A noisy waste disposal can disrupt your kitchen routine and may signal underlying issues, such as a jam, loose components, or wear and tear. While some noise is normal during operation, excessive or unusual sounds like grinding, rattling, or squealing should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage.
Common Types of Noises and Their Causes
1. Grinding or Rattling
• Objects like utensils, bones, or debris may be stuck inside the disposal.
2. Humming Without Grinding
• The motor is running, but the impellers are jammed or not functioning properly.
3. Squealing or High-Pitched Whining
• Bearings or internal components may be worn or damaged.
4. Thumping or Vibrating
• Loose mounting hardware or misaligned components can cause excessive movement.
5. Buzzing
• Often indicates a power issue, such as the impeller being unable to move.
Steps to Diagnose and Fix a Noisy Waste Disposal
1. Turn Off Power
• Unplug the unit or turn off the circuit breaker to ensure safety before inspecting the disposal.
2. Inspect the Interior
• Look for Foreign Objects: Use a flashlight to check for utensils, bones, or other debris inside the disposal.
• Remove Debris Safely: Use tongs or pliers to extract any stuck items—never use your hands.
3. Use an Allen Wrench to Free Jams
• Insert an Allen wrench into the hexagonal socket on the bottom of the disposal.
• Rotate the wrench back and forth to loosen jammed impellers.
4. Tighten Mounting Hardware
• Check the mounting bracket under the sink and tighten any loose screws to reduce vibrations and thumping noises.
5. Inspect the Impellers
• If the impellers are worn or misaligned, they may cause grinding or squealing. Consult your user manual to determine if they can be replaced or repaired.
6. Check for Loose or Worn Bearings
• Unusual squealing or grinding sounds may indicate worn motor bearings. A failing motor often requires professional repair or unit replacement.
7. Clear the Drain Pipe
• If the noise is accompanied by poor drainage, disconnect the drain pipe and remove any clogs before reconnecting.
8. Test the Disposal
• Restore power and run water while turning on the disposal to test for noise reduction.
Preventative Maintenance Tips
1. Avoid Hard or Fibrous Items
• Do not grind bones, fruit pits, or fibrous materials like celery or corn husks to prevent jams and damage.
2. Clean Regularly
• Clean the disposal with a mixture of vinegar and baking soda, followed by hot water, to remove buildup and odors.
3. Run Cold Water During Use
• Always run cold water to help flush debris and prevent overheating.
4. Grind Small Ice Cubes
• Grinding ice cubes occasionally can help clean the impellers and remove debris.
5. Inspect Periodically
• Check for loose mounting hardware, worn components, or buildup that could contribute to noise.
When to Call a Professional
• The noise persists despite clearing debris and tightening components.
• The motor produces squealing or buzzing sounds, indicating potential failure.
• Impellers or internal components appear damaged or worn.
• You’re unable to locate or resolve the source of the noise safely.
Conclusion
A noisy waste disposal often results from debris, loose hardware, or worn parts. Clearing jams, tightening mounts, and regular maintenance can resolve most issues and prevent future problems. For persistent or severe noise, consulting a professional ensures a safe and effective repair, keeping your disposal running smoothly and quietly.