A garbage disposal is one of the most convenient kitchen appliances — until it stops working and you need garbage disposal repair.
Whether it refuses to turn on, makes strange noises, or emits unpleasant smells, figuring out if your garbage disposal is broken can be frustrating. While some issues are minor and easy to fix, others could indicate a more serious problem that needs professional attention.
In this guide, we’ll discuss the most common warning signs that your garbage disposal is on the fritz, what you can do about it, and when it’s time to call a plumber.
Let’s look at seven signs that indicate your garbage disposal is broken.
1) It won’t turn on
If your garbage disposal won’t turn on, your unit may be broken. While it might be something simple like a tripped circuit breaker or a flipped reset button, a total lack of response often points to deeper issues. A failed motor, faulty internal wiring, or a burned-out switch can all prevent the disposal from powering up.Â
2) It’s humming but not grinding
The humming sound usually means the motor is receiving power, but the blades aren’t turning. This often happens when something is stuck in the flywheel or impellers, causing the unit to jam. In some cases, it could be a sign that the motor is failing or that the internal components are worn out and no longer functioning correctly.
3) You need frequent resets
If you find yourself constantly pressing the reset button on your garbage disposal to keep it running, that’s a clear sign that something isn’t right. The reset button is designed as a safety feature. It trips when the unit overheats or experiences a power overload. Needing to use it occasionally isn’t unusual, but if it happens frequently, it may indicate a deeper issue.
4) It’s making strange noises
Unusual sounds from your garbage disposal — like grinding, rattling, or metallic clanking — often warn that something’s wrong. While some noise is normal during operation, especially when grinding food, sudden or loud noises can point to a serious issue.
These sounds may be caused by a foreign object, like a piece of silverware or a small bone, accidentally falling into the unit. If not removed promptly, these items can damage the blades or jam the flywheel.
5) You have persistent clogs or slow draining
Persistent clogs or slow draining are common signs that your garbage disposal may not function properly.
While occasional clogs can happen due to misuse — like putting grease, fibrous vegetables, or too much food down the drain — frequent blockages often point to a deeper problem. If the disposal blades are dull, the unit may not be grinding food waste effectively, leading to a buildup in the drain line.
Slow draining can also indicate that the disposal isn’t pushing waste through the plumbing system as it should, which could mean the motor is weakening or the grinding mechanism has internal damage.
6) There are leaks or moisture under the sink
Leaks or noticeable moisture under the sink strongly indicate that your garbage disposal is broken or beginning to fail.
Over time, the seals and connections on a disposal may wear down, crack, or loosen, especially with frequent use or aging components. Water may begin to leak from the top where the disposal connects to the sink flange, from the sides where the unit is sealed, or from the bottom, often signaling internal damage.
A leak from the bottom of the disposal usually means there’s a crack in the body or that the internal seals have deteriorated, both of which typically require a full replacement.
7) Foul odors won’t go away
Foul odors coming from your garbage disposal may be more than an unpleasant nuisance. They may be a sign that the unit is no longer working effectively. A properly functioning disposal should thoroughly break down food waste and rinse clean regularly.
When bad smells persist despite cleaning efforts, food particles are trapped inside the grinding chamber or drain lines. This happens if the blades are dull or the unit isn’t flushing waste completely.
Tips before you call the plumber
Here are some simple, safe troubleshooting tips to try before calling a plumber for your garbage disposal:
- Check the power supply
Ensure the disposal is plugged in and the switch is turned on. If it still won’t start, check your home’s circuit breaker to see if it has tripped. - Press the reset button
Most garbage disposals have a small red or black reset button on the bottom. If the unit has overheated or tripped internally, pressing this button can restore power. - Clear visible obstructions
Turn off the disposal’s power and use tongs or pliers (never your hands) to remove any visible objects stuck inside, such as utensils or fibrous food scraps. - Manually turn the flywheel
Insert an Allen wrench into the hex hole on the bottom of the unit and turn it back and forth to free a jammed flywheel. If it turns easily afterward, try running the disposal again. - Flush with cold water
Run cold water for 30–60 seconds while operating the disposal to help clear out minor clogs and flush remaining food particles. - Use baking soda and vinegar
Pour half a cup of baking soda, followed by a cup of vinegar, into the disposal to help break down buildup and eliminate odors. Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse with cold water.
If these steps don’t resolve the issue, or if the disposal still hums, leaks, or fails to operate, it’s time to call a professional.
Call Salisbury Plumbing
If your garbage disposal is acting up — or completely out of commission — don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Salisbury Plumbing is here to help with fast, reliable repairs and replacements you can count on.
Whether you need a quick fix, a full installation, or a professional diagnosis, we’ve got the tools and experience to get your kitchen back in working order. Contact Salisbury Plumbing today for all your garbage disposal needs!
