Repair Disposal

We get many calls from customers telling us their garbage disposal won't turn on but makes a humming sound when you flip the switch. If you keep trying to turn it on, it won't do that for long because it will probably trip the breaker on the bottom of the disposal.

If you have this problem, it usually means you have a stuck flywheel and the reset button on the unit itself or the fuse or circuit breaker in your electrical service panel will trip and turn off very quickly. The flywheel is stuck because something is lodged between it or the impeller(s) and the shredder ring.

To repair this issue follow these easy steps:

1. Turn off power to the garbage disposal at the electrical switch or service panel.2. Reminder: Don't ever put your hand down into the garbage disposal hopper (grinding chamber) with the power attached.
3. Take the offset wrench that came with the disposal unit and insert the wrench into the flywheel turning hole in the bottom of the unit. If you don't have the wrench you can pick one up from the hardware store that sells your garbage disposal.
4. Once the wrench is inserted, turn it clockwise to dislodge the stuck impeller or flywheel. When it dislodges, you'll feel the flywheel turn freely.
5. Another approach is to try and use a wooden broom-handle or similar wooden object to free the stuck impeller and flywheel from the top of the unit through the drain.
6. Place the broom-handle into the hopper and against an impeller. Use leverage to try and free the stuck flywheel. As before, when it dislodges you'll feel the flywheel turn freely.
7. Once freed, turn the power back on at the panel but don't turn on the disposal yet.
8. Go back to the disposal and press the reset button.
9. Run some tap water into the disposal and quickly flip the switch on and off turning the disposal on for a short burst. Turn on and off again quickly. That should spin the flywheel and the dislodged obstruction should be washed down the drain.
10. If for some reason the obstruction is being caused by a metal screw or nail you will need to turn the power off again and use a flashlight to locate the item. Once located use a magnet or screw grabber to retrieve the item. Once removed turn the power back on and follow the instructions in number 9 above.

You can also watch this YouTube Video

If you are unable to free the obstruction call a professional to assist you.

If you have any questions please email us at sales@onecallhomehandyman.com or go to our site at http://www.onecallhomehandyman.com/