{"id":100632,"date":"2025-05-08T09:15:38","date_gmt":"2025-05-08T16:15:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/?p=100632"},"modified":"2025-05-15T14:57:14","modified_gmt":"2025-05-15T21:57:14","slug":"garbage-disposal-not-working","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/garbage-disposal-not-working\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Your Garbage Disposal Isn\u2019t Working and How to Fix It"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Garbage disposals are a convenient kitchen tool\u2014until they stop working. A jammed, humming, or completely silent unit can disrupt your daily routine and lead to plumbing problems if left unaddressed. In this Redfin article, we\u2019ll walk you through the most common reasons your garbage disposal might not be working, how to troubleshoot it, and when it\u2019s time to call a pro\u2014whether you\u2019re in a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/29470\/IL\/Chicago\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">house in Chicago, IL<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> or a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/city\/14240\/AZ\/Phoenix\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">home in Phoenix, AZ<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100633\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_1682952391.jpg\" alt=\"food waste down sink\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_1682952391.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_1682952391-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_1682952391-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_1682952391-225x150.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_1682952391-945x630.jpg 945w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_1682952391-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1. Check the power source<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sometimes, the solution is as simple as restoring power.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Start with the reset button:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Located on the bottom of the unit, this red or black button resets the disposal. If it\u2019s popped out, press it back in.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Look under the sink:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Make sure the unit is plugged in. It may have come loose.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Test the outlet:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Plug in another appliance to check if the outlet is working. If not, try resetting your circuit breaker.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pros tips for checking the power source<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><b>Always start with a reset<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cIf your garbage disposal suddenly stops, check for a reset button on the bottom\u2014it often trips during jams,\u201d says<\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/flowcityplumbing.com\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Flow City Plumbing<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. \u201cAlways unplug the unit before inspecting, and avoid harsh chemical cleaners. We recommend flushing monthly with baking soda and vinegar to keep odors away. Strange noises or persistent leaks usually mean it\u2019s time for a replacement.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Check the plug and wall switch<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cA non-working disposal might just need a quick reset,\u201d says<\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/sargentsoutlet.com\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sargents Maytag<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. \u201cMake sure it\u2019s plugged in, hit the reset button, and inspect for jams using a flashlight and tools\u2014never your hands. If it still won\u2019t turn on, the wall switch or wiring could be the issue.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Don\u2019t ignore electrical overloads<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u201cA sudden shutdown is often due to an electrical overload, and the reset button can solve it fast,\u201d explains<\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/afphpro.com\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A. Fagundes Plumbing &amp; Heating<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. \u201cJust remember to cut power first. For lasting performance, avoid fibrous waste and clean the disposal with a mix of ice cubes and citrus peels each month. These small steps can prevent costly issues.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2. Listen for humming or silence<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The sound your garbage disposal makes offers a clue.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Humming noise:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> This usually means the disposal is getting power, but the blades may be jammed by something like a piece of silverware or fibrous food. Running the unit in this state can burn out the motor, so shut it off right away and move to clearing the jam.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>No noise at all:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The unit might not be receiving power at all. Make sure it\u2019s securely plugged in, press the red reset button on the bottom of the unit, and check your circuit breaker for a tripped switch. If it still won\u2019t respond, there may be an issue with the wall switch or internal wiring.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3. Clear a jam safely<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Never use your hands inside the disposal\u2014use the right tools instead.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Turn off the power:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Unplug the unit or switch off the circuit breaker before doing anything.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Use an Allen wrench:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Insert it into the hex hole under the unit and manually turn it to free stuck impellers.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Try tongs or pliers:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Remove visible blockages using long tools\u2014not your hands.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pro tips for fixing a jammed garbage disposal<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><b>Avoid jams with safe practices<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u201cOne of the most common reasons a garbage disposal fails is a jam or overload,\u201d says<\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/allianceappliancerepairs.com\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Alliance Appliance Repair<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. \u201cIf the unit stops working, hit the reset button first\u2014but always cut the power before checking for blockages. Never put fibrous foods down the drain, and run cold water to flush everything through. Good habits can seriously extend your disposal\u2019s lifespan.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Inspect for debris and never treat your disposal like a trash can<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cStart by figuring out if the disposal is jammed or just lost power,\u201d explains<\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/helmkenplumbing.com\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bill Helmken Plumbing<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. \u201cIf it\u2019s jammed, turn off the power and inspect inside for debris\u2014then rotate the blades with the right tool. And never treat your disposal like a trash can\u2014avoid grease and tough waste.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Try a hex wrench to free the jam<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u201cIf your garbage disposal jams, try using the included hex wrench to free it up from below,\u201d advises<\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/samsappliance.repair\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sam\u2019s Appliance Repair<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. \u201cAlways make sure the unit is powered off before reaching inside. If it keeps tripping or grinding loudly, a replacement may be needed. For maintenance, flush it with cold water and toss in ice cubes with lemon peels to clean and deodorize.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100634\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_502013695.jpg\" alt=\"how to reset your garbage disposal\" width=\"1200\" height=\"927\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_502013695.jpg 1200w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_502013695-300x232.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_502013695-1024x791.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_502013695-768x593.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_502013695-194x150.jpg 194w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_502013695-816x630.jpg 816w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_502013695-388x300.jpg 388w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4. Inspect for clogs and buildup<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If the unit runs but doesn\u2019t drain, the clog may be deeper in the drainpipe.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Use a plunger:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> A sink plunger (not the toilet kind) can help push food particles through if the blockage is just beyond the disposal. Make sure to cover the other drain (if it\u2019s a double sink) for better suction.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Clean the trap:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Place a bucket under the P-trap (the curved pipe beneath the sink), then unscrew it carefully to rinse out any trapped food or sludge. This is a common place for clogs to form.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Avoid chemical cleaners:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Harsh drain cleaners can damage the disposal\u2019s internal components. Instead, pour in a mix of baking soda and vinegar, let it fizz for a few minutes, and flush with hot water.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5. Know what not to put in a garbage disposal<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prevention is key. Avoid these common clog-causing items:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Grease and oils:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> They solidify in pipes and cause buildup.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Fibrous vegetables:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Celery, corn husks, and artichoke leaves can wrap around the blades.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Coffee grounds:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> They clump together and can clog drains.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Eggshells:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The membrane layer can get caught in the disposal and cause jams.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Starchy foods:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Pasta, rice, and bread expand with water and create a gluey mess.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">6. Call a professional if needed<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you&#8217;ve tried everything and it&#8217;s still not working\u2014or you&#8217;re uncomfortable doing repairs\u2014it\u2019s smart to call a licensed plumber or electrician.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Pinpoint the issue before calling for help<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u201cMany disposal issues come down to something simple, like a stuck object or rust buildup,\u201d says<\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/localproappliancerepair.com\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LocalPRO Appliance Repair<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. \u201cAlways disconnect power before troubleshooting and use tongs instead of your hands. If the unit hums or won\u2019t reset, try using a hex key underneath. For leaks or aging disposals, replacement is often easier than repair.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">7. Replace the unit<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If the disposal is still unresponsive or frequently needs resetting, it may be time for a replacement.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Check for leaks: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Water around the base could indicate a cracked unit or bad seal,both of which often require replacing the unit.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Older than 10 years? <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many disposals last 8\u201315 years. If yours is aging and acting up, consider replacing it with a newer, more efficient model.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Plumber-approved tips for knowing when to repair or replace<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><b>Understand the full lifecycle of a disposal<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u201cA dead disposal might be overheating, jammed, or have a burned-out motor,\u201d says<\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/cocoonhomeservices.com\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cocoon Home Services<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. \u201cLet it cool for 15 minutes, then press the reset. If it\u2019s still not working, it could be time for a new unit\u2014especially if it\u2019s leaking or corroded. Run cold water during use, avoid overloading, and always break down large scraps beforehand.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Know when to repair or replace<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> \u201cMost disposal problems come from jams or power failures,\u201d says<\/span><a href=\"http:\/\/www.plumbers-elite.com\/\" data-wpel-link=\"external\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"external noopener noreferrer\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Plumbers Elite<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. \u201cReset the unit, check the breaker, and use a hex key to free the blades if needed. If it leaks or smokes, or it\u2019s over a decade old, replacement is usually best. Always cut the power before any fix, and clean monthly using ice and citrus for better performance.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-100635\" src=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_1968772618.jpg\" alt=\"plumber installing new garbage disposal\" width=\"1000\" height=\"667\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_1968772618.jpg 1000w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_1968772618-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_1968772618-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_1968772618-225x150.jpg 225w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_1968772618-945x630.jpg 945w, https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_1968772618-450x300.jpg 450w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Frequently asked questions about garbage disposal repairs\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">1. Is it safe to fix a garbage disposal myself?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, if the issue is minor like a reset or jam you can clear safely with tools. Always unplug it first.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">2. Why is my garbage disposal humming but not spinning?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This usually means it&#8217;s jammed. Try using an Allen wrench on the bottom of the unit to free the blades.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">3. What should I never put down a garbage disposal?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Avoid grease, coffee grounds, fibrous vegetables, and starchy foods like pasta or rice.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">4. When should I call a professional?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If the disposal is leaking, unresponsive, or more than 10 years old, it&#8217;s best to call a licensed plumber.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">5. Can I use drain cleaner in a garbage disposal?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No\u2014chemical cleaners can damage the unit. Use a vinegar and baking soda mix instead or other safer methods to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/how-to-clean-garbage-disposal\/\" data-wpel-link=\"exclude\">clean the garbage disposal<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Is your garbage disposal jammed, humming, or silent? Learn how to fix common issues and when to repair or replace your unit in this expert-backed guide.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":562,"featured_media":100633,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"default","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-4)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[34278],"tags":[34609],"coauthors":[34346],"class_list":["post-100632","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-home-improvement","tag-home-maintenance"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v24.7 (Yoast SEO v28.3) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Garbage Disposal Not Working? Here&#039;s How to Fix It | Redfin<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Is your garbage disposal jammed, humming, or silent? Learn how to fix common issues and when to repair or replace your unit in this expert-backed guide.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/garbage-disposal-not-working\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Why Your Garbage Disposal Isn\u2019t Working and How to Fix It\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Is your garbage disposal jammed, humming, or silent? Learn how to fix common issues and when to repair or replace your unit in this expert-backed guide.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/garbage-disposal-not-working\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Redfin | Real Estate Tips for Home Buying, Selling &amp; More\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/redfin\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2025-05-08T16:15:38+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2025-05-15T21:57:14+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_1682952391.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1000\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"667\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Marissa Crum\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@redfin\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@redfin\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"Marissa Crum\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"7 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/garbage-disposal-not-working\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/garbage-disposal-not-working\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Marissa Crum\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/dba858ab820bf024303a819ca6d10eaf\"},\"headline\":\"Why Your Garbage Disposal Isn\u2019t Working and How to Fix It\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-05-08T16:15:38+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-05-15T21:57:14+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/garbage-disposal-not-working\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":1419,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/garbage-disposal-not-working\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/05\\\/shutterstock_1682952391.jpg\",\"keywords\":[\"home maintenance\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Home Improvement\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"copyrightYear\":\"2025\",\"copyrightHolder\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/#organization\"}},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/garbage-disposal-not-working\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/garbage-disposal-not-working\\\/\",\"name\":\"Garbage Disposal Not Working? Here's How to Fix It | Redfin\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/garbage-disposal-not-working\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/garbage-disposal-not-working\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/05\\\/shutterstock_1682952391.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-05-08T16:15:38+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2025-05-15T21:57:14+00:00\",\"description\":\"Is your garbage disposal jammed, humming, or silent? Learn how to fix common issues and when to repair or replace your unit in this expert-backed guide.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/garbage-disposal-not-working\\\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/garbage-disposal-not-working\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/garbage-disposal-not-working\\\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/05\\\/shutterstock_1682952391.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2025\\\/05\\\/shutterstock_1682952391.jpg\",\"width\":1000,\"height\":667,\"caption\":\"food waste down sink\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/garbage-disposal-not-working\\\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Why Your Garbage Disposal Isn\u2019t Working and How to Fix It\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/\",\"name\":\"Redfin | Real Estate Tips for Home Buying, Selling &amp; More\",\"description\":\"Real estate on Wall Street, Main Street and your street.\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/#organization\",\"name\":\"Redfin\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2020\\\/03\\\/Redfin-logo-512x512-1.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2020\\\/03\\\/Redfin-logo-512x512-1.jpg\",\"width\":512,\"height\":512,\"caption\":\"Redfin\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\"},\"sameAs\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.facebook.com\\\/redfin\",\"https:\\\/\\\/x.com\\\/redfin\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.instagram.com\\\/redfinrealestate\\\/\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.linkedin.com\\\/company\\\/redfin\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.pinterest.com\\\/redfin\\\/\",\"https:\\\/\\\/www.youtube.com\\\/channel\\\/UCMIuo1QSGcmWnevT9jdC_Ow\",\"https:\\\/\\\/en.wikipedia.org\\\/wiki\\\/Redfin\"]},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/dba858ab820bf024303a819ca6d10eaf\",\"name\":\"Marissa Crum\",\"description\":\"Marissa is a Content Marketing Specialist at Redfin with 4 years of experience creating real estate and lifestyle content. For the past 2 years, she has focused on writing mortgage and financing resources that help readers make informed decisions. Living in Los Angeles, she balances city life with time outdoors and a love for sunsets.\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.redfin.com/blog\\\/author\\\/marissa-crumredfin-com\\\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO Premium plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Garbage Disposal Not Working? Here's How to Fix It | Redfin","description":"Is your garbage disposal jammed, humming, or silent? Learn how to fix common issues and when to repair or replace your unit in this expert-backed guide.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/garbage-disposal-not-working\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Why Your Garbage Disposal Isn\u2019t Working and How to Fix It","og_description":"Is your garbage disposal jammed, humming, or silent? Learn how to fix common issues and when to repair or replace your unit in this expert-backed guide.","og_url":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/garbage-disposal-not-working\/","og_site_name":"Redfin | Real Estate Tips for Home Buying, Selling &amp; More","article_publisher":"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/redfin","article_published_time":"2025-05-08T16:15:38+00:00","article_modified_time":"2025-05-15T21:57:14+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1000,"height":667,"url":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_1682952391.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"Marissa Crum","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@redfin","twitter_site":"@redfin","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"Marissa Crum","Est. reading time":"7 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/garbage-disposal-not-working\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/garbage-disposal-not-working\/"},"author":{"name":"Marissa Crum","@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/dba858ab820bf024303a819ca6d10eaf"},"headline":"Why Your Garbage Disposal Isn\u2019t Working and How to Fix It","datePublished":"2025-05-08T16:15:38+00:00","dateModified":"2025-05-15T21:57:14+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/garbage-disposal-not-working\/"},"wordCount":1419,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/garbage-disposal-not-working\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_1682952391.jpg","keywords":["home maintenance"],"articleSection":["Home Improvement"],"inLanguage":"en-US","copyrightYear":"2025","copyrightHolder":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/#organization"}},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/garbage-disposal-not-working\/","url":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/garbage-disposal-not-working\/","name":"Garbage Disposal Not Working? Here's How to Fix It | Redfin","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/garbage-disposal-not-working\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/garbage-disposal-not-working\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_1682952391.jpg","datePublished":"2025-05-08T16:15:38+00:00","dateModified":"2025-05-15T21:57:14+00:00","description":"Is your garbage disposal jammed, humming, or silent? Learn how to fix common issues and when to repair or replace your unit in this expert-backed guide.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/garbage-disposal-not-working\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/garbage-disposal-not-working\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/garbage-disposal-not-working\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_1682952391.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/shutterstock_1682952391.jpg","width":1000,"height":667,"caption":"food waste down sink"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/garbage-disposal-not-working\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Why Your Garbage Disposal Isn\u2019t Working and How to Fix It"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/","name":"Redfin | Real Estate Tips for Home Buying, Selling &amp; More","description":"Real estate on Wall Street, Main Street and your street.","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/#organization","name":"Redfin","url":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Redfin-logo-512x512-1.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Redfin-logo-512x512-1.jpg","width":512,"height":512,"caption":"Redfin"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/redfin","https:\/\/x.com\/redfin","https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/redfinrealestate\/","https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/redfin","https:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/redfin\/","https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/channel\/UCMIuo1QSGcmWnevT9jdC_Ow","https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Redfin"]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/#\/schema\/person\/dba858ab820bf024303a819ca6d10eaf","name":"Marissa Crum","description":"Marissa is a Content Marketing Specialist at Redfin with 4 years of experience creating real estate and lifestyle content. For the past 2 years, she has focused on writing mortgage and financing resources that help readers make informed decisions. Living in Los Angeles, she balances city life with time outdoors and a love for sunsets.","url":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/author\/marissa-crumredfin-com\/"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/100632","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/562"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=100632"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/100632\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":100808,"href":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/100632\/revisions\/100808"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/100633"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=100632"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=100632"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=100632"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.redfin.com\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=100632"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}