As a homeowner in St. Petersburg, FL, you rely on your garbage disposal to make kitchen cleanup easier. But what happens when it stops working? Don’t worry! It’s a common issue, and there are a few things you can check before calling a plumber.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through some troubleshooting steps and provide helpful plumbing tips to get your disposal back in working order.
Why Do Garbage Disposals Stop Working?
Several factors can cause a garbage disposal to stop working. While age and wear can eventually burn out the motor, the most common issue in St. Petersburg homes is a jammed disposal unit.
Common Causes of Garbage Disposal Malfunctions
- Jammed Grinding Mechanism – Food waste, utensils, or other objects can get stuck in the blades.
- Overload Protection Activation – The disposal’s built-in breaker may trip if the unit is overloaded.
- Electrical Issues – A power failure or tripped circuit breaker may prevent the disposal from running.
- Leaks or Corrosion – If the disposal has leaks, it may need repair or replacement.
Most disposals have a reset button at the bottom of the unit. If the disposal hums for 5-10 seconds before shutting off, this indicates the motor is struggling against an obstruction. If this happens, you may need to reset the system and manually clear the jam.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting for Garbage Disposal Problems
Here’s what you can do to fix a malfunctioning garbage disposal before calling a professional.
1. Check the Reset Button
The first step is to locate the reset button at the bottom of the disposal. On most models (such as Insinkerator), this button is red. If it has popped out, press it back in to reset the unit. Then, turn on the disposal to see if it works.
2. Clear the Jam with an Allen Wrench
If the reset button doesn’t fix the issue, the disposal may be jammed. Most models, like the Insinkerator Badger, have a slot at the bottom where you can insert a 1/4-inch Allen wrench.
- Insert the wrench into the slot.
- Rotate it back and forth to loosen the blades.
- Once freed, press the reset button and test the disposal.
3. Manually Unlock the Blades
Some budget-friendly models (such as Moen disposals) may not have a reset button or Allen key slot. In this case, you’ll need to manually remove the obstruction using tongs or pliers.
⚠️ Important: Never put your hand inside the disposal! Always use a tool to remove food scraps or debris safely.
4. Check the Circuit Breaker
If your garbage disposal is plugged into a GFCI outlet, it may have tripped the breaker.
- Locate your home’s electrical panel.
- Check if the breaker for the disposal has flipped off.
- Reset it and test the disposal again.
5. Inspect for Leaks or Corrosion
If you notice water leaks under the sink or signs of corrosion on the disposal, the unit may be beyond repair. A leaky disposal often requires full replacement, especially if the motor is failing.
Need a replacement? Check out our garbage disposal repair and replacement services for expert help!
When to Call a Professional Plumber in St. Petersburg
While minor disposal issues can be fixed with these troubleshooting steps, some situations require professional help. Call a plumber if:
✅ The disposal still won’t turn on after troubleshooting.
✅ There’s a persistent burning smell from the motor.
✅ The unit is leaking or making loud grinding noises.
✅ Your disposal frequently jams, even after clearing blockages.
At Flow Pros Plumbing, we specialize in garbage disposal repair and installation. Whether you need a quick fix or a full replacement, we can diagnose the problem and provide the best solution for your home.
Preventative Maintenance for Garbage Disposals
To keep your disposal running smoothly, follow these maintenance tips:
✔️ Avoid Fibrous Foods – Don’t put celery, potato peels, or coffee grounds in the disposal.
✔️ Use Cold Water – Always run cold water while using the disposal to help flush food waste.
✔️ Clean Regularly – Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to remove odors and buildup.
✔️ Grind Ice Cubes & Citrus Peels – This helps sharpen the blades and keep the unit fresh.
By taking care of your garbage disposal, you can extend its lifespan and reduce repairs.
Call Flow Pros Plumbing for Expert Garbage Disposal Repairs in St. Petersburg, FL
If your garbage disposal still isn’t working or you suspect a more serious problem, Flow Pros Plumbing is here to help!
We offer fast and reliable garbage disposal repair and replacement services in St. Petersburg, FL. Whether you need a simple fix or a new installation, our experienced team will get your disposal running again.
📞 Call us today or schedule a service online!