A garbage disposal is a convenient kitchen appliance, but when it starts humming instead of grinding, it can be frustrating. That low buzzing sound usually signals that something is wrong, and ignoring it can lead to a complete breakdown. The good news is that many humming disposal issues are easy to fix with a few troubleshooting steps. In this guide, we’ll explore the common reasons why your garbage disposal is making noise and what you can do to get it running smoothly again.
Common Reasons Your Garbage Disposal Is Humming
If your garbage disposal is humming but not grinding, it typically means the motor is running but the blades aren’t spinning. Here are some of the most common causes:
1. A Jammed Disposal
One of the most frequent reasons for a humming sound is a jammed disposal. This happens when food particles, bones, utensils, or other objects block the blades from spinning. The motor is trying to work, but the obstruction prevents movement, resulting in the humming noise. If left unaddressed, this can burn out the motor.
2. Overheated Motor
Garbage disposals have a built-in safety feature that shuts off the unit when the motor overheats. This can happen if you’ve been running it for too long, overloading it with food waste, or if it’s jammed. When the motor overheats, it may hum but won’t function properly until it cools down.
3. Faulty Capacitor or Motor
If your garbage disposal hums but doesn’t grind and isn’t jammed, the issue may lie in the internal electrical components. The start capacitor helps the motor start spinning. If it’s faulty, the disposal won’t be able to operate properly. In some cases, an aging motor may also be the culprit, meaning the unit may need replacement.
4. Loose or Worn-Out Blades
Although the disposal’s blades don’t have sharp edges like knives, they can still wear out over time. If they become loose or dull, they might not be able to break down food waste effectively. A malfunctioning blade assembly could cause the motor to struggle, creating the humming sound.
5. Power Supply Issues
Sometimes, the problem isn’t with the disposal itself but with the power supply. A loose plug, a tripped breaker, or a damaged power cord can prevent the unit from running properly. Before assuming the worst, check the electrical connections to make sure everything is secure.
If you’ve checked everything and your disposal is still humming, you must call in a professional. A qualified handyman in New Orleans can safely inspect the unit, identify the issue, and either repair or recommend a replacement to get your kitchen back in working order.
How to Fix a Humming Garbage Disposal
Now that you understand why your garbage disposal is humming, let’s go over some potential solutions.
1. Turn Off the Power Before Troubleshooting
Safety first! Always turn off the power to your garbage disposal before attempting any repairs. Unplug the unit or switch off the breaker to avoid electrical shocks.
2. Use the Reset Button
Many garbage disposals have a reset button located on the bottom. If the motor overheats, pressing this button can restart the unit. Wait a few minutes for the disposal to cool down before trying this step.
3. Clear a Jammed Disposal
To clear a jam, insert an Allen wrench into the hex-shaped hole underneath the disposal and turn it back and forth. This will manually rotate the blades and dislodge any obstructions. If you don’t have an Allen wrench, you can use a wooden spoon handle to move the blades gently from above—never use your fingers.
4. Check the Power Supply
If the reset button doesn’t work, check to see if the disposal is plugged in properly. If it’s still not working, check your circuit breaker panel to ensure the breaker hasn’t tripped.
5. Call a Professional If Needed
If you’ve tried everything and your garbage disposal is still humming, it may be time to call a professional. A broken capacitor, worn-out motor, or other electrical issue requires expertise to fix. A handyman in New Orleans can assess the problem and determine if repair or replacement is the best option.
Preventing Future Garbage Disposal Problems
To keep your garbage disposal in good working condition, follow these simple maintenance tips:
- Run cold water while using the disposal to help flush out food waste.
- Avoid putting hard or fibrous foods (like bones, corn husks, or coffee grounds) down the drain.
- Clean the disposal regularly by grinding ice cubes and citrus peels.
- Never overload the unit—feed waste gradually rather than all at once.
Need Help? Call a Handyman in New Orleans!
If your garbage disposal is still humming after trying these fixes, it may require professional attention. Don’t let a small issue turn into a costly repair—contact One Man & A Tool Box, your trusted handyman in New Orleans, for expert assistance. We can diagnose the problem and get your kitchen back in working order quickly. Call us today to schedule an appointment!
