What Causes the Humming Sound in My Garbage Disposal?

A garbage disposal is a convenient and essential appliance in any kitchen. It helps to quickly and efficiently dispose of food waste, making clean-up a breeze. However, if you turn on your garbage disposal and hear a loud humming noise, it can be quite concerning.

Read on to see how JK Plumbing explores the reasons why your garbage disposal may be humming and how to troubleshoot the issue.

What Causes a Garbage Disposal to Hum?

A humming noise coming from your garbage disposal can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the most common reasons include:

• Jammed impellers
• Clogged drain
• Faulty motor
• Worn out bearings
• Loose or damaged blades
• Electrical issues

Jammed Impellers

The impellers are the blades inside the garbage disposal that grind up food waste. If something hard or fibrous, such as a bone or a piece of stringy vegetable, gets stuck in the impellers, it can cause them to jam. This can result in a humming noise when the disposal is turned on.

Clogged Drain

A clogged drain can also cause a garbage disposal to hum. If the drain is clogged, the disposal will not be able to properly dispose of the food waste, causing it to back up and create a humming noise.

Faulty Motor

A faulty motor can also be the culprit behind a humming garbage disposal. If the motor is not functioning properly, it may not have enough power to turn the impellers, resulting in a humming noise.

Worn Out Bearings

The bearings in a garbage disposal help to support the motor and keep it running smoothly. Over time, these bearings can wear out, causing the motor to become misaligned and produce a humming noise.

Loose or Damaged Blades

If the blades in your garbage disposal drain cleaning is loose or damaged, they may not be able to properly grind up food waste, resulting in a humming noise. This can be caused by putting hard or non-food items down the disposal, such as silverware or glass.

Electrical Issues

In some cases, a humming garbage disposal may be caused by electrical issues. This can include a faulty switch, wiring problems, or a tripped circuit breaker.

How to Troubleshoot a Humming Garbage Disposal

If your garbage disposal is humming, there are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue before calling a professional.

Step 1: Turn Off the Power

Before attempting to troubleshoot your garbage disposal, it is important to turn off the power to the unit. This can be done by unplugging the disposal from the outlet or turning off the circuit breaker that supplies power to the disposal.

Step 2: Check for Jammed Impellers

If you suspect that the impellers are jammed, you can use a hex key or an Allen wrench to manually turn the blades and dislodge any obstructions. Insert the key into the hole at the bottom of the disposal and turn it back and forth until the blades are able to move freely.

Step 3: Clear the Drain

If the impellers are not jammed, the next step is to check for a clogged drain. You can use a plunger or a drain snake to clear any blockages in the drain. Once the drain is clear, turn the power back on and test the disposal to see if the humming noise has stopped.

Step 4: Reset the Disposal

If the disposal is still humming, try resetting it. Locate the reset button on the bottom of the unit and press it. This will reset the disposal and may resolve the issue.

Step 5: Inspect the Blades

If the blades are loose or damaged, they may need to be replaced. You can inspect the blades by using a flashlight to look inside the disposal. If you notice any damage or looseness, it is best to call a professional to replace the blades.

Step 6: Check the Motor

If none of the above steps have resolved the issue, the problem may be with the motor. In this case, it is best to call a professional to inspect and repair the motor.

Step 7: Call a Professional

If you are unable to troubleshoot the issue on your own, it is best to call a professional plumber or appliance repair technician. They will have the knowledge and tools to properly diagnose and fix the problem.

How to Prevent a Humming Garbage Disposal Service

The best way to prevent a humming garbage disposal is to properly maintain and use the unit. Here are a few tips to keep your disposal running smoothly:

• Avoid putting hard or non-food items down the disposal
• Run cold water while using the disposal to help flush food waste through the drain
• Regularly clean the disposal by grinding ice cubes and citrus peels
• Use a plunger or drain snake to clear any clogs in the drain
• Have the disposal professionally inspected and maintained every year

Call JK Plumbing if Your Garbage Disposal Makes Humming Noises in the SF Bay Area

A humming garbage disposal can be a frustrating and concerning issue. However, by understanding the common causes and following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this article, you can resolve the issue and keep your disposal running smoothly. Remember to always prioritize safety and call a professional if you are unsure or unable to fix the problem on your own. With proper maintenance and care, your garbage disposal can continue to be a convenient and efficient appliance in your kitchen.

FAQs about Garbage Disposal Repair and Replacement

• What should I do if my garbage disposal starts making strange noises?
• Can I repair my garbage disposal myself, or should I call a professional?
• How often should I replace my garbage disposal?
• Are there any items I should avoid putting down my garbage disposal?
• How can I clean my garbage disposal safely and effectively?
• Does JK Plumbing offer warranties for their garbage disposal services?