Troubleshooting Guide: What to Do If Your Garbage Disposal Suddenly Stops Working

You’ve returned from the Bay Area Renaissance Festival in Dade City. And, though it was fun, it made you think about how lucky the modern age has modern appliances. Because these modern marvel make our lives so much easier. And that is never more true than when we talk about the Garbage disposal.

Garbage disposals swiftly deal with food waste and keep our kitchens clean and odor-free. But what happens when this indispensable appliance suddenly grinds to a halt? It’s not enough to say that a malfunctioning garbage disposal can throw a wrench in your kitchen routine. And worse, it can potentially lead to costly repairs if not addressed promptly. But, don’t panic! Because in this blog, the experts at Billy the Sunshine Plumber walk you through the steps to troubleshoot and fix a non-working garbage disposal. So, let’s get started:

Step 1: Check the Power Source

The first step is to make sure your garbage disposal is receiving power. So, check if it’s plugged in properly and that the power cord hasn’t been accidentally unplugged. Also, inspect the circuit breaker or fuse box to see if a tripped breaker or blown fuse is the culprit. And then, reset the breaker or replace the fuse if necessary.

Step 2: Press the Reset Button

Most garbage disposals are equipped with a reset button, usually located on the bottom or side of the unit. So, if your disposal suddenly stops working, it might have overheated or tripped a built-in circuit breaker. Therefore, just press the reset button and see if that resolves the issue.

Step 3: Look for Obstructions

Sometimes, the disposal’s grinding chamber can become jammed with food particles, utensils, or other debris. But, before attempting to clear the jam, always ensure the unit is powered off. Then, using a flashlight, look into the disposal and carefully remove any visible obstructions using tongs or pliers. Also, avoid putting your hands inside the disposal to prevent injuries.

Step 4: Try the Hex Key

Many garbage disposals come with a hex key or wrench specifically designed to manually rotate the disposal’s grinding mechanism. So, insert the hex key into the bottom of the disposal and turn it clockwise and counterclockwise a few times to dislodge any stuck objects. Because, this method can often free up a jammed disposal.

Step 5: Check for Motor Issues

If the disposal makes a humming sound but doesn’t grind, it’s likely a motor problem. In this case, turn off the power to the disposal and manually rotate the grinding mechanism using the hex key. But, if the motor still doesn’t engage, it may require professional repair from the experts at Billy the Sunshine Plumber.

Step 6: Inspect the Wiring

Examine the wiring connections to make sure there are no loose or frayed wires. And if you’re comfortable with electrical work, you can attempt to tighten loose connections or replace damaged wires. However, if you’re unsure, it’s best to leave electrical repairs to a qualified technician.

Step 7: Consider Professional Help

If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and your garbage disposal still won’t work, it may be time to Google: plumber near me and call Billy the Sunshine Plumber. Because their licensed plumbers can diagnose the problem accurately and safely repair or replace the disposal if necessary.

Garbage Disposals are a Fantastic Part of Our Modern World. And Billy the Sunshine Plumber Make Sure it Keeps Humming Smoothly

Dealing with a malfunctioning garbage disposal can be frustrating. But with a systematic approach and a bit of troubleshooting, you can often identify and resolve the issue. (Of course, remember to prioritize safety at all times). And if you’re in doubt, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance from Billy the Sunshine Plumber.

Billy the Sunshine Plumber have been the Tampa Bay 24-hour plumber of choice since 1924 when he first opened for business. Plus, they are open 24/7/365 in Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando and Citrus counties. So, days, nights, weekends, or holidays, Billy the Sunshine Plumber is always there for you.