A garbage disposal that isn’t working properly can be a real pain. You may not be able to get rid of food waste like you normally would, and the smell can start to build up.
If you’re wondering why your garbage disposal isn’t working, a few things could be causing the problem. Read on to learn about the most common issues and how to fix them.
1. There Are Blockages in The Pipes
If your garbage disposal is making a clogged or slow draining noise, it could be because of the pipes’ blockages. This is usually caused by food waste that has gotten stuck and prevents water from flowing through properly.
To fix this, you will need to remove the blockage. This can be done by either using a plunger or a plumber’s snake. You can also try DIY methods like pouring hot water or vinegar down the drain to break up the clog.
2. There’s an Electrical Problem
If you flip the switch and nothing happens, there may be an electrical problem. This is usually caused by a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse.
To fix this, you will need to reset the breaker or replace the fuse. If that doesn’t work, there may be a more severe issue with the wiring that you will need to have a professional look at.
3. The Inner Flywheel Is Jammed
A humming noise usually indicates that your garbage disposal is properly working. However, if you flip the switch and don’t hear anything, it could be because the inner flywheel is jammed.
To fix this, you will need to use an offset wrench to remove the bottom plate. Once you have access to the flywheel, you can try to dislodge whatever is causing it to jam. If you don’t have any luck, you may need to replace the flywheel.
4. The Disposal is Leaking
Another common issue is that the garbage disposal starts to leak. This is usually caused by a cracked housing or a loose seal, and the sink flange is typically the victim. The flange is the part of the sink where the garbage disposal mounts, which can become loose over time due to normal wear and tear.
If you see water leaking from your disposal, tighten the bolts that hold it in place and check the seals. If they’re cracked or damaged, they may need to be replaced.
5. The Disposal is Overloaded
Not to be confused with blockages in the blades, an overloaded disposal can also cause problems. This happens when too much food is put into the disposal at once, and it can’t handle it.
To avoid this, make sure you only put small amounts of food waste into your disposal at a time. You should also run some water while the disposal works to help move things along.
Expert Plumbing Help in Orange County
No matter what the issue is with your garbage disposal, the licensed plumbers at Biard & Crockett are here to help! Call us anytime at (714) 602-1299, or schedule an online appointment.