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A humming garbage disposal usually means your motor still has power. You often do not need a new unit. You can fix many issues in 15 minutes.
Follow these steps before you buy a replacement.
Safety First Turn off the power before you touch the unit. Unplug the cord. Flip the circuit breaker if it has no cord. Never put your hands inside the unit.
Check for Jams A stuck object often stops the blades. Common culprits:
- Silverware
- Bottle caps
- Fruit pits
- Bones
- Small utensils Use a flashlight to look inside. Use pliers or tongs to remove the object.
Use the Hex Wrench Most units have a hole on the bottom for a wrench. Insert the wrench into the center opening. Turn it back and forth. If the flywheel moves freely, you fixed the jam.
Press the Reset Button The motor has an overload protector. Look for a red button on the bottom of the unit. If the motor overheated, the button popped out. Press it firmly to reset the unit.
Check Electrical Supply If the unit makes no sound at all, check your power. Check the circuit breaker. Test the GFCI outlet. Test the wall switch.
Look for Leaks Water damage ruins electrical parts. Check for:
- Water stains
- Rust
- Corrosion on wires Heavy corrosion means you need a new unit.
When to Replace the Unit You should buy a new disposal if:
- The motor fails internally.
- It jams too often.
- It leaks from the housing.
- It trips the breaker constantly.
- The unit is over 10 years old.
Troubleshooting saves you money. Check for jams and reset the button before you call a plumber.