From overheating to electrical issues, there are several reasons why your garbage disposal may stop working properly. Some problems can be fixed fairly quickly and easily, while others are more complex and require an expert specializing in garbage disposal repair in Las Vegas. If your garbage disposal is acting up, consider these possible causes and solutions.

Overheating

As with many mechanical components, the garbage disposal may not work if it overheats. One way to identify an overheating garbage disposal is by flipping the switch. If the disposal doesn’t make any noise, it may be too hot. If you suspect this is the case, try hitting the reset button under the unit. You can also check the circuit box to see if a breaker has tripped. Fortunately, this problem is a relatively easy fix that you can handle on your own.

Jamming

If the garbage disposal makes a humming sound when you turn it on but doesn’t actually grind food particles, it may be jammed, which means that the impellers are stuck. Because the impellers can harm your fingers, never stick your hand into the grinding chamber when the power is on. To fix a jam, always turn off the circuit breakers to the disposal first. Then you can safely remove the bottom housing to dislodge the blockage underneath. You may be able to fix a jam on your own, but you should call a professional if you’re unsure how to make the repairs yourself.

Electrical Problems

If the garbage disposal doesn’t start when you flip the switch, a likely cause is a lack of electricity reaching the unit. To troubleshoot electrical issues, start by making sure that the appliance is plugged in. Next, check the reset button. If it is popped outward, press it back down to reset and restart the garbage disposal. If you’ve checked these possible causes but still can’t get the garbage disposal to start, there may be a wiring problem in the switch that controls the garbage disposal, or the disposal itself may be faulty.

Leaks

Leaks can also cause your garbage disposal to malfunction. Leaks can arise from several areas on your garbage disposal. Some of the most common locations are the sink flange, the hose leading from the dishwasher to the garbage disposal, and the hose that transports waste from the disposal to the drain system. Before checking for a leak, shut off power to the garbage disposal by turning off the main circuit breaker. Then, check the sink flange and hoses for loose connections and worn components. The hoses may need to be replaced, along with components like the gasket seal, to stop leaks.

If your garbage disposal isn’t working, contact Service Plus Plumbing for repairs. We offer expert diagnostics, premium repairs, and garbage disposal installation in Las Vegas to fix your plumbing problems.