Garbage Disposal Repair: Troubleshooting a Non-Working Disposal
About This Project
This project details how to troubleshoot and repair a garbage disposal that is not working. The first step is to check for any obstructions by shining a flashlight into the chamber and removing any debris with tongs or pliers. Next, reset the garbage disposal by pressing the red reset button on the bottom. If it doesn't reset, insert an Allen wrench into the reset hole and rotate it. Finally, if a humming sound is heard, the motor might be seized. Turn off the power and use an Allen wrench to try turning the impeller manually. If it doesn't turn, contact a plumber.
Best for experienced DIYers and homeowners with some experience.
Tools & Materials
Adjustable Wrench
NITECORE 4000 Lumens USB-C LED Rechargeable Tactical Flashlight P20iX
Channellock 12 in. V-Jaw Tongue and Groove Pliers 442
ACDelco Angle Torque Wrench ACDARM315-3A
Adjustable Wrench
Fits various nut and bolt sizes with its adjustable jaw.
NITECORE 4000 Lumens USB-C LED Rechargeable Tactical Flashlight P20iX
The NITECORE P20iX is unrivaled when it comes to performance. NITECORE took the beloved P20i frame and maintained the compact size, ergonomics and doubled the power with 4 LEDs. This Xtreme high lumen
Channellock 12 in. V-Jaw Tongue and Groove Pliers 442
CHANNELLOCK 442 12" Tongue & Groove Pliers feature a unique v-jaw design that creates more points of contact on round stock and tubing. These pliers are built to last with a PERMALOCK fastener to eliminate
ACDelco Angle Torque Wrench ACDARM315-3A
This is a 3/8 in. digital torque wrench. It has 30 memory settings. It works clockwise and counter-clockwise.
Steps
Reset the Garbage Disposal
5 minsBefore starting any repairs, always prioritize safety. Turn off the power to the garbage disposal at the circuit breaker. Locate the reset button (usually red) on the bottom of the unit. If tripped, press it to reset. If it doesn't reset, carefully insert an Allen wrench into the reset hole located on the bottom and gently rotate it back and forth to free any jammed impellers.
Inspect for a Seized Garbage Disposal Motor
15 minsIf you hear a humming sound, the motor might be overloaded or seized. Turn off the power again at the breaker. Use the Allen wrench to attempt manually rotating the impeller. If it turns freely, the problem might be electrical. If it's seized, the motor needs professional repair. Contact a qualified plumber.
Common Problems
Safety concern: Always disconnect the power to the garbage disposal before working on it.
Solution: Take proper safety precautions. Always disconnect the power to the garbage disposal before working on it.
Prevention: Always follow safety guidelines before starting the project.
Failure to turn off the power at the circuit breaker can lead to serious injury.
Solution: To avoid this issue: Be mindful of this warning and take appropriate precautions.
The under-sink area can be crowded and dark. Use a flashlight if needed to safely locate the reset button and avoid touching any other components.
Solution: To avoid this issue: Be mindful of this warning and take appropriate precautions.
Disposal won't reset after pressing the button.
Solution: If the reset button has popped out, it will click and stay in when you press it. If it doesn't stay in, the motor is likely still jammed or has a more serious internal failure.
Disposal won't turn on after brief use due to tripped reset button.
Solution: If the disposal motor overheats, you will often hear a 'click' sound when the reset button's internal breaker trips.
The reset button will not stay depressed if the motor is still too hot. Allow it more time to cool before trying again.
Solution: To avoid this issue: Be mindful of this warning and take appropriate precautions.
Disposal won't turn on and makes no noise.
Solution: If the disposal made no sound when you tried to turn it on initially, the reset button is the most likely culprit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the absolute first thing I should do before attempting any garbage disposal repair?
Always cut power to the disposal at your home's circuit breaker first. This crucial step prevents accidental activation of the unit and eliminates the risk of electric shock while you are working near the blades and electrical components. Confirm the power is off by trying to turn on the disposal switch.
Do I need specialized tools like the NITECORE flashlight or the ACDelco torque wrench for this project?
While a bright flashlight (like the NITECORE) is extremely helpful for visibility inside the disposal, any reliable flashlight will suffice. The most critical tools are strong pliers or tongs for removing obstructions, and an Allen wrench (often provided with the disposal) for resetting the motor and rotating the impeller. The adjustable wrench and torque wrench listed are not typically required for these specific troubleshooting steps.
I pressed the red reset button, but my disposal still isn't working. What should I try next?
If the reset button doesn't immediately solve the problem, first double-check your home's circuit breaker to ensure power is indeed reaching the unit. Next, locate the hexagonal reset hole on the bottom of the disposal, insert the appropriate Allen wrench, and manually rotate it back and forth several times to free any internal jams. Then, try pressing the reset button again.
My garbage disposal hums when I turn it on but doesn't spin. What does this mean?
A humming sound typically indicates that the motor is receiving power, but the grinding impellers are seized, most often by a lodged object. Immediately turn off the power at the circuit breaker. Then, use the Allen wrench in the bottom reset hole to manually rotate the motor shaft until the impellers move freely, before restoring power.
How difficult is this repair for a beginner, and how long should it realistically take?
This troubleshooting project is very beginner-friendly, focusing on basic checks that don't require advanced skills or plumbing knowledge. Most common issues like tripped resets or minor obstructions can be resolved within 30 minutes to an hour. If the motor is seized and requires manual turning, it might take a bit longer, but it's still manageable for DIY novices.
When should I stop trying to fix it myself and call a plumber?
If you've followed all troubleshooting steps—cleared obstructions, successfully reset the button, rotated the impeller manually with an Allen wrench—and the disposal still doesn't work, or if you observe any persistent leaks, strange odors, or electrical issues after your attempts, it's best to stop and contact a professional plumber. Continuing to troubleshoot beyond these steps might cause further damage.
