How to Fix a Garbage Disposal That Just Hums – A Step-by-Step Guide

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Imagine this: You’re preparing a delicious meal, and you’re ready to dispose of the scraps. You turn on your garbage disposal, only to hear a loud humming noise. The blades aren’t spinning, and you’re left wondering what to do. Don’t worry; fixing a humming garbage disposal is often a quick and easy task. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to get your disposal up and running again in no time.

How to Fix Garbage Disposal Hums But Doesn't Work - Home Tips

How Do You Fix A Garbage Disposal That Just Hums

Before we dive into the troubleshooting steps, let’s briefly understand what a garbage disposal is and how it works. A garbage disposal is a kitchen appliance that grinds food waste into small particles, allowing them to pass through the plumbing system. It consists of a rotating impeller with sharp blades, which is powered by an electric motor. When you turn on the disposal, the impeller spins and grinds the food waste against a grinding ring, breaking it down into smaller pieces.

Troubleshooting a Humming Garbage Disposal

Now that you have a basic understanding of how a garbage disposal works, let’s troubleshoot the issue of a humming disposal. Follow these steps carefully, and your garbage disposal should be back in action in no time.

Step 1: Reset the Garbage Disposal

The first step is to reset the garbage disposal. Most disposals have a red reset button located on the bottom of the unit. Press and hold the reset button for several seconds until the humming noise stops. This will reset the circuit breaker and may solve the problem.

Step 2: Clear the Jam

If resetting the disposal doesn’t work, there may be a jam. Turn off the disposal and unplug it. Use a flashlight to look into the disposal chamber and locate the jam. If you see any food waste or debris stuck, use a pair of tongs or a spoon to carefully remove it. Be sure not to reach into the disposal with your bare hands, as the blades are sharp.

Step 3: Check for Foreign Objects

Sometimes, foreign objects such as utensils, silverware, or even jewelry can get stuck in the disposal. These objects can jam the blades and cause the disposal to hum. If you suspect a foreign object, turn off the disposal and unplug it. Carefully inspect the disposal chamber for any objects. If you find anything, use a pair of pliers to remove it.

Step 4: Check the Power Supply

Ensure that the garbage disposal is plugged into a working outlet. Check the circuit breaker panel to ensure that the circuit breaker for the disposal is not tripped. If the circuit breaker is tripped, reset it and see if the disposal starts working.

Tips and Expert Advice

Here are some additional tips and expert advice to help you prevent and fix garbage disposal problems:

1. Regularly run cold water while using the disposal to flush out food waste and prevent jams.

2. Avoid putting hard or fibrous materials, such as bones, coffee grounds, and eggshells, into the disposal, as they can damage the blades.

3. Use a garbage disposal cleaner or ice cubes to clean the disposal and remove odors.

4. If the disposal is constantly humming or making loud noises, it may need to be replaced.

FAQ

Q: Why is my garbage disposal humming but not spinning?

A: This can be caused by a jam, a foreign object stuck in the blades, or a power supply issue.

Q: How do I reset my garbage disposal?

A: Most disposals have a red reset button located on the bottom of the unit. Press and hold the button for several seconds to reset the circuit breaker.

Q: Can I put egg shells in my garbage disposal?

A: No, eggshells can damage the blades of the disposal. It is best to avoid putting hard or fibrous materials into the disposal.

Conclusion

Fixing a humming garbage disposal can be a relatively easy task that can be done in a few minutes. By following the steps outlined in this article and using the provided tips, you can have your disposal up and running smoothly again in no time. Remember, if you encounter any problems or the disposal continues to malfunction, it’s always a good idea to consult with a professional plumber for assistance.

Are you interested in learning more about garbage disposals, kitchen appliances, or home maintenance? Check out our website for more informative and engaging articles like this one.

How Do You Fix A Garbage Disposal That Just Hums

Garbage Disposal Hums - How to Fix It Fast & For Free
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