Garbage Disposal Repair: How To Fix a Garbage Disposal

Yes, in many cases, a garbage disposal can be repaired. Common fixes include clearing jams or tightening loose parts. If your disposal is experiencing electrical issues or a motor failure, a service professional can diagnose the problem and advise you on repairs or replacement.

While attempting to fix a garbage disposal yourself might seem tempting, it can be risky. Improper repairs can worsen the problem or even lead to electrical hazards and health risks. For safe and effective solutions, contact Mr. Appliance.

A humming disposal likely has jammed blades. Turn off the power and unplug it for safety. Try using an Allen wrench to rotate the blades at the bottom of the unit. If that doesn't work, it's best to call a professional to avoid further complications.

If your garbage disposal won’t turn on and it’s plugged in, there’s a chance the reset button has tripped. If this happens, the reset button will pop out about a quarter of an inch. Simply press it back into place to restart it, then turn the garbage disposal on.

If it still doesn’t turn on after you’ve hit the reset button, check your dedicated circuit breaker to see if it’s been tripped. If that’s not the issue, there may be electrical issues that a professional repair service can look into.

Most soft foods, small pieces of citrus peels, ice cubes, and dish soap are safe to put in the garbage disposal.

Avoid putting fibrous foods like banana peels, celery, and artichoke; starchy foods like potato peels and pasta, coffee grounds, bones, fruit pits, eggshells, oil and grease, household trash like paper towels, and chemical cleaners down the drain.

On a DIY scale of 1 to 10, a garbage disposal replacement falls between 5 and 7. Garbage disposals have numerous parts and plumbing hookups, so unless you have experience, it’s best to leave this job to a licensed professional.

No, we don’t recommend a blade replacement. While you can purchase a replacement garbage disposal blade (also known as a shredding plate), it typically costs around 25% to 30% of the cost of a brand-new garbage disposal. Plus, it may not be possible to replace this part on some units. So, in most cases, it makes more sense to replace the unit altogether.

Services may vary by location. For more information, including the most accurate list of services and guidance, contact your locally owned and operated Mr. Appliance for details and a customized on-site assessment.

Mr. Appliance can source and install parts for your garbage disposal unit repair that you may otherwise be unable to buy yourself. Many appliance parts can be difficult to find at regular retailers. Thanks to our extensive network of suppliers, we can track down the exact components you need.

Common garbage disposal parts we replace include:

• Flanges
• Gaskets and seals
• Lids and baffles
• Motors
• Tubing

Mr. Appliance is experienced in both garbage disposal repair and installation. We provide repair services for the two main garbage disposal types: continuous-feed and batch-feed. If you don’t know which kind you have, no worries — we’ll know what to do when we arrive. Our service professionals will assess your garbage disposal, diagnose the issue, and recommend repair or replacement. Get your garbage disposal fixed today.

Mr. Appliance handles garbage disposal installation and replacements quickly and efficiently. Our service professionals will safely disconnect your old unit, ensure proper disposal, and expertly install your new disposal, including plumbing and electrical connections.

Mr. Appliance has over 25 years of experience with waste disposal unit repairs and replacement, servicing a wide range of brands. Your local Mr. Appliance team is equipped to replace any part for garbage disposal brands like:

• InSinkErator
• KitchenAid
• Moen
• Whirlaway
• And other brands

Don't waste your time on DIY fixes or unreliable service providers. Choose Mr. Appliance for expert repairs that get your kitchen running smoothly again. Counting on Mr. Appliance for all your appliance repair and replacement needs means:

• Fast and reliable service
• Upfront pricing with no hidden fees
• Expertise you can trust
• Work backed by the Neighborly Done Right Promise® ^®
• Simple, online scheduling

Rather than searching online and vetting dozens of unknown companies, save your energy by choosing a team of local professionals with proven reliability and skill. With our numerous locations across the country, you have access to fast and courteous service in your neighborhood. At Mr. Appliance, our Neighborly Done Right Promise® ^® ensures quality work every time.

You may be able to do some preliminary checks before calling your local Mr. Appliance:

1. Check the power. Push the reset button on the built-in circuit breaker at the bottom of the unit. If that doesn’t work, check to see if your main circuit breaker tripped. If the problem persists, call your local Mr. Appliance for service.
2. Clear the drain. Unplug the unit and disassemble the trap — the U-shaped drain under the sink that catches food debris — and clear the clog with a drain snake. After you’ve removed all debris, reassemble the trap and turn the water on to check if the clog has cleared.
3. Rotate the blades. Stuck food waste can jam the disposal blades, preventing drainage. Turn off the unit, use an Allen wrench to rotate the blades, and try again. If it's still jammed, call your local Mr. Appliance for service.
4. Check for leaks. Leaks are most common at the sink flange, the dishwasher connection, and the discharge drainpipe. Clamp or tighten the bolts for a dishwasher connection discharge drainpipe leak, or replace the hose or pipe. Use sealant for leaks coming from the top of the sink.

For help with the above steps, or if you’ve tried everything and your garbage disposal still isn’t working, contact Mr. Appliance for professional help.

If your garbage disposal won’t spin but does hum, it's likely jammed. This can happen due to tough food scraps, fruit pits, or utensil mishaps. Mr. Appliance can diagnose and safely clear the jam to get your garbage disposal spinning smoothly again. 

A sluggish drain could indicate a clog deeper in the system caused by grease buildup or food particles. Mr. Appliance has the tools and expertise to diagnose the slow drainage or garbage disposal clog and ensure your disposal drains efficiently again. 

Leaks around the disposal unit can signal loose fittings, worn-out gaskets, or even damage to the unit itself. Mr. Appliance can pinpoint the source of the leak and provide a lasting repair to prevent water damage. 

Unusual grinding or clunking sounds can indicate dull blades, loose parts, or even a failing motor. Mr. Appliance can identify the cause of the noise and recommend the best course of action. 

A burning smell from a garbage disposal is a red flag and could indicate overheating due to a jam or electrical issues. Don't risk further damage — call Mr. Appliance to diagnose the problem and prevent a potential fire hazard.

Never put your hand into your garbage disposal, and always turn the power off while you’re checking it to ensure your safety and avoid serious injuries. We’re just a phone call away to help you fix your garbage disposal.