing this, you should be able to clear the clog and restore proper drainage.
Why is my garbage disposal not working Maintaining your garbage disposal can extend its lifespan and prevent costly repairs. We recommend always using cold water during operation to help solidify any grease, making it easier for the disposal to break it down. Avoid placing hard items like bones, coffee grounds, and fibrous vegetables, as these can damage the blades or cause jams. Regular cleaning is essential, too; using a small brush or grinding ice cubes and citrus peels helps remove buildup and neutralizes odors. Simple, regular care will keep your disposal functioning smoothly.
While DIY fixes may resolve minor garbage disposal issues, certain situations require professional expertise. Suppose you’ve tried searching on the Internet. Why is my garbage disposal not working Or basic troubleshooting like checking the reset button, removing small blockages, or clearing out food residue, yet the disposal still won’t function correctly. In that case, it’s time to bring in a specialist like us. Persistent clogs, unusual noises, or garbage disposal leaks can indicate deeper issues that require trained skills and tools to prevent further damage. By calling a professional, you ensure a safe, effective repair that restores your disposal and avoids potentially costly replacements in the future. Call us at (323) 284-2410 or contact us to get a free quote.
If your garbage disposal isn’t working, it could be due to power issues, blockages, or jams. This guide helps you identify and troubleshoot common problems, such as checking for power, removing clogs, and pressing the reset button. If these solutions don’t work, it’s time to call our licensed Derks Plumbing team for professional repair to ensure your kitchen stays in top condition and your disposal runs smoothly.
Only soft, biodegradable foods should be placed in the garbage disposal. Avoid hard items like bones, fibrous foods (such as celery), and greasy substances, as these can damage the disposal, cause clogs, or reduce efficiency. Stick to simple food scraps to keep your disposal running smoothly and prevent maintenance issues.
Whenever your garbage disposal smells bad, try this method: pour a mix of baking soda and vinegar into the disposal, let it sit briefly, and then flush it with cold water. This simple solution helps clear trapped food particles and freshens up the disposal effectively.
Use cold water with your garbage disposal, as hot water can melt fats. These fats may later solidify and cause blockages further down the pipes.
If your garbage disposal makes a humming noise, something may be stuck in the blades. First, unplug the unit for safety. Then, carefully check for any jammed objects and try to dislodge them gently. If the disposal continues to hum or doesn’t work, a professional may need to inspect it.
Ensure the garbage disposal is plugged in, then press the reset button located underneath. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, it may be time to contact a professional for assistance.
This website uses cookies to provide you with the best browsing experience.
Fast and Efficient Plumbing Services in Los Angeles
Client Reviews
Contact
Hours of Operation
Monday: Open 24 Hours
Tuesday: Open 24 Hours
Wednesday: Open 24 Hours
Thursday: Open 24 Hours
Friday: Open 24 Hours
Saturday: Open 24 Hours
Sunday: Open 24 Hours
© 2025 Created by Localpro1
