Symptoms and what they usually mean
| Symptom | Likely cause | First step |
|---|---|---|
| Hums but does not spin | Jammed flywheel | Power off, then free it with the hex key in the bottom of the unit |
| Does nothing at all | Tripped reset button or breaker | Press the red reset button on the bottom; check the breaker |
| Drains slowly | Clog in the disposal or the drain line beyond it | Clear the chamber, then check the trap |
| Leaks from the top | Failed sink flange seal | Reseat the flange with new putty or gasket |
| Leaks from the side | Loose dishwasher or drain connection | Tighten clamp or replace the gasket |
| Leaks from the bottom | Internal seal failure, often from corrosion | Usually means replacing the unit |
Freeing a jammed disposal
Cut power
Turn off the wall switch and unplug the unit or switch off its breaker.
Look inside
Use a flashlight and remove anything visible with tongs.
Turn the flywheel
Insert the hex key into the socket in the bottom center of the unit and work it back and forth until it turns freely.
Reset
Press the reset button, restore power and run cold water before switching it on.
Keep these out of the disposal
- Grease, oil and fat, which coat the drain line beyond the unit.
- Fibrous scraps such as celery, corn husks and onion skins.
- Coffee grounds and eggshells, which form sludge.
- Pasta, rice and other starches that swell.
- Bones, fruit pits and anything that is not food.
Repair or replace
- IfIt jams occasionally but runs well once clearedThenKeep using it and change what goes down the drain.
- IfIt leaks from the body of the unitThenReplacement is usually the practical answer.
- IfIt trips the reset button repeatedlyThenThe motor may be failing; ask whether replacement makes more sense.
- IfThe drain keeps clogging past the disposalThenThe kitchen drain line may need cleaning; see the drain guide.
What a replacement involves
Replacing a disposal means disconnecting the drain and dishwasher connections, removing the old unit from its mounting ring, installing the new mount and reconnecting everything. Some units are hardwired and some plug in, which affects whether electrical work is involved.
Unit size and motor power, whether the mounting hardware matches, and the condition of the sink drain and trap all affect the job. Ask whether removal of the old unit is included.
Common questions
Is it safe to use chemical drain cleaner in a disposal?
It is not recommended. Caustic chemicals can damage the unit's seals and are dangerous if the drain later needs to be opened.
Why does my disposal smell?
Food residue builds up under the splash guard and in the chamber. Running it with cold water and cleaning the rubber splash guard usually helps.
Hot or cold water when running it?
Cold water is generally recommended, since it keeps fats solid so they can be chopped and carried away.
General information for La Palma, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.