Garbage Disposal Repair and Installation

Common Causes of a Malfunctioning Garbage Disposal

A malfunctioning garbage disposal can be caused by various factors.  For example, some of the most common ones include:

1. Jamming: Foreign objects like utensils, food debris, or non-food items can become lodged in the disposal’s grinding chamber.  Therefore, preventing the blades from turning.

2. Overloading: Trying to dispose of too much food waste at once can overload the motor.  In addition, cause the disposal to shut down or trip a circuit breaker.

3. Electrical Issues: Faulty wiring, a blown fuse, or a tripped circuit breaker can disrupt the electrical supply to the garbage disposal.  Therefore, rendering it inoperable.

4. Worn or Dull Blades: Over time, the blades in the disposal can become worn or dulled, reducing their ability to effectively grind food waste.

5. Leakage: A leaking garbage disposal can result from damaged seals, loose connections, or cracks in the disposal unit itself.

6. Clogs in Drain Pipes: A malfunctioning disposal can sometimes be a symptom of a larger issue.  For instance, clogs or blockages in the drain pipes connected to the disposal.

7. Improper Use: Putting items like grease, bones, fibrous materials (like celery or corn husks), or large quantities of starchy foods (like pasta or rice) down the disposal can lead to clogs and damage.

8. Aged Unit: Like all appliances, garbage disposals have a finite lifespan. If the unit is very old, it may simply be time for a replacement.

9. Lack of Maintenance: Neglecting regular maintenance, such as cleaning and sharpening the blades or checking for leaks, can lead to issues over time.