Garbage Disposal Troubleshooting

Purpose

Quick diagnostic procedures for garbage disposal issues.

When to Use

• Disposal not running, humming, leaking, jamming, or bad odor

Decision Tree

Not Running (No Sound)

Press reset button on bottom of unit

Check electrical: wall switch, outlet, breaker

If power confirmed and reset fails, motor has failed — recommend replacement

Humming but Not Spinning (Jammed)

Turn off and unplug

Insert hex wrench into bottom socket, rotate to free impeller

Remove foreign objects with pliers (never put hand inside)

If impeller free but motor still hums, motor burned out — replacement needed

Leaking

Identify source: sink flange (top), dishwasher connection (side), discharge pipe (bottom)

Sink flange: tighten mounting ring or replace putty seal

Dishwasher connection: tighten hose clamp or replace hose

Body/shell leak: corroded through — replacement required

Bad Odor

Run ice cubes through disposal to clean impeller

Follow with citrus peels for freshening

Check splash guard for buildup

Important Notes

• Never put hand inside a disposal even when off
• Always confirm power is off before working inside unit
• Most disposals last 8-12 years — present repair vs. replacement for older units
• Disposal replacement is a quick job with good margin

Related SOPs

• Drain Diagnostics & Camera Inspection — related drain problems
• Options Presentation (Good/Better/Best) — repair vs. replace