Imagine the frustration of standing in your kitchen, ready to tackle the daily pile of dishes, only to find that your beloved garbage disposal is just humming away without doing its job. We’ve all been there, wondering how to solve the mystery of a non-functioning disposal. Luckily, there are a few simple steps you can take to troubleshoot and fix this common issue. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of diagnosing and fixing a garbage disposal that just hums, so you can get back to enjoying a smoothly running kitchen in no time.
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Inspecting the Power Source
Check the Power Cord
The first step in troubleshooting a garbage disposal that is just humming is to inspect the power cord. Ensure that the power cord is securely plugged into a functional electrical outlet. Sometimes, due to accidental bumps or movements, the cord may become loose, leading to an interruption in power supply. By checking the power cord and ensuring it is properly connected, you can eliminate a simple yet common cause of a humming garbage disposal.
Reset the Circuit Breaker
If the power cord is securely plugged in and the garbage disposal is still just humming, the next step is to check the circuit breaker. Often, a tripped circuit breaker can cause a garbage disposal to stop working or emit a humming sound without functioning. Locate your home’s circuit breaker panel and see if the switch corresponding to the garbage disposal is in the “off” position. If so, reset the circuit breaker by flipping the switch back to the “on” position. This may solve the issue and get your garbage disposal up and running again.
Replace the Fuse
In some cases, a blown fuse can be the culprit behind a garbage disposal that only hums. To rule out this possibility, locate and check the fuse dedicated to the disposal unit. If the fuse is blown, you will need to replace it with a new one of the same amperage. It is important to note that if you consistently experience blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers with your disposal, it may be an indication of an underlying electrical issue requiring professional attention.
Clearing Blockages
Turn Off the Power
Before attempting to clear any blockages in your garbage disposal, it is crucial to turn off the power. This step ensures your safety and prevents any accidental injury. Locate the switch or unplugging the disposal unit from the power source altogether. This precaution prevents the disposal from accidentally turning on while you are working on it.
Use Allen Wrench
An Allen wrench, also known as a hex key, is a valuable tool for fixing a humming garbage disposal. Underneath the disposal unit, you will find a small hole. Insert the Allen wrench into the hole and rotate it back and forth. This motion will help manually rotate the impellers and may dislodge any jammed objects causing the humming sound. By using the Allen wrench correctly, you can often resolve minor blockages within the disposal unit.
Check for Jammed Objects
In addition to using the Allen wrench, it is crucial to visually inspect the disposal unit for any jammed objects. Small items like utensils, bottle caps, or even food residue can get wedged in the impellers, preventing them from rotating freely. Carefully check the inside of the disposal using a flashlight, and if you spot any foreign objects, use tongs or pliers to remove them. Removing these blockages should eliminate the humming sound and allow your garbage disposal to function properly once again.
Remove Clogs with Pliers
If the Allen wrench and visual inspection don’t resolve the issue, there may be a clog deeper within the disposal. In such cases, it is necessary to use pliers to remove the clog manually. Make sure the power is still turned off, and then use pliers to reach into the disposal unit and extract any stuck debris. Exercise caution when working with pliers inside the disposal, as it can be a tight and potentially sharp environment. Once the clog is cleared, restore power to the disposal and test to see if the humming has ceased.
Resetting or Replacing the Motor
Reset the Motor
If you have gone through the previous steps and the garbage disposal is still humming, it may be necessary to reset the motor. Overloading and overheating can cause the motor to shut down and emit a humming sound. To reset the motor, locate the reset button on the bottom or side of the disposal unit. Press the button firmly, and it should click into place, indicating that the motor has been reset. After resetting the motor, turn on the power and test the disposal to see if the humming persists.
Replace the Motor
If resetting the motor does not resolve the issue, it may be an indication of a more significant problem. In some cases, the motor itself may be faulty or worn out, requiring replacement. If you suspect a motor failure, it is best to consult a professional plumber or an appliance repair service to assess the situation and install a new motor if necessary. Attempting to replace a motor without proper knowledge and expertise can lead to further damage or injury.
Testing the Start Switch
Check for Power
Before testing the start switch, ensure that there is power supply to the garbage disposal. Confirm that the circuit breaker and the power cord are both functioning correctly. Without a reliable power source, the start switch will not work properly, and the disposal will continue to hum. If there is no power, follow the steps outlined earlier to check the power cord and reset the circuit breaker.
Remove the Start Switch Cover
To access and test the start switch, you will need to remove the start switch cover. This cover is usually located on the side of the disposal unit and can be easily removed by unscrewing the screws or clips holding it in place. Carefully remove the cover, taking note of how it is attached, as you will need to put it back correctly after troubleshooting.
Test the Start Switch
Once the start switch is exposed, you can proceed with testing it. Using a multimeter set to the continuity or ohms function, touch the probes to the switch’s terminals. If there is continuity when the switch is pressed or turned, it means the start switch is functioning correctly. However, if there is no continuity, the switch is likely the cause of the humming issue. In such cases, the start switch should be replaced with a new one.
Replace the Start Switch
If the testing reveals a faulty start switch, you will need to replace it. To do so, first, ensure that the power is turned off. Disconnect the wires connected to the start switch and carefully remove the switch itself. Replace it with a new start switch of the same type and model, following the manufacturer’s instructions. After installing the new start switch, reattach the wires and screw the start switch cover back into place. Turn on the power and test the garbage disposal to verify that the humming has ceased.
Checking the Impellers
Inspect the Impellers
The impellers inside the garbage disposal are responsible for grinding and breaking down food waste. Regular wear and tear or foreign objects can hinder their performance and cause a humming sound. To inspect the impellers, remove the drain plug and use a flashlight to look inside the disposal. Evaluate their condition by ensuring they rotate freely without obstruction. If they appear damaged, bent, or corroded, you may need to replace them to eliminate the humming noise.
Remove Debris from the Impellers
If the impellers appear to be in good condition but there is still a humming sound, it is possible that debris is stuck between the impellers. To remove any debris, you can use long-handled tweezers or needle-nose pliers to gently pull out any foreign objects. Make sure to turn off the power and exercise caution to avoid injury. Removing debris from the impellers should allow them to function properly and eliminate the humming noise.
Replace Damaged Impellers
In some instances, the impellers may be damaged beyond repair, rendering them ineffective in breaking down food waste. If this is the case, you will need to replace the impellers. Replacement impellers can be obtained from the manufacturer or a reputable plumbing supply store. Make sure to consult the disposal’s user manual or seek professional assistance to ensure the proper installation of the new impellers.
Examining the Flywheel
Access the Flywheel
The flywheel is a rotating component within the disposal that works in conjunction with the impellers to grind food waste. To examine the flywheel, you will need to access it by removing the drain plug and shining a flashlight inside the disposal. Once the flywheel is visible, take note of any obstructions or damage that may be causing the humming sound.
Rotate the Flywheel
After accessing the flywheel, try rotating it by hand. In some cases, the flywheel may become stuck due to debris or lack of lubrication. Use a pair of pliers or a wooden spoon to gently rotate the flywheel in both directions. This manual rotation can dislodge any blockages or free up stuck components, helping to resolve the humming issue.
Clear Obstructions from the Flywheel
If rotating the flywheel does not eliminate the humming sound, there may be obstructions that need to be cleared. Turn off the power and use long-handled tweezers or pliers to carefully remove any debris or objects obstructing the flywheel’s movement. Take care not to damage the flywheel or other internal components during this process. Once all obstructions are removed, restore power to the disposal and test it to see if the humming noise has disappeared.
Inspecting the Motor Bearings
Check for Motor Bearing Issues
A humming garbage disposal can also be an indication of motor bearing problems. Over time, the motor bearings may become worn out or damaged, causing the disposal to emit a humming sound. To check for motor bearing issues, turn off the power and manually rotate the motor shaft. If you feel any excessive resistance, grinding, or roughness while rotating, it may be a sign that the motor bearings need lubrication or replacement.
Lubricate the Bearings
If the motor bearings are experiencing issues, lubrication may help alleviate the humming sound. Consult the disposal’s user manual or manufacturer’s instructions for the appropriate lubricant to use. Typically, lightweight oil or silicone-based lubricants are recommended for motor bearings. Apply the lubricant according to the instructions provided, taking care not to overapply or use incompatible lubricants. Once the bearings are lubricated, restore power to the disposal and test it to see if the humming persists.
Replace the Bearings
If lubricating the motor bearings does not resolve the issue, it may be necessary to replace the bearings. This task often requires technical expertise, and it is recommended to seek the assistance of a professional plumber or an appliance repair service. They will have the knowledge and experience to safely replace the motor bearings, ensuring that your garbage disposal functions properly without the humming sound.
Examining the Capacitor
Locate the Capacitor
The capacitor is an electrical component within the garbage disposal that assists in starting the motor. If the capacitor becomes faulty, it can cause the disposal to hum without functioning correctly. To examine the capacitor, locate it within the disposal unit. It is typically cylindrical in shape and may be attached to the motor or positioned nearby.
Check for Faulty Capacitor
To determine if the capacitor is causing the humming issue, you can perform a visual inspection. Look for any signs of physical damage such as bulging, leaking, or discoloration. These are indications that the capacitor has failed and should be replaced. If the capacitor appears to be in good condition, it may be necessary to test it using a multimeter to check for proper functionality.
Replace the Capacitor
If the capacitor is found to be faulty during the inspection or testing, it is essential to replace it. Capacitors store electrical energy, and mishandling them can result in electric shock. Therefore, it is recommended to contact a professional plumber or an appliance repair service to replace the capacitor safely. They will have the necessary knowledge and tools to ensure a successful replacement and eliminate the humming noise.
Testing the Overload Protector
Identify the Overload Protector
The overload protector is a safety feature within the garbage disposal that protects the motor from overheating or damage due to excessive loads. If the overload protector detects an overload, it may cause the disposal to emit a humming sound. To test the overload protector, locate it within the disposal unit. It is typically a small button or switch located on the side or bottom of the disposal.
Test the Overload Protector
To test the overload protector, turn off the power and press the reset button firmly. If the overload protector was tripped, it should click back into place, indicating that the issue has been resolved. Once the reset button is pressed, restore power to the disposal and test it to see if the humming noise persists. If the overload protector continues to trip or the humming sound persists, it may be necessary to replace the overload protector or consult a professional for further assistance.
Replace the Overload Protector
If the overload protector repeatedly trips or fails to reset, it may be a sign of a faulty protector that needs replacement. Due to the electrical nature of this component, it is recommended to contact a professional plumber or an appliance repair service to replace the overload protector safely. They will have the necessary expertise and tools to ensure proper installation, eliminating the humming sound and allowing the disposal to function as intended.
Seeking Professional Help
Contact a Plumbing or Repair Service
If you have gone through the previous troubleshooting steps and the humming issue persists, it is best to seek professional help. Contact a reputable plumbing or appliance repair service to schedule an appointment for further diagnosis and potential repairs. Professional technicians will have the knowledge and experience necessary to assess the problem accurately and recommend the appropriate course of action to fix your garbage disposal.
Consult with a Garbage Disposal Expert
Alternatively, you can consult with a garbage disposal expert for guidance and advice. They can provide insights and recommendations based on their expertise, allowing you to make informed decisions about repair options. This consultation may also help you determine if it is more cost-effective to repair or replace the garbage disposal. Be sure to reach out to a trusted expert who specializes in garbage disposals to ensure accurate information and professional assistance.