1. Check the Power
If your garbage disposal isn’t turning on when plugged in, it could signal an electrical problem. Before you reach out to your Prime Appliance, follow these two steps:

Push the reset button: Sometimes, the built-in circuit breaker on a garbage disposal can trip. To reset it, simply push the reset button at the bottom of the unit.
Check for tripped circuit breakers: There’s a chance your main circuit breaker tripped, so check your home’s electrical panel for a complete reset. Then, run your garbage disposal and see if that solves the problem.
If the problem persists, the motor is likely worn out, and the unit may need replacing. The professionals at your  Prime Appliance will confirm if this is the issue and whether or not your garbage disposal needs replacing.

2. Clear the Drain
High-fiber foods, cornhusks, avocado peels, bones, utensils, and other materials can jam your disposal. To address clogs, start making sure the power is turned off by unplugging the unit.

Then, disassemble the trap — the U-shaped drain under the sink that catches food debris — and clear the clog with a drain snake. After you’ve removed all debris, reassemble the trap and turn the water on to check if the clog has cleared.

3. Fix the Impeller Plates and Flywheels
Excessive noise or a humming sound coming from your garbage disposal when you turn it on typically indicates a jammed flywheel or impeller plate. In most cases, it’s a result of foreign objects, food, or loose mounting screws. Under the motor, you can insert a socket wrench into the flywheel hole to rotate the impeller or flywheel and attempt to clear the jam.

4. Rotate the Blades
The blades attached to the impeller plate can also become stuck due to a buildup of food waste. The build-up can prevent the garbage disposal from draining. To fix this, turn off the unit and use an Allen wrench to manually rotate the blades back and forth. Once you feel the blades loosen, turn the unit back on for a test run.

If the problem persists, it may be because the blades are old and worn, or there is a motor issue.

5.eplacement. However, sometimes leaks mean the unit will have to be replaced. Determine the source of the leak by inspecting the area where a pool of water is present. Leaks are most common at the sink flange, at the dishwasher connection, or at the discharge drainpipe.

Once the source of the leak is found, you can move forward with the right course of action to repair it. For leaks coming from the dishwasher connection or discharge drainpipe, you may need to use a clamp or tighten the bolts to prevent the leak. However, the hose or pipe may also need to be replaced.

If the leak is coming from the top of the sink or there is a crack in the garbage disposal, a sealant may do the trick. To ensure you properly address any leaks, call a professional garbage disposal repair service to lend a hand.

6. Call a Local Professional
If you’re still having trouble with your garbage disposal, it may indicate a bigger problem, like a faulty motor or electrical issues. Proper maintenance is extremely important to preserve the integrity of your garbage disposal and prevent it from being damaged.

After trying the steps above, contact a professional garbage disposal repair service like Prime Appliance to determine why your garbage disposal isn’t working and if a replacement is necessary.