The garbage disposal is the hub of many modern kitchens, as it disposes of small leftovers. It helps make after-dinner cleanups a breeze, as long as you treat it well. While this unit is incredibly handy and durable, it’s still susceptible to breakdowns. Below are some common types of garbage disposal issues and how an experienced technician will repair them. 

3 Common Garbage Disposal Problems

 1. Jammed Blades

If the disposal blades don't spin and the only response the unit makes when it’s switched on is a loud humming sound, then you likely have a bad jam.

A technician will climb underneath the unit and turn it off. Then, they’ll use a wrench to dislodge the jam between the blades. If it doesn't help, they’ll disassemble the unit entirely to effectively remove the debris that is causing the jam.

Don’t stick your fingers down the drain to attempt to dislodge the jam yourself, as this could cause injury. Instead, turn off the unit and call a professional. 

2. No Power

If the disposal does nothing when you turn it on, listen for any sounds. A humming indicates electricity is reaching the motor, but the blades are jammed. No sound at all means there is no power.

Make sure the disposal is plugged in. If it is, then try hitting the reset switch on the unit. If it still does nothing, check the electrical box to see if you've tripped a breaker or blown a fuse. If that’s the case, then contact a repair person who specializes in garbage disposals to restore the unit’s power. 

3. Unpleasant Odors

Bad smells can arise from your drain when food particles on the garbage disposal blades begin to decay. You can remove this residue by dumping one or two trays of ice cubes down the drain and chopping them up with the disposal. Follow this up with a few lemon slices, and your drain should smell clean and fresh.

If foul odors are stronger than usual or occur more frequently than normal, you likely have a stubborn piece of food stuck between the blades. To rid the unit of a permanent strong odor, a technician can take it apart and clean it thoroughly. 

For expert garbage disposal repair, contact Honest & Fair Appliance Repair in Walton Park, NY. They have served Orange County since 1976. They provide comprehensive appliance maintenance and repair, including stove, dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer repair. Visit their website to browse their services or call (845) 782-0460 to schedule a repair.