A functional garbage disposal is essential for kitchen convenience. When issues arise, they can disrupt your daily routine and create an unwelcome mess, leaving you asking yourself, “Why is my garbage disposal not working?” Below, we detail how to troubleshoot common garbage disposal problems in Greenville, and explain when to call in the professionals.

What To Look At

Check Power Connections

First and foremost, ensure that your garbage disposal is correctly powered. Confirm that the unit is plugged into a working outlet and check your home’s circuit breaker or fuse box to ensure no fuses have been tripped. Many disposals also feature a reset button located on the bottom or side of the unit; pressing this can often reactivate the system if it has shut down.

Addressing Jams

Jams are one of the most frequent causes of garbage disposal malfunctions. Hard shells, fibrous vegetables, or large bones can block the blades, preventing the disposal from operating correctly. Before attempting to clear a jam, always ensure the power is turned off to avoid any accidents. Use a flashlight to look inside the disposal for any visible obstructions. If you find any, carefully remove them with pliers or a similar tool—never use your hands.

Overheating and Resets

If your disposal stops working, it may have overheated and automatically shut off to prevent further damage. In this case, allow the unit to cool down for a few minutes. Afterwards, locate and press the reset button. If the disposal does not resume operation after this step, the issue may be more severe, requiring professional attention.

Leak Detection

Leaks around your garbage disposal can indicate serious problems. Inspect the area for any signs of moisture, which could suggest a failing seal or even a crack in the disposal’s housing. Persistent leaks are problematic as they can lead to water damage and mold growth, both of which are hazardous to your home’s structure and your health.

Preventative Maintenance

To avoid frequent issues with your garbage disposal:

  • Run cold water while it operates: This helps solidify any grease or oil, which can then be ground up before reaching the trap.
  • Avoid non-food items: Ensure only appropriate food waste is put down the disposal to prevent jams.
  • Regular cleaning: Occasionally grind up pieces of lemon peel and ice cubes, which can clean the blades and remove any lingering odors.

When to Call Preferred Home Services

If you’ve followed these troubleshooting steps and your garbage disposal still isn’t working, it’s time to consider professional help. Tinkering with a disposal can be risky due to the combination of electricity and water, along with the unit’s complex mechanical components.

Preferred Home Services in Greenville provides expert garbage disposal repair services. Our trained technicians can quickly diagnose and resolve any issues, ensuring your kitchen remains a convenient and efficient space.

Don’t Let a Faulty Garbage Disposal Disrupt Your Daily Routine!

Don’t struggle with a dysfunctional garbage disposal. Contact Preferred Home Services for prompt and effective repair services in Greenville. Our plumbers are dedicated to ensuring that your disposal runs smoothly, maintaining both safety and functionality in your kitchen.

Schedule your service visit today and let us take the hassle out of kitchen maintenance!