If your garbage disposal is making a humming noise but not spinning, it can be frustrating. A humming disposal typically means that the motor is still receiving power, but something is preventing the blades from moving. Fortunately, this is a common issue that can often be fixed with a few simple steps. In this guide, we’ll explain why your garbage disposal may be humming but not spinning and how to resolve the issue.

1. Turn Off the Power

Before you begin working on your garbage disposal, safety is paramount. Always turn off the power to the unit to avoid any risk of injury. You can do this in one of two ways:

  • Unplug the disposal: If your garbage disposal is plugged into an outlet, unplug it to cut off the power.
  • Turn off the circuit breaker: If the disposal is hardwired into the electrical system, locate the circuit breaker for the disposal and flip it off.

It’s crucial that the power is off to avoid the motor accidentally turning on while you’re working.

2. Check for Jams

One of the most common reasons for a humming garbage disposal is a jam or blockage. Food debris, small utensils, or other objects can get caught in the disposal, preventing the blades from turning. When the blades are obstructed, the motor may hum, but the blades won’t be able to spin.

How to solve it:

  • Use a flashlight: Shine a flashlight into the disposal to check for any visible obstructions or debris.
  • Manually turn the blades: If you can see debris, try to remove it with pliers or tongs (never use your hands). If you don’t see anything but the blades are still stuck, you can try manually rotating the blades. Many disposals have a hexagonal hole at the bottom that allows you to turn the blades manually using a wrench or the disposal’s own hex wrench (often included with the unit). Insert the wrench into the hole and turn it back and forth to loosen any jammed debris or to free the blades. If the blades are free to move, this should resolve the humming issue.

3. Reset the Disposal

After freeing the blades, the disposal may still not function if it’s been overheated due to the jam. Most garbage disposals have a reset button on the bottom of the unit. This button is typically red or black and is a safety feature designed to prevent the motor from burning out.

How to solve it:

  • Press the reset button: Once the debris is cleared and the blades can move freely, press the reset button on the bottom of the disposal. This will reset the motor.
  • Test the disposal: After resetting the unit, restore power by either plugging it back in or flipping the circuit breaker. Turn on the water and run the disposal to see if it starts working properly.

4. Check for an Electrical Issue

If the disposal continues to hum but won’t spin, the issue may lie in the electrical system. The motor might be receiving power, but the internal components may not be functioning properly.

How to solve it:

  • Inspect the power supply: Check if the electrical cord is plugged in properly. If the disposal is hardwired, make sure the wiring connections are secure and undamaged.
  • Examine the switch: A malfunctioning switch can prevent the disposal from turning on. Test the switch by turning it on and off to see if it responds. If it’s not working, you may need to replace the switch.

If you’re not comfortable working with electrical components, it’s a good idea to contact a professional electrician or plumber.

5. Examine the Disposal’s Motor

If the above steps don’t resolve the humming issue, it’s possible that the motor itself is malfunctioning. The motor might be damaged, worn out, or too weak to rotate the blades. A humming motor is a common sign of motor failure, though it could also be a result of an internal electrical problem.

How to solve it:

  • Listen carefully: When the disposal hums, listen closely for any unusual noises, such as a grinding sound. If the motor seems to be struggling or making a buzzing sound that doesn’t go away, it’s likely that the motor is faulty and may need to be replaced.
  • Professional inspection: If the motor is damaged, you will likely need to replace the entire unit. This can be a complicated repair, as replacing the motor involves disassembling the disposal and ensuring the motor is compatible with your unit. In many cases, it’s more cost-effective to replace the entire disposal rather than just the motor.

6. Prevent Future Issues

Once your disposal is working again, it’s important to prevent future issues. Here are a few tips to help maintain your disposal and avoid jams or motor strain:

  • Run cold water while using the disposal: Always run cold water when operating your garbage disposal. This helps solidify any grease or fat and allows the disposal to process it properly.
  • Avoid putting large items down the disposal: Don’t overload the disposal with large pieces of food waste or non-food items like bones or plastic.
  • Regularly clean the disposal: Clean your disposal regularly to avoid grease buildup, which can cause jams. You can use ice cubes, lemon peels, or a mixture of vinegar and baking soda for a natural clean.
  • Be cautious with fats and oils: Never pour hot grease, oil, or fats down the disposal, as these substances can solidify and cause clogs.

It Can Be Fixed, Usually

A humming garbage disposal that isn’t spinning can usually be fixed with a little time and effort. By checking for jams, manually turning the blades, resetting the unit, and ensuring the electrical system is working correctly, you can likely resolve the issue. However, if these steps don’t work and the motor appears to be damaged, it may be time to replace the disposal or call in a professional. Regular maintenance can help prevent this issue in the future, keeping your disposal in good working condition.