Quick answer
A disposal that hums and will not spin is jammed. One that is silent has usually tripped its reset button or lost power. One that leaks has a failed seal, a loose flange or a cracked housing. Appliance Repair Philly repairs and replaces garbage disposals in Philadelphia and nearby towns. The diagnostic is $60 flat and credited toward the repair. Repairs cost $120 to $250, and a replacement with installation $200 to $400.
Common disposal problems
| What you see | Likely cause | Typical fix |
|---|---|---|
| Humming, no spin | Jammed flywheel | Free the jam |
| No sound, no power | Tripped reset, wall switch, outlet | Press reset, check switch and breaker |
| Leak at the top | Sink flange seal or mounting | Reseat or replace the flange |
| Leak at the side | Drain or dishwasher hose connection | Tighten or replace the fitting |
| Leak at the bottom | Cracked housing or failed shaft seal | Replace the disposal |
| Slow drain or bad smell | Food buildup, clogged trap | Clean the disposal and the trap |
| Loud grinding | Foreign object, worn parts | Remove the object, replace if worn |
Safe steps for a jam
- Turn off the switch and unplug the unit, or turn off the breaker. Never put your hand in the disposal.
- Look inside with a flashlight. Use tongs to remove a spoon, bottle cap or bone.
- Find the hex socket on the center of the underside. Turn it with the hex wrench back and forth until the flywheel moves freely.
- Press the red reset button on the bottom of the unit.
- Turn the power on and run cold water. Test.
If it trips again, the motor is failing. If there is any burning smell, stop and call.
What not to put in a disposal
Grease, coffee grounds in bulk, bones, fibrous vegetables such as celery and corn husks, pasta and rice (they swell), and eggshells in large amounts. Run cold water for 15 seconds before and after use. Never use drain chemicals in a disposal.
The dishwasher connection
A disposal that is clogged can block the dishwasher drain too. See dishwasher not draining. A new disposal installed with a dishwasher needs the knockout plug removed from the dishwasher port, or the dishwasher will not drain.
Repair or replace
Disposals last 8 to 12 years. A jam, a reset or a loose connection is a quick repair. A leak from the housing or a burnt motor means replacement. We install a new disposal when it makes more sense, and the $60 diagnostic is credited toward it. See the cost guide.
What it costs
| Job | Typical total |
|---|---|
| Diagnostic | $60 flat, credited |
| Free a jam, reset, clean | $100 to $170 |
| Fix a leak at the flange or hose | $120 to $250 |
| New disposal installed | $200 to $400 |
How it works
- Send the brand and what you hear or see.
- Call to check the next open appointment; availability depends on the schedule.
- Diagnosis and a clear price. The $60 is credited if you go ahead.
- Repair or replacement, then a test run.
Areas we serve
Philadelphia, Northeast Philadelphia, Bensalem, Willow Grove, Abington, Huntingdon Valley, Southampton and Feasterville-Trevose.
FAQ
Why is my garbage disposal humming but not working?
It is jammed. Turn the power off and free the flywheel with a hex wrench, then press reset.
Where is the reset button on a disposal?
On the bottom of the unit, usually red.
How much does garbage disposal repair cost?
Most repairs are $120 to $250. A new one installed is $200 to $400.
Why is my disposal leaking?
The sink flange, a hose, or the housing itself. A cracked housing means replacement.
Can I put my hand in to clear a jam?
No. Cut the power first and use tongs or a hex wrench.
Where can I see how repair prices work?
The FAQ covers the $60 diagnostic and scheduling.