Garbage disposals are incredibly useful appliances, but like any other machine, they can encounter issues over time. One of the more common problems that homeowners face is an overheating garbage disposal. When the disposal overheats, it can stop working, and if not addressed quickly, it may cause permanent damage. Fortunately, most overheating issues can be fixed with a few simple steps. Here’s what you should do if your garbage disposal is overheating.

1. Turn Off the Power

The first and most important step is to turn off the power to the garbage disposal. This will help prevent any further damage to the appliance and ensure your safety while you address the issue. You can do this in one of two ways:

  • Unplug the disposal: If your garbage disposal is plugged into a standard outlet, unplugging it is the easiest way to cut off the power.
  • Turn off the circuit breaker: If your garbage disposal is hardwired, find the circuit breaker that controls the disposal and flip it off. This ensures that no electricity is running to the unit while you work on it.

2. Allow the Disposal to Cool Down

If your garbage disposal is overheating, it’s often a sign that it’s been running too long or under excessive strain. Overheating causes the motor to shut off automatically as a safety precaution. Give the motor some time to cool down — usually, 15 to 30 minutes is enough. During this time, avoid running the disposal, as the motor may still be too hot to operate safely.

3. Check for a Jam or Clog

One of the most common causes of an overheating garbage disposal is a jam or clog inside the unit. When the blades can’t move freely due to debris, the motor can overheat as it struggles to turn. To check for a jam:

  • Look inside the disposal: Use a flashlight to inspect the interior for any visible obstructions. Avoid sticking your hands into the disposal unless the power is completely off.
  • Free up any jams: If you see food particles, bones, or any other debris blocking the blades, use pliers or tongs to remove the items. Do not use your hands, as the blades are sharp and dangerous.

4. Reset the Disposal

After allowing the disposal to cool and removing any obstructions, resetting the disposal can often solve the overheating issue. Most garbage disposals come equipped with a reset button on the bottom of the unit, typically located underneath the disposal. Follow these steps to reset it:

  • Press the reset button: Locate the red or black button and press it. If the button has popped out, it means the motor was overheated and shut off automatically. Pressing the button will restore power to the motor.
  • Test the disposal: Once the button has been pressed, plug the disposal back in (or turn on the circuit breaker) and run cold water through it while turning the disposal on. If it runs smoothly, the issue may have been resolved.

5. Check the Disposal’s Wiring

If resetting the disposal doesn’t work, it could be a sign of an electrical issue. Overheating can sometimes be caused by a problem with the electrical wiring or the motor itself. Here’s how to check:

  • Inspect the wiring: Make sure the disposal is securely plugged in (if it’s a plug-in model) or check the electrical connections if it’s hardwired. Any loose wires or exposed wires could cause the motor to overheat.
  • Test the switch: If the switch that controls the disposal is malfunctioning, it could lead to overheating. Test the switch by turning it on and off and checking for any unusual behavior, such as sparking or failure to turn on.

If you’re uncomfortable working with electrical components, it’s best to call a professional electrician or plumber to inspect the disposal’s wiring.

6. Examine the Motor

If none of the above steps solve the overheating problem, the motor itself may be the culprit. Over time, garbage disposal motors can wear out due to extended use, causing them to overheat more frequently. In this case, you may need to replace the motor or the entire unit.

  • Signs of motor failure: If you hear unusual noises or notice that the disposal runs intermittently, it could be a sign that the motor is damaged and overheating. If the motor smells burnt, it’s likely the motor has failed and needs to be replaced.
  • Call a professional: If you suspect the motor is the issue, it’s best to contact a professional plumber or technician to repair or replace the motor. Depending on the age and condition of the disposal, it might be more cost-effective to replace the entire unit.

7. Prevent Future Overheating

To prevent your garbage disposal from overheating in the future, follow these maintenance tips:

  • Run the disposal with water: Always run cold water when using the disposal. Water helps keep the motor cool and flushes food particles down the drain.
  • Don’t overload the disposal: Avoid putting large amounts of food waste into the disposal at once. Overloading the disposal can strain the motor and cause overheating.
  • Avoid putting grease and fibrous foods down the disposal: Grease can solidify in the pipes, causing clogs, while fibrous foods like celery and corn husks can wrap around the blades, causing jams.
  • Clean the disposal regularly: Clean the blades and inside the disposal with ice cubes and citrus peels to keep it running smoothly.

Final Thoughts

An overheating garbage disposal is often a sign that something is wrong, but it’s usually a problem you can fix yourself. By turning off the power, checking for jams, resetting the unit, and ensuring the wiring and motor are in good condition, you can often get your disposal back in working order. Regular maintenance and proper usage will help prevent overheating in the future and ensure that your garbage disposal continues to function properly for years to come. If all else fails, don’t hesitate to contact a professional to inspect or replace your unit.