You probably send food scraps down your garbage disposal and don’t think anything of it until it no longer works properly. Why is your garbage disposal not working all of a sudden? In this guide, we’ll reveal the common problems that cause your kitchen plumbing to malfunction.
When you need fast and reliable garbage disposal repairs, reach out to the team at Sansone Air Conditioning & Plumbing.
Reasons Why Your Garbage Disposal Is Not Working
If your garbage disposal doesn’t work properly, you’ll likely encounter one of the following warning signs. Each is a symptom of an underlying issue that will need repairs. Without intervention, the system will continue to have issues that may impact your overall plumbing.
Humming Sound
If you ask an expert, “Why is my garbage disposal humming but not working?” they’ll likely list three possible reasons for the noise:
- System overheating
- Dull blades
- Clogged grinder
The disposal will hum when it begins to overheat. If this is the case in your home, shut it off and allow it to cool down. You can also hit the reset button to stop the humming and address these issues.
It Won’t Turn On
A simple solution for a garbage disposal that won’t turn on is checking the power source. The plug could become loose or you may have issues with your electrical connection. Common issues with the disposal system that prevent it from turning on include having a dead motor or clogged drain pipe.
Water Leak
Hidden water leaks can wreak havoc on your plumbing system, including your garbage disposal. If you’re unable to locate the source of the leak, reach out to a professional plumber who provides water leak detection and repair services. They have the skills and equipment to patch any leaks and prevent further damage.
Inefficient Draining
Is your garbage disposal not working because of a clog? One of the top reasons homeowners need disposal repairs is a blockage in the drain pipe. It’s possible the blades aren’t able to cut through all food waste or a foreign object is inside the drain.
Strange Odors
Your garbage disposal isn’t working properly if food scraps are left to decompose inside the drain. This results in foul odors coming from the sink. Thankfully, you can try different home remedies to get rid of the smell and sharpen the system’s blades.
Types of Garbage Disposals
Before installing a garbage disposal, it’s important to get familiar with the two main types of systems. Both have the same function but different mechanics that may suit certain homeowners. Learn the key differences between them below.
Batch Feed Disposals
The sharp blades in a garbage disposal are a safety hazard, especially in households with young children. A batch feed disposal only runs when you put food debris into the disposal, cover it with a stopper, and hit a switch. They are a great option if you have safety concerns but they tend to cost more than the alternative.
Continuous Feed Disposals
A continuous-feed garbage disposal is the more cost-effective and widely used option. It doesn’t use a stopper and will run until you turn off the power switch. This setup allows you to dump food scraps into the disposal while it runs.
How Long Do Garbage Disposals Last?
On average, garbage disposals last about 12 years before you need to replace them. However, this timeline may differ by household. Factors that determine how long your system lasts include:
- How often you use it
- The types of food scraps you put in it
- The water temperature when you run it
- System maintenance
Get the most out of your garbage disposal by using some plumber-approved best practices. When you maintain the system properly, you’re less likely to deal with the garbage disposal not working and save money on repairs.
How Do I Maintain a Garbage Disposal?
Most homeowners don’t pay much attention to their garbage disposals until they quit working. You should keep a few maintenance tips in mind every time you use your system. Following these tips ensures that your disposal works properly and helps you avoid costly damage to the blades, drain pipes, or other parts of the system.
One of the top causes of garbage disposals not working is the type of food that you put inside it. The system can grind up most soft food residue, fruit and vegetable peels, and some small animal bones. Avoid putting items like corn husks or celery stalks in the grinder since the tough fibers will dull the blades.
Another helpful tip is to only run cold water when you use the garbage disposal. Hot water tends to weaken the system, so if you usually use the disposal with scalding-hot water, you may need repairs down the road.
Acidic foods like tomatoes and citrus fruits can corrode the system over time. Use the disposal each time you put these scraps in the drain to avoid damage. Grinding up citrus peels can help to eliminate odors from the system.
Garbage Disposal Repair & Installation Services
After reading this guide, you no longer have to wonder, “Why is my garbage disposal not working?” Get fast, reliable solutions when you call the experts at Sansone Air Conditioning & Plumbing. We offer professional garbage disposal repairs and installation services so you can eliminate food waste effectively.
Give us a call at (561) 220-7095 or submit our online form to book a service.