Why did my garbage disposal stop working?
A disposal that hums but doesn't turn is usually jammed. One that makes no sound at all has usually tripped its overload protector or lost power. A leak underneath usually comes from a loose connection or a worn seal, or from a cracked housing.
- Hums, doesn't spin: jammed by food, bone or a utensil
- Silent: overload protector tripped, switch or breaker off, or a failed motor
- Leaking from the top or side: loose mounting or drain connection
- Leaking from the bottom: often a cracked housing, which means replacement
- Drains slowly: clog in the disposal or the kitchen drain line
How do I reset a garbage disposal?
Turn the disposal switch off, find the red reset button on the bottom of the unit under the sink, and press it gently. InSinkErator says a tripped button sits about a quarter of an inch lower, and if it won't stay up, wait ten minutes and try again.
Never put your hand inside a disposal. If it still won't run after a reset, or it trips again straight away, call a plumber.
How do I use a disposal without clogging the drain?
Run cool water before switching it on, feed food in gradually, and never put fats, oils or grease down it. That's InSinkErator’s own guidance, along with letting water run for a few seconds after grinding to flush the drain.
Grease also builds up in sewer lines. KUB’s Can-the-Grease program asks Knoxville residents to keep fats, oils and grease out of the drain to prevent backups and overflows.
Should I repair or replace my garbage disposal?
Repair makes sense for jams, tripped resets, loose connections and switch faults. Replace it if the housing is cracked and leaking from the bottom, the motor has failed, or it's old and keeps jamming.
A plumber can tell you which on the first visit, and quote both if needed.
How do I get a plumber for a garbage disposal?
Call 865-321-8269 and tell us what the disposal is doing. We'll connect you with a licensed local plumber who can repair or replace it.
- Call 865-321-8269. Tell us what's happening and where you are. Calls are answered 24/7.
- We connect you. We route you to a licensed local plumber who serves your area.
- Get a clear quote. The pro explains the problem and prices it before any work starts.
- You decide. You approve the work, and it's completed with any permits your city or county requires.
Plumbers in Knoxville Today is a referral service. We don't perform plumbing work ourselves; the licensed local plumber you're connected with quotes and completes the job.
Frequently asked questions
Can a plumber install a new garbage disposal?
Yes. A plumber can install a new disposal, or replace an old one, and connect it to the drain and dishwasher line.
Is a leaking disposal an emergency?
Not usually. Switch it off, put a bowl under the leak and avoid using the sink until it's fixed. If water is reaching the floor or cabinets, call straight away.
Updated 2026-10-07