Your garbage disposal is a modern miracle, keeping your kitchen clean and odorless by getting rid of leftover food particles on your plates. This is why, when it breaks down, it can be quite frustrating. If you’ve got a garbage disposal that hums but doesn’t spin, there could be a few things that have gone wrong. From failed motors to jams and everything else in between, here is a look at why your garbage disposal might be malfunctioning and how to fix it.
Humming Garbage Disposals: Rhyme & Reason For The Fault
Imagine scraping the dishes after dinner one night, only to turn on your garbage disposal and find out that it won’t spin. You definitely hear a humming sound, but the disposal system won’t actually function. Strange, right?
Here is a list of possible reasons why your garbage disposal might be acting that way:
Jammed Impellers
One of the most common reasons for the garbage disposal not spinning is that it is not plugged in. Small food particles, bones, or even utensils like forks and knives can get stuck between the blades. This creates a physical blockage, preventing the impellers from spinning even when you start the appliance.
Tripped Overload Protector
Thanks to the jam, your garbage disposal’s internal overload protector may have tripped. This is a safety feature that turns on in such cases. The system may have cut power to the garbage disposal’s motor, meaning that even as it tries to turn, it cannot do so due to a lack of power.
A Damaged Motor
Another reason why your garbage disposal might not be spinning could be due to a faulty motor. You know, when you load up your garbage disposal to the maximum capacity just so you can leave the kitchen faster? An overloaded disposal can overheat your motor, causing it to short-circuit. Similarly, if the garbage disposal runs too long, the motor may also be damaged. This may be why you hear the hum of power, but the blades refuse to turn.
A Tripped Circuit Breaker
Finally, another factor that could be preventing your garbage disposal from activating could be your circuit breakers tripping. This could be the result of current fluctuations, activating the safety mechanism. It may be inconvenient when you go to turn on the garbage disposal, but it’s definitely more preferable to having your appliance break down.
Fixing The Faulty Garbage Disposal: From DIYs To Professional Help
Okay, now that you understand what might have happened, is there anything you can do to fix it? We’ve got you covered! While more serious problems should definitely be left to professional technicians, if it’s something simple, you can take care of it on your own. Here is what you can try.
In Case Of Overheating
First off, you should confirm whether the motor has simply overheated. Wait for 30 seconds, then press the “Reset” button at the bottom of the appliance. If the motor starts back up, the problem is solved!
If The Circuit Breaker has tripped
Next, consider if the circuit breaker has simply tripped. Go to your electrical panel and check. If the breaker is tripped, simply flip it over to fix the issue.
What If It’s A Lodge?
If that doesn’t work, there is probably something lodged in between the blades that’s preventing them from spinning. Here is what to do:
- Turn Off The Power: Switch off the circuit breaker connected to your appliance. This prevents injuries as you get to work.
- Dislodge The Obstruction: Use an Allen wrench or a wooden broom to turn the blades clockwise. This should dislodge any utensils or food particles stuck in between.
- Press The Reset Button: Finally, press the red or black button on the bottom of your appliance to start it right back up again.
A Damaged Motor
If none of that works, it might be the motor instead. In this case, it’s time to hang up the towel and call in professional garbage disposal technicians to take a look. Do not try to work on your motor on your own, as you may end up worsening the problem. Just schedule emergency repairs and wait patiently for experts to arrive.
Conclusion
Your garbage disposal humming but not spinning could be due to a few reasons. It could be a jammed fork, a tripped breaker, or even a faulty motor. Simply dislodge the jam or flip the breaker. If you’re unable to resolve the issue on your own, leave the repairs to garbage disposal experts for efficient and durable solutions.
FAQs
Why do garbage disposals overload?
They can overload because of too much food, starch, or even grease.
Can I use hot water while the garbage disposal runs?
No. Hot water can melt grease and fats, coating the blades and causing them to jam.
How much does a garbage disposal repair cost?
Depending on the issue, repairs usually range somewhere between $70 and $250.
