A garbage disposal is a convenient tool for managing kitchen waste, keeping it out of the trash, and reducing clogs in your plumbing system. However, it’s common for waste disposals to experience occasional issues that impact their performance. Knowing what these problems are and how to fix them can save you time, money, and the hassle of an unexpected repair.
If you’re in the Minneapolis area and need assistance with your garbage disposal, this guide has you covered. We’ll walk you through five of the most common garbage disposal issues and offer clear, practical solutions to help resolve each one. For anyone seeking garbage disposal Minneapolis support, these tips can be a valuable resource for tackling frequent problems and knowing when to call in a professional.
What Is Garbage Disposal?
A garbage disposal, also known as a waste disposal, is a small but powerful kitchen appliance installed under your sink that grinds up food scraps. When activated, it uses spinning blades to break down waste into tiny particles, which then flow through your plumbing system. Waste disposals make it easier to manage kitchen scraps and keep your kitchen cleaner by reducing the amount of waste that goes into the trash. However, they aren’t designed to handle everything and can experience issues if they’re overworked or improperly used.
For example, certain types of food waste—such as fibrous vegetables, bones, and fats—are too tough or sticky for most waste disposals and can cause jams or clogs. Regular maintenance and proper usage go a long way in preventing these issues, but problems may still arise over time.
5 Common Garbage Disposal Problems and Solutions
Garbage disposals are tough and designed for regular use, but they can still encounter problems from time to time. Below, we cover five common disposal problems along with easy-to-follow solutions that will help keep your kitchen running smoothly.
- Garbage Disposal Won’t Turn On
One of the most common problems with waste disposal is when it doesn’t turn on at all. This issue is often due to power disruptions, an overheated motor, or a tripped reset button. Start by ensuring the disposal is securely plugged in, as power cords can sometimes get knocked loose and interrupt the power supply.
If the disposal is plugged in but still not working, press the reset button located at the bottom of the unit to reset an overheated motor. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, check the circuit breaker, as it may have tripped and cut power to the unit. If none of these steps restore power, it may be time to call a professional to safely diagnose and resolve any deeper electrical issues.
- Strange Noises or Grinding Sounds
Unusual noises, like grinding or rattling, are often caused by a foreign object, like a utensil or a small piece of bone, accidentally falling into the disposal. To investigate, always turn off and unplug the unit first. Use a flashlight to look inside, and if you see an object, carefully remove it using tongs or pliers—never your hand.
If the noise persists after removing any obstructions, the problem may be due to damage within the unit, like worn blades or a motor issue. This is when consulting a professional can be helpful; they can inspect and, if necessary, repair or replace damaged parts to restore the unit to its optimal function.
- Garbage Disposal Is Jammed
If your disposal hums but doesn’t spin, it’s likely jammed. This often happens when hard or fibrous food scraps, like bones or vegetable peels, become lodged in the blades. For safety, start by turning off the power at the circuit breaker.
Most disposals have a hex hole at the bottom that fits a standard Allen wrench. Insert the wrench and turn back and forth to manually loosen the jammed blades. Once the blades are free, check for any visible obstructions inside the disposal and carefully remove them. If jamming becomes a recurring issue, a professional can examine the unit to determine if any internal adjustments or part replacements are necessary.
- Foul Odors
Foul odors from disposal are typically caused by trapped food particles that have decomposed over time. While running cold water after each use can help flush out small debris, persistent odors often require a more thorough cleaning approach.
For a deeper clean, use a mix of baking soda and vinegar. Pour half a cup of baking soda into the disposer, followed by a cup of vinegar. Let it fizz for a few minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cold water. If this method does not fully eliminate the smell, a professional garbage disposal repair service can reach and remove stubborn buildup within the disposal and connected pipes.
- Slow Draining
If your waste disposal drains slowly, it often indicates a partial clog caused by food particles, grease, or other debris building up within the unit or drain pipes. Running cold water while operating the disposal can help, but if the problem persists, it may be time to clean the P-trap—the curved pipe under your sink that often collects food debris.
For those who are uncomfortable with disassembling pipes or dealing with persistent drainage issues, a professional can quickly identify and clear stubborn clogs, restoring normal drainage.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does garbage disposal repair?
Garbage disposal repair costs an average of $230, with most homeowners paying between $140 and $310. Smaller issues like clearing clogs or resetting the motor usually cost less, while more complex repairs, like fixing leaks or replacing the motor, can be more expensive. The exact price depends on the type of repair, any needed parts, and local labor rates.
What should I do if my disposal doesn’t grind food completely?
If food waste isn’t fully grinding, it may be due to dull blades or overloading the disposal. Avoid putting too much food in at once and feed items gradually. Regularly grinding ice cubes can help keep the blades cleaner. If the problem continues, a professional can assess whether the blades need replacement.
Can I put shrimp shells or other seafood waste down the disposal?
It’s generally best to avoid putting shrimp shells, crab shells, or other seafood waste in the disposal. Shells are hard and can dull or damage the blades, and seafood waste can lead to lingering odors if particles get trapped. Composting or disposing of these items in the trash is preferable.
Conclusion
A garbage disposal is a valuable addition to any kitchen, helping to manage waste efficiently and keep pipes clear. By addressing common problems quickly and following basic maintenance tips, you can keep your waste disposal working smoothly. However, for recurring issues or more serious problems, professional help can make a big difference in keeping your kitchen running efficiently.
In Minneapolis, True Plumbing Solutions provides expert garbage disposal repair and maintenance services. For reliable and efficient service, contact us to schedule an appointment and get your disposal back in top shape!
