Signs That a Garbage Disposal Needs Repair
In the heart of many kitchens, an unsung hero resides, grinding down food waste and carrying it away from the home. Yet, being a garbage disposal isn’t easy. Over time, repairs may be inevitable. But when are such repairs necessary? This blog will discuss common signs that a garbage disposal needs repair. Homeowners should consult a plumber about their garbage disposal if they notice the following:
Strange Noises When in Use
The garbage disposal will make a grinding noise while in use. It’s grating and unpleasant, but it's business as usual for many household disposals. Yet, if one hears any of the following sounds from their garbage disposal, they should consult a professional:
- Humming: If the garbage disposal hums when turned on but doesn’t seem to be running, something could be blocking the impellers. For instance, the string from around a rotisserie chicken could get caught in the motor.
- Rattling: A homeowner might hear the sound of rattling and metal if a utensil has fallen into the garbage disposal. It could also mean that the impellers or another component are loose and need tightening.
- No sound at all: If it makes no sound when turned on, this could point to an issue with the garbage disposal’s power supply. Most garbage disposals have a reset button that may be able to fix this issue.
It’s always in a homeowner’s best interest to consult a professional when there’s an issue with the garbage disposal. Attempting to fix the problem on their own could make the problem worse—and possibly result in injuries.
The Appliance Stops Working Efficiently
Additionally, if the garbage disposal isn’t working well, it likely needs repair. Some signs that garbage disposals need repair include:
- Frequent clogs: Garbage disposals mince waste so it easily travels through the plumbing system. Clogs would mean that the impellers or the device’s motor isn’t working properly.
- The garbage disposal shakes or vibrates while in use: This could mean that the garbage disposal wasn’t mounted properly. Continued use could cause the appliance to come loose and come out of place.
- Leaks: Frequent leaks could point to an issue with damaged seals, cracks, or loose connectors. They could also indicate other problems within the plumbing system, such as corrosion.
A garbage disposal also might not work properly if the impeller blades are dull. That’s why some sources recommend that homeowners periodically put ice cubes down the garbage disposal and turn it on to help sharpen the blades. However, this is a myth. Ice cubes don’t sharpen the blades, but they can help remove food that has gotten stuck.
Bad Smells From the Drain
Garbage disposals are convenient household appliances, but if they are not functioning properly, they can also cause bad smells. Garbage that is improperly ground up and left to sit in the disposal can start to rot and emit an unpleasant smell. Food scraps such as onion skins, potato peels, or cooked egg shells can get stuck in the grinding chamber and create a rancid odor. Grease can also accumulate in the disposal and create a foul smell.
These pesky foods can also create clogs in the pipes in addition to the garbage disposal components. If homeowners notice bad smells coming from their drain and garbage disposal, it is important to have it inspected by a professional to see if there is an issue with the garbage disposal or a clog, which can cause slow draining in addition to the foul smells.
About Green Hills Plumbing
Green Hills Plumbing is a locally owned and operated company serving Nashville and the surrounding communities. They provide 24/7 emergency service, upfront pricing, and won’t leave a mess behind. Call them today for garbage disposal repair or installation in Nashville, TN.
