Garbage Disposal Troubleshooting

The overload protector is designed to shut off the garbage disposal if it's overloaded or if there's a mechanical problem.

1. Check Power Supply:
   • Ensure your garbage disposal is plugged in.
   • Verify if there's power reaching the unit. You can do this by checking if other appliances on the same circuit are working.
2. Listen for a Humming Sound:
   • Turn on the disposal. Do you hear a humming sound? This could mean the motor is trying to run, but something is blocking it.
3. Clearing Obstructions:
   • Turn off and unplug the disposal.
   • Check for foreign objects in the disposal chamber (use a flashlight for better visibility).
   • Rotate the flywheel with a wrench (usually at the bottom of the disposal) to ensure it moves freely.
4. Checking the Motor:
   • If you're comfortable using an ammeter, check the motor’s amperage draw against the rating on its nameplate.
   • A higher reading can indicate an issue with the start winding in the motor.
5. Inspect the Overload Protector:
   • Locate the reset button (usually at the bottom of the unit).
   • If it’s popped out, press it to reset. If it trips again, there might be a deeper issue.
6. Identifying Motor Problems:
   • Use a multimeter to test the motor’s windings.
   • Set the multimeter to the ohms setting and check the resistance of the motor's windings by placing the test leads on the motor's terminals.
   • Compare your reading with the standard resistance value typically found in the manual. A significant deviation suggests a problem with the windings.
7. Check the Start Relay:
   • Locate the start relay, often attached to the side of the motor.
   • With the power off, remove the relay and inspect it for any signs of damage or burning.
   • You can test the relay with a multimeter set to continuity mode. Connect the leads to the relay terminals and check for continuity. If there's no continuity where there should be (or vice versa), the relay may need replacing.

When your garbage disposal operates erratically, it could be due to several reasons.

1. Check for Loose Connections:
   • Wiring Check: Ensure the disposal is unplugged. Inspect all visible wiring for looseness or damage. Tighten any loose connections and replace damaged wires.
   • Motor and Switch Inspection: Check the connections to the motor and the switch. Make sure everything is securely fastened.
2. Inspect the Stopper:
   • Examine the stopper (the part that plugs the sink drain). If it’s worn or broken, it might not be triggering the disposal correctly. Replace it if necessary.
3. Test the Wall Switch:
   • If you suspect the switch is defective, you can test it with a multimeter. Ensure the power is off before removing the switch plate and testing for continuity.
   • Alternatively, if you're not comfortable with electrical testing, you can call an electrician to test and (if necessary) replace the switch.
4. Verify Correct Wiring:
   • Consult the installation manual for your garbage disposal to confirm that it’s wired correctly.
   • If you’re not sure or if the wiring seems complex, consider taking a picture and seeking a professional.

If your garbage disposal refuses to run, it could be due to several factors.

1. Overload Protector:
   • Check if the overload protector (usually a red button on the bottom of the unit) has tripped. Press it to reset. If it trips again immediately, there might be a more significant issue.
2. Fuse or Circuit Breaker:
   • Verify if the fuse or circuit breaker in your electrical panel has blown or tripped. Reset the breaker or replace the fuse as needed.
3. Wall Switch Inspection:
   • Test the wall switch for proper operation. You can use a multimeter to check for continuity. Replace the switch if it’s defective.
4. Motor Windings:
   • Inspect the motor windings for any signs of burnout. This usually requires removing the disposal unit and visually inspecting the motor. Burnt windings will often have visible damage or a burnt smell.
5. Wiring Issues:
   • Check for any open (disconnected) or shorted (touching each other) wires. Ensure all connections are secure and undamaged. Repair or replace wiring as necessary.
6. Relay Check:
   • Inspect the relay (if your disposal has one). You can test it with a multimeter set to continuity mode. Replace the relay if it shows signs of malfunction or if the continuity test fails.

Varies

1. Inspect the Wall Switch:
   • Turn off the power to the disposal at the circuit breaker.
   • Remove the faceplate and test the switch with a multimeter for continuity. Replace the switch if it's defective.
2. Check for Wiring Short:
   • With the power still off, examine the disposal's wiring. Look for any signs of damaged or frayed wires that could cause a short circuit.
   • Repair or replace any damaged wiring.
3. Verify Wiring Connections:
   • Consult the disposal's wiring diagram (usually found in the manual) to ensure all connections are correct.
   • Make any necessary adjustments to the wiring according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

A slow water flow can be due to a partial clog or issues with the shredder.

1. Check for Drain Clogs:
   • Inspect the drain for any visible clogs. Use a plunger or a plumber’s snake to clear blockages.
   • Run water to see if the flow improves after unclogging.
2. Inspect Shredder Teeth:
   • Turn off and unplug the disposal.
   • Use a flashlight to look inside the disposal for any clogged shredder teeth.
   • Clear any trapped food particles with a wooden spoon or similar tool (never use your hand).
   • Flush with plenty of water to ensure the shredder is clear.

Varies

1. Remove Undisposable Items:
   • Check the hopper for items that shouldn't be in a garbage disposal, like hard bones or fibrous materials, and remove them.
2. Inspect the Flywheel:
   • Ensure the disposal is off and unplugged. Check if the flywheel is damaged or obstructed. You may need a wrench to manually turn it and check for smooth operation.
3. Ensure Sufficient Water Flow:
   • Run water and check if it's flowing adequately through the disposal. Insufficient water can affect grinding efficiency.
4. Check the Shredder Ring:
   • Look inside the disposal for any signs of wear or damage to the shredder ring. Replace it if it's worn or broken.

Abnormal noises can indicate several issues.

1. Clear the Hopper:
   • Like with slow grinding, ensure no foreign objects are causing the noise.
2. Tighten Mounting Screws:
   • Loose mounting screws can cause rattling sounds. Tighten them as needed.
3. Flywheel Inspection:
   • Check if the flywheel is broken or loose, contributing to the noise.
4. Motor Bearings Check:
   • Damaged or worn motor bearings might be the culprit. Inspect them for wear or damage.

Varies

1. Safety First:
   • Disconnect the electricity before starting your inspection.
2. Mounting Screws:
   • Check and tighten any loose mounting screws.
3. Inspect the Sink Flange:
   • Check the putty around the sink flange for gaps or deterioration. Reapply putty if necessary.
4. Tail Pipe Gasket:
   • Examine the gasket around the tail pipe for leaks. Replace the gasket if it's damaged.
5. Hopper Inspection:
   • Look for holes or cracks in the hopper that might cause leaks.
6. Dishwasher/Disposer Connector:
   • Check if this connector is cracked or leaking, and replace it if needed.
7. Motor Assembly Seals:
   • If water is leaking through the motor assembly, the seals might be faulty. These may require professional repair or replacement.