A noisy garbage disposal means something is stuck inside, and it can’t grind up the food scraps like it should. It’s like when you’re trying to chew something hard, and your teeth can’t break it down.
If you clearly hear your garbage disposal humming, it needs help getting unstuck. Don’t try to make it work, and turn the switch off to avoid breakage. Call a plumber for Kitchen Plumbing Repairs.
Reasons Behind a Noisy Garbage Disposal
A garbage disposal doesn’t have blades like knives, but it can still get jammed if you put things in it that are not meant to grind up, like silverware or toys. When you turn it on, the motor tries to make the blades move, but they can’t because something’s stuck. So, instead of grinding, it just makes a loud humming noise.
Garbage Disposal Humming but Not Spinning – Why?
If your garbage disposal won’t grind but makes a humming noise when you switch it on, it could mean the spinning part inside is stuck or the motor isn’t working right. It’s important to switch it off fast to avoid making things worse. The following methods can serve as your short guide on “How to unjam a garbage disposal.”
- Use the garbage disposal wrench that came with the disposal to turn the bottom part where it’s stuck. Turn it to the right until it moves freely.
- Or, try using the handle of a wooden spoon to push on the stuck part from the top.
- If you can see something blocking it, like a bone, use tongs or pliers to remove it.
- After you fix it, turn the power back on from the breaker and press the reset button at the bottom before using it again.
How can you prevent your garbage disposal from Humming?
A noisy garbage disposal is not uncommon. However, it can sometimes result in a disaster. Following are general tips to prevent it from getting stuck:
- Use Small Chicken Bones Occasionally: Putting small chicken bones through the disposal can help clean them by scraping off any buildup on the sides.
- Run Cold Water: When using the disposal, always run cold water down the drain. Cold water works best with disposals and helps turn grease and fat into solid form, making it easier to flush through the system.
- Monthly Ice Cube Clean: Once a month, clean your disposal by filling it with ice cubes and running cold water. This helps remove any grease or gunk stuck on the walls.
- Don’t Overstuff: Avoid stuffing too much food into the disposal at once, as it can cause jams. Instead, fill it loosely.
- Use the Disposal Immediately: After putting food in the disposal, turn it on immediately. Letting food in it can lead to corrosion.
- Keep Non-Food Items Away: Don’t accidentally drop things like silverware or jewelry into the disposal, as they can damage it.
Wrapping Up
A garbage disposal is a huge convenience for every household. When you hear your garbage disposal humming, it is best to switch it off to prevent any damage. The next thing you should do is call a professional.
Contact your skilled neighbors, Riley Owens and his team at Arid Valley Plumbing, for any assistance. Whether your issue is urgent or non-urgent, our team is 24/7 available. Dial (602) 999-4741 to book a service.