A disposal that hums but does not spin, leaks under the sink or backs up the drain is a kitchen emergency for anyone who cooks. Our line is open 24/7 and we book same-day appointments when available.
Turn off the disposal switch and the power to it before you reach in. Never put your hand inside. If the sink is backing up, stop running water into it and call.
Urgent situationsCommon disposal problems
Humming but not turning
A jam is the usual cause. A plumber can free the flywheel from below.
Dead, no sound at all
A tripped reset button, a tripped breaker or a failed motor can be the cause.
Water under the sink
A leak at the sink flange, the dishwasher inlet or the housing can all look the same.
A sink that drains slowly
Buildup in the trap or the drain line downstream of the disposal can cause a backup.
What a disposal handles and what it does not
InSinkErator, a major maker, advises running cold water while the disposal runs and for about 15 seconds afterward to flush waste through the drain. The same guidance says to avoid putting grease, fats and oils down the drain. These simple habits prevent most clogs.
Fibrous foods such as celery and corn husks, starchy items such as potato peels in quantity, coffee grounds in bulk and bones are common culprits. Grease cools and coats the pipe, which is why a kitchen drain that keeps backing up may need a deeper cleaning. See hydro jetting for lines with buildup.
Repair or replaceRepair or replace the disposal
Repair fits when
- A jam is the only problem.
- The leak is at a seal or the sink flange.
- The unit is fairly new.
- The motor spins freely once cleared.
Replacement fits when
- The housing is cracked or corroded.
- The motor is burned out.
- Jams keep returning.
- The unit is old and undersized for your use.
What a disposal installation involves
Disconnect
Power is shut off and the old unit is removed from the sink flange.
Mount
The new mounting assembly is attached under the sink.
Connect
The drain, the dishwasher inlet if present and the power are connected.
Test
We run water and the unit to check for leaks and noise.
Installation needs a nearby outlet or a hardwired connection, and the drain must be compatible. Tell us whether you have a dishwasher so we can plan the knockout plug and the connection.
Related workWhen the sink drain is the real problem
Slow kitchen drains are not always the disposal. A partial clog in the drain line, a lack of venting or buildup in the line may be to blame. Drain cleaning clears the line, and a leaky faucet or supply line near the sink is a separate fix. See faucet repair for that.
CareCare guidelines from the maker
According to InSinkErator's care guidance, you should keep grease, fats and oils out of the drain and run cold water during and after use. A disposal that is used well lasts longer and jams less. The guidance also recommends against putting large bones and fibrous scraps in the unit.
PriceWhat disposal repair costs and what changes the price
We take disposal calls across 55316 in Champlin and nearby ZIP codes, including 55303 in Anoka, 55433 in Coon Rapids and 55443 in Brooklyn Park.
FAQsQuestions About Garbage Disposal Repair & Installation
Do you handle disposal emergencies at night or on weekends in Champlin?
Yes. The line is open 24/7. We book same-day appointments when available and tell you the price before work starts.
My disposal hums but will not spin. What is wrong?
It is usually jammed. Turn off the power and call. A plumber can free the flywheel safely.
Can I put grease down the disposal?
No. Grease and oils coat the drain and cause backups. InSinkErator advises avoiding them.
Should I run water while it works?
Yes. Cold water during use and for about 15 seconds afterward helps flush waste.
Can you install a disposal I bought?
Yes. Tell us the model and whether you have a dishwasher.