Always disconnect power at the switch and, ideally, the breaker before reaching near a disposal. Never put a hand inside one.
What this service solves
- Jams
- Humming without spinning
- Leaks
- Units that will not turn on
- Slow draining and odors
Common symptoms
- Humming but not grinding
- No sound at all
- Water dripping below the unit
- Sink drains slowly with disposal running
- Persistent smell
Most likely causes
Jam
Hard objects, fruit pits or fibrous food lodge between the flywheel and grind ring.
Tripped overload
The motor's thermal protector trips after a jam or overheating.
Seal failure
Leaks from the body usually indicate internal seal failure.
Connection leaks
Leaks at the sink flange, dishwasher inlet or discharge tube are repairable.
How the problem is diagnosed
- Check reset button and power
- Free the flywheel with the hex key from below
- Locate the leak: flange, dishwasher hose, discharge tube or body
Repair and replacement options
| Option | Best for | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Unjam and reset | Humming units | Use the hex wrench socket on the bottom with power off. |
| Reseal connections | Flange or tube leaks | Plumber's putty or gaskets at the flange; new gasket at the discharge. |
| Replacement | Body leaks or burned-out motors | Usually more practical than internal repair. |
What a plumber normally does
- Disconnect power
- Diagnose
- Repair or replace
- Test with water running
Emergency warning signs
- Burning smell or smoke
- Water leaking toward electrical connections
If you see any of these, shut off water first. See emergency plumbing steps.
What affects the cost
We don’t publish national price figures because real quotes vary too much by region, access and the condition of your system. These are the factors that move the price:
- Repair vs. replacement
- Unit horsepower
- Electrical connection type
- Dishwasher connection
Ask for a written quote that names the method, materials and any permit or restoration work before work begins.
DIY vs. calling a professional
Reasonable for homeowners
- Pressing the reset button
- Freeing a jam with the hex key (power off)
- Cleaning the splash guard
Call a professional for
- Electrical wiring
- Body leaks
- Drain line clogs beyond the disposal
Prevention and maintenance
- Run cold water before, during and after use
- Avoid grease, fibrous peels, bones and large amounts of starch
- Do not use the disposal as a trash can
Specific garbage disposal repair services
Garbage Disposal Repair: common questions
Why is my garbage disposal humming but not working?
The flywheel is jammed. Turn off power, insert the hex key in the bottom center socket and work it back and forth to free it, then press reset.
Why did my garbage disposal stop working?
First press the red reset button on the bottom. If that does not help, check the switch and breaker. If there is still no power, the motor or wiring may have failed.
Can a leaking garbage disposal be repaired?
Leaks at the sink flange or hose connections are usually repairable. Leaks from the body of the unit usually mean replacement.
