Understanding Your Garbage Disposal
We rely on our garbage disposals to handle food scraps and keep our kitchens clean. But what happens when yours starts making odd noises? A garbage disposal should run smoothly with a steady hum. If it starts clanking, grinding, or making other strange sounds, it’s time to figure out what’s wrong.
At A/C Contractors Air Conditioning & Heating, we know how frustrating a noisy garbage disposal can be. Let’s look at some common reasons for the racket and how garbage disposal repair can help.
Common Noises and What They Mean
1. Rattling or Clanking
If you hear rattling, something may be stuck inside. Silverware, bottle caps, or small bones often fall in by accident. To check, first turn off the disposal and unplug it. Then, use tongs or pliers to remove any foreign objects—never use your hands!
2. Grinding or Metal-on-Metal Sounds
A grinding noise might mean loose or misaligned components inside the disposal. Over time, the blades or other parts can wear down and shift. If tightening screws doesn’t help, you may need a professional garbage disposal repair.
3. Humming but Not Grinding
If your disposal hums but doesn’t grind food, it might be jammed. Something could be stuck between the blades, or the motor might be failing. Try pressing the reset button on the bottom of the unit. If that doesn’t work, the unit may need a repair or replacement.
4. Loud Whirring
A high-pitched whirring noise could indicate a motor issue. If the motor isn’t engaging properly, it may be time for a repair or replacement.
Quick Fixes You Can Try
Reset the Unit
Many disposals have a reset button on the bottom. If your disposal suddenly stops working after making noise, try pressing this button.
Check for Blockages
Use a flashlight to look inside. If you see something stuck, carefully remove it with pliers or tongs.
Use an Allen Wrench
Most garbage disposals have a small hole at the bottom where you can insert an Allen wrench to manually turn the blades and free a jam.
When to Call a Professional
While some fixes are simple, other issues require expert garbage disposal repair. If your disposal continues making strange noises, leaks, or won’t turn on, call A/C Contractors Air Conditioning & Heating.
Our team serves homeowners in Tyler and Longview, TX, and surrounding areas. We provide top-notch service and ensure your disposal runs smoothly again.
Preventing Future Issues
Here are some tips to keep your disposal in top shape:
- Run cold water while using the disposal to prevent clogs.
- Avoid hard or fibrous foods like bones, corn husks, and coffee grounds.
- Clean it regularly by grinding ice cubes and citrus peels.
Need Garbage Disposal Repair? We Can Help!
If your garbage disposal is making strange noises, don’t ignore it! Small problems can turn into big ones fast. Contact A/C Contractors Air Conditioning & Heating for professional, friendly service in Tyler and Longview, TX. We’ll have your disposal working like new in no time!
