A garbage disposal is one of those kitchen appliances you don't realize you rely on until it stops working. Whether it's not turning on, making a strange humming sound, or refusing to shut off, garbage disposal problems can disrupt your daily routine and even lead to unpleasant smells or plumbing issues.
At Dalmatian Plumbing, we've helped countless homeowners diagnose and repair malfunctioning disposals. We're here to share the most common causes and what you can do next.
Common Reasons Your Garbage Disposal Is Not Working
If your garbage disposal won't turn on, isn't spinning, or is making a humming noise, there are a few possible reasons. Knowing how to spot the problem can help you decide whether it's something you can fix on your own or if you need to call a plumber.
Power Problems: Garbage Disposal Not Turning On
A power issue is one of the most common reasons for a garbage disposal not turning on. This could be due to a tripped circuit breaker, a faulty outlet, or a disposal that's come unplugged. If your garbage disposal won't turn on, start by checking the basics:
Is the unit plugged in?
Is the switch functional?
Has the circuit breaker tripped?
If everything looks fine, try pressing the reset button on the bottom of the unit. In many cases, this small red or black button gets tripped when the disposal is overloaded or overheated. If your garbage disposal reset button is not working, or the unit still won't respond, it may point to a wiring issue or a failed motor.
Humming But Not Spinning: A Jammed Flywheel
If your garbage disposal is humming but not working, the issue is likely a jammed flywheel. This happens when something solid or too large, like a fruit pit or utensil, gets stuck between the blades, preventing them from turning. The motor still tries to work, which causes that humming sound.
This is also what's happening when you notice your garbage disposal turns on but doesn't spin or your garbage disposal is not spinning at all. Fortunately, this problem is often easy to fix.
To try to fix this issue, first, cut the power. Never work on a disposal while it's connected to power. Then, use the Allen wrench that came with your unit (usually inserted into a slot on the bottom of the unit) to manually rotate the flywheel. This can dislodge whatever is causing the jam.
My Garbage Disposal Stopped Working Mid-Use
Sometimes, everything seems to be working fine, until your disposal stops working while you're using it. If your unit quits while grinding, it may have overheated from being overloaded.
Garbage disposals are designed with a built-in safety feature that automatically shuts them off when the motor is overtaxed. In this case, give it 10-15 minutes to cool down, then press the reset button and try again. If it still won't run, the motor might be damaged and require professional repair or replacement.
Garbage Disposal Switch Not Working
If the disposal doesn't respond when you flip the wall switch, the issue could be with the switch itself. Loose wiring, a faulty switch, or issues in the electrical panel could all prevent the disposal from receiving power.
This kind of electrical issue is best left to professionals like those at Dalmatian Plumbing, who can safely test and replace components without risking injury.
Garbage Disposal Won't Turn Off
On the flip side, what happens when your garbage disposal won't turn off?
This issue usually involves a stuck or faulty switch, or in rare cases, a wiring short that causes the unit to keep receiving power even after it's been flipped off. This is extremely inconvenient and could potentially cause a fire hazard. Turn off the disposal using the circuit breaker and contact a licensed plumber or electrician right away to inspect the system.
Garbage Disposal Not Working and Completely Silent
It could be a total power failure if your disposal shows no signs of life (no sound, no vibration, nothing). The lack of noise eliminates motor jams or blade obstructions. In these cases:
Check that it's plugged in securely.
Test the outlet with another device.
Inspect the circuit breaker or GFCI outlet for tripping.
If everything checks out and it still won't work, the motor may have failed and require replacement. This is when a professional inspection is necessary.
What NOT to Put in Your Disposal
Sometimes, the root of the problem is what you're feeding into the disposal in the first place. If you're dealing with repeated clogs or breakdowns, consider whether any of the following are entering the system:
Grease or oil
Fibrous vegetables (like celery or corn husks)
Eggshells
Bones
Coffee grounds
Pasta and rice
These materials can clog pipes, jam blades, and shorten the lifespan of your disposal. If you've accidentally sent these down your sink and your disposal stopped working, it may be time for a full system cleaning or repair.
How to Fix My Garbage Disposal: Step-by-Step Basics
Before calling a plumber, try these safe and simple steps:
1. Check the Power: Make sure it's plugged in, the switch is on, and the circuit isn't tripped.
2. Press the Reset Button: This is located on the bottom of the unit. Press it after an overload or overheat.
3. Look for Obstructions: Use a flashlight and tongs (never your hands) to check inside for stuck debris.
4. Use the Allen Wrench Slot: Turn the flywheel manually to free a jammed blade.
5. Test the Switch or Outlet: Try plugging in another device to see if the outlet is functional.
If your garbage disposal won't turn on after trying these steps, don't force it. A burned-out motor, electrical fault, or deep clog may require professional tools and knowledge to resolve.
When to Call Dalmatian Plumbing
If you've tried the steps above and your garbage disposal still isn't working—or if you suspect a leak, electrical issue, or internal damage—it's best to call in a professional.
At Dalmatian Plumbing, we provide fast, reliable service for all types of kitchen plumbing issues, including:
Garbage disposal repairs and replacements
We'll diagnose the problem, discuss your options, and restore your kitchen to full functionality without the stress.
Summary: Why Is My Garbage Disposal Not Working?
A garbage disposal that suddenly stops can be caused by any number of issues. If your garbage disposal is not working, there's usually a clear cause behind the malfunction.
From tripped reset buttons and power supply issues to clogged blades and overheated motors, the best approach is to follow a clear troubleshooting process, and don't hesitate to bring in a professional when the solution goes beyond DIY.
Need Garbage Disposal Repair? Call Dalmatian Plumbing
If your garbage disposal still isn't working and you're tired of guessing what's wrong, Dalmatian Plumbing is here to help. Our licensed plumbers offer quick, expert solutions that save you time, hassle, and money.
Contact us today to schedule a garbage disposal inspection or repair, and get your kitchen back to running smoothly.
