Garbage disposal making noise? how to silence it and save money
What To Know
- The disposal doesn’t respond when the switch is turned on, or there’s a burning smell.
- Remember, a well-maintained garbage disposal is an essential part of a clean and functional kitchen.
- If the disposal doesn‘t grind food effectively or makes a metal-on-metal grinding sound, the blades may need to be replaced.
Are you facing a frustrating garbage disposal issue? Don’t despair! This comprehensive guide will empower you with the knowledge and techniques to tackle any garbage disposal problem like a pro.
Common Garbage Disposal Problems and Solutions
1. Clogged Disposal:
- Symptoms: Water won’t drain, and there’s a foul odor.
- Solution: Reset the disposal by pressing the reset button. If that doesn’t work, unplug the disposal and use a wrench to manually turn the flywheel.
2. Jammed Disposal:
- Symptoms: The blades won’t rotate, and there’s a humming sound.
- Solution: Unplug the disposal and use a pair of tongs to remove any objects that may be blocking the blades.
3. Leaking Disposal:
- Symptoms: Water is leaking from the bottom or sides of the disposal.
- Solution: Check the rubber gasket that seals the disposal to the sink flange. If it’s damaged or worn, replace it.
4. Humming Disposal:
- Symptoms: The disposal hums but doesn’t grind.
- Solution: Reset the disposal. If that doesn’t work, check the power cord and circuit breaker.
5. Disposal Won’t Turn On:
- Symptoms: The disposal doesn’t respond when the switch is turned on.
- Solution: Check the power supply, reset the disposal, and inspect the wiring for any loose connections.
6. Disposal Smells:
- Symptoms: The disposal emits an unpleasant odor.
- Solution: Run a mixture of baking soda and vinegar through the disposal to deodorize it.
7. Disposal Vibrates Excessively:
- Symptoms: The disposal shakes violently when in operation.
- Solution: Ensure the disposal is properly mounted and secured to the sink flange.
Troubleshooting Advanced Issues
1. Overloaded Disposal:
- Symptoms: The disposal struggles to grind food waste and makes a loud noise.
- Solution: Reduce the amount of food waste being disposed of at one time.
2. Damaged Blades:
- Symptoms: The disposal doesn’t grind food effectively, and there’s a metal-on-metal grinding sound.
- Solution: Replace the blades.
3. Electrical Problems:
- Symptoms: The disposal doesn’t respond when the switch is turned on, or there’s a burning smell.
- Solution: Contact a qualified electrician to diagnose and repair the electrical issue.
Safety Precautions
- Always unplug the disposal before performing any repairs.
- Wear gloves and eye protection when working on the disposal.
- Never put your hands or fingers inside the disposal.
- Use a flashlight to inspect the disposal for any obstructions.
Final Thoughts: Mastering Garbage Disposal Maintenance
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively troubleshoot and fix common garbage disposal problems. Regular maintenance, such as running citrus peels or ice through the disposal to keep it clean and sharp, can prevent future issues. Remember, a well-maintained garbage disposal is an essential part of a clean and functional kitchen.
What You Need to Know
Q: Can I use bleach to clean my garbage disposal?
A: No, bleach can damage the disposal’s components.
Q: How often should I clean my garbage disposal?
A: Ideally, every few weeks or after grinding large amounts of food waste.
Q: Can I dispose of bones or eggshells in the garbage disposal?
A: No, these items can clog or damage the disposal.
Q: What should I do if my garbage disposal is smoking?
A: Unplug the disposal immediately and contact a qualified electrician.
Q: How do I know if my garbage disposal blades need to be replaced?
A: If the disposal doesn‘t grind food effectively or makes a metal-on-metal grinding sound, the blades may need to be replaced.
