Garbage Disposal Buzzing? Here's What You Should Do Now

Dumpsters.com reports that the average American throws away about 4.5 pounds of trash every day. Families generate around 18 pounds of waste daily.

A big part of this is food – banana peels, vegetable scraps, or old leftovers. Most homes use garbage disposals to get rid of this kind of kitchen waste. But like any other appliance, garbage disposals can stop working properly.

One common issue is garbage disposal buzzing. That sound usually means something inside isn’t working right. It might be jammed or blocked.

So what can you do when it starts making weird noises? Fix it with these simple steps.

Turn Off the Power Immediately

When you hear your garbage disposal buzzing, turn it off at the wall switch. Then go to your breaker box and shut off the power to the unit. The blades may not spin, but the motor still has power and can be dangerous.

Something stuck inside could be stopping the blades from turning. Trying to force it could break the motor or hurt your hand. Always cut the power before you check the unit.

Doing so protects both you and your appliance. A quiet garbage disposal should run smoothly without strange noises or humming. Acting early helps avoid bigger problems and keeps your kitchen working like it should.

Check for a Jam Inside the Unit

After you’ve turned off the power, grab a flashlight and look inside the disposal. Check for stuck items like:

Spoons
Food scraps
Small bone pieces
Fruit pits
Bottle caps

These can block the blades from turning. Use tongs or pliers to take them out. Never use your hands, even if the power is off.

Once everything is clear, find the red reset button under the unit. Press it to restart the motor. That often brings your disposal back to normal.

Turn the power back on and test it. If the buzzing sound is gone, the problem is likely fixed. You found a quick and safe plumbing solution without calling for help.

Use a Hex Wrench to Free the Flywheel

Still hearing the buzzing sound? It may be time to try a hands-on fix. Look at the bottom center of your garbage disposal.

You’ll see a small hole shaped for a hex key. Most units need a 1/4-inch wrench for this step. Insert the wrench and turn it back and forth a few times.

This helps shake loose anything stuck inside. You might feel the flywheel begin to turn more freely. When it spins without resistance, press the red reset button again.

Then, turn the power back on and test the unit. If the blades move and the noise stops, the job is done.

Listen for New Sounds After the Reset

Once your garbage disposal is back on, listen to how it sounds. You’re all set if the buzzing is gone and the blades spin well. Something may still be wrong if you notice:

Rattling
Grinding
Continued buzzing
Shaking
Burning smell

These signs point to worn parts or hidden blockages inside the unit. Don’t keep running it. That could turn a small problem into a big one.

Stop and check if there’s anything else stuck. If you can’t find the issue, it may be time to get help. Some problems are too tricky to handle alone.

Knowing when to step back is smart. You can fix kitchen appliances yourself, but only when it’s safe and simple to do so.

Know When to Call a Pro

If your garbage disposal still buzzes, it may be time for professional plumbing help. A licensed plumber can take the unit apart and check it more closely.

Some problems require tools and skills that most people don’t have. These might include:

Faulty wires
Broken flywheels
Worn bearings
Cracked motor housing
Loose mounting bolts

Things like faulty wires, broken flywheels, or worn bearings are not easy to fix at home. Calling a pro like Plumbing Outfitters can save you time and stop bigger problems later. Our team can discover the cause of the buzzing noise and offer a reliable solution.

If your unit is over 10 years old, it may be time for a new one. A quiet, working system keeps your kitchen running well and helps avoid future trouble.

Install the Right Way from the Start

Improper setup often causes buzzing or early breakdowns. When installing a new unit, do it right. Make sure the mount is tight and steady.

Check that all wires are secure and safe. Look for leaks where the unit connects to the sink. These small steps make a big difference.

A professional garbage disposal installation can help you avoid future trouble. The unit will run better from the start. If you like doing it yourself, follow the guide from the maker.

Double-check your power source before you begin. Use the right tools and take your time.

Skipping steps during setup often causes damage later. A solid setup gives you a strong, quiet system that lasts for years.

Prioritize Routine Care

Want your garbage disposal to last longer? Make garbage disposal maintenance a weekly habit. Run cold water while the unit is working.

Avoid pouring grease or oil down the drain. Cut food waste into small pieces before tossing it in. These steps help protect the blades and motor.

Clean the unit once a week. Use ice cubes, vinegar or baking soda. The mix helps break down grime and sharpen the blades.

It also keeps bad smells away and stops clogs from forming. A few simple habits can stop buzzing and bigger problems later. Taking care of your disposal keeps your kitchen running well and saves you money in the long run.

Garbage Disposal Buzzing? Don’t Wait to Act

Garbage disposal buzzing is often a warning. It means something inside needs attention now. You’ve learned what to check for and how to stay safe.

But when nothing works, it’s time to call in a pro. At Plumbing Outfitters, we fix what others can’t. Our crew has over 50 years of combined experience and real skill.

We treat every home like our own and stand by our work. Let us help you get your kitchen quiet again – with a plumbing team you can trust.