12 Common Reasons Why Your Garbage Disposal is Humming

Is your garbage disposal making a humming noise instead of grinding up food like it should? Don’t worry too much! It might just need a little attention.

When a disposal hums but doesn’t grind, it usually means the motor is running but the blades are stuck. This can happen if food or objects get jammed, if you put too much food in at once, or if there’s a power problem. Sometimes, the blades might be worn out or rusty too.

Though it might appear minor, a humming disposal can hint at a bigger problem. Ignoring it could lead to more issues like bad smells, clogs in your pipes, or even the disposal breaking down completely.

Which is why understanding the reason behind garbage disposal humming can be crucial in taking early action before the issue worsens. Let’s take a look at 12 common reasons why your garbage disposal might be humming.

Why Your Garbage Disposal MIGHT BE Humming: 12 Common Causes

A humming garbage disposal is a sure sign that something is wrong with the machine. While it might not be a complete breakdown, it’s definitely a cause for concern. :

1. Jamming: This is the most common issue behind a humming garbage disposal. Food scraps or utensils can become lodged between the blades, preventing them from rotating properly. This causes the motor to strain and emit a humming noise without effectively grinding anything.
2. Foreign Objects: Sometimes, hard or non-food items like silverware, bones, or fruit pits can accidentally find their way into the disposal. These objects can jam the blades or damage the motor, leading to a humming sound.
3. Overload: Trying to grind too much food waste at once can overload the garbage disposal. This can cause the motor to struggle and hum, and might even trip a circuit breaker to prevent overheating.
4. Faulty Motor: Over time, the motor of your garbage disposal can wear out and malfunction. This can manifest as a humming noise even when there’s no apparent blockage.
5. Lack of Power: If the garbage disposal isn’t getting electricity, it won’t function properly. This could be due to a tripped circuit breaker, a faulty GFCI outlet, or a loose connection. In such cases, the disposal might hum but not grind.
6. Rusty or Worn Out Blades: With constant use, the disposal blades can become dull or rusty. This reduces their efficiency and can lead to humming as the motor strains to grind food scraps.
7. Improper Installation: If the garbage disposal wasn’t installed correctly, it might not be properly aligned or secured. This can cause the unit to vibrate and make humming noises during operation.
8. Failing Bearings: The bearings within the disposal motor help the shaft spin smoothly. If these bearings wear out or break, they can cause friction and a humming noise.
9. Clogged Drain Pipe: A blockage beyond the disposal itself, in the drainpipe, can prevent proper water flow and hinder the disposal’s grinding ability. This can lead to a humming noise as the motor struggles.
10. Water Leakage: Leakage from the disposal unit can indicate a damaged seal or internal component. This is a serious issue and should be addressed by a plumber to prevent further damage and potential electrical hazards.
11. Stuck Flywheel: The flywheel is a component that helps the blades spin. If it gets jammed with debris or food scraps, it can prevent the blades from rotating and cause a humming noise.
12. Electrical Issues: Faulty wiring or internal electrical components within the disposal can also lead to humming noises. It’s important to avoid any electrical troubleshooting yourself and consult a qualified electrician for such issues.

Caution: Trying to fix a big garbage disposal problem yourself can be risky if you don’t know much about plumbing or electricity. You might make things worse or even get shocked. There’s also a chance of water leaks and damage if you don’t do the repairs right. It’s safer to get help from a professional if you’re not sure what to do.

Let the Experts Handle Your Humming Garbage Disposal

Having a humming garbage disposal can be annoying, but it doesn’t have to be a big problem. If you’ve noticed any of the issues we talked about earlier, it’s best to call a professional plumber to fix it. They have the skills and equipment to diagnose and fix your garbage disposal safely and efficiently.

Remember, getting it fixed quickly can save you money and stop more damage. You can trust Good Guys Home Services to get your garbage disposal work efficiently.

Don’t wait! Call us now for a free estimate and to schedule service. We’re here to make sure you’re happy with our work.