Garbage Disposal Troubles

Never put your hand down a garbage disposal. Period.

Now that we got that out of the way, here are several common garbage disposal issues.

Question: I have turned on the garbage disposal and there is no noise, or activity. Can you help?

If the disposal will not turn on and it is NOT making a humming sound, then there is an electrical problem. This may seem obvious, but make sure the disposal is plugged in.

If it is plugged in then press the Reset button found on the bottom of the unit. If it has reset, the button will be popped out.

If that does not work, check to see if the circuit breaker has tripped and turned off in the electrical service panel.

If the breaker has not tripped and the reset button is not popped out, then it’s either a faulty switch or a faulty garbage disposal.

• First locate the switch that powers the disposal unit. It should be located on the wall but may be under the sink.
• Turn off the circuit breaker at the service panel which powers the disposal.
• Replace the switch. Turn power back on at the service panel and check the disposal for operation.If the disposal will still not turn on and makes no noise, the garbage disposal is beyond repair and needs to be replaced.

REMEMBER: If neither of the above work for you then contact your local plumber or drain cleaner. Bob Oates Sewer Rooter at 206-789-4944. We offer emergency service & have qualified service technicians on-call & readily available. Call anytime – we’re here to help!

Bob Oates, Owner