Leaky Garbage Disposal
Leaks can occur at any part of your garbage disposal, including the top, side, and bottom, affecting the dishwasher, the rest of the plumbing system, or the drainpipe. Depending on the source of the leak, the remedy could range from changing an O-ring and tightening some parts to performing a more complex and expensive leak repair.
Will Not Drain
A correctly functioning garbage disposal quickly grinds up food and allows liquids to drain swiftly. If the sink starts to fill with water and food, the blades might be blunt or there might be a blockage deep in the pipe.
Humming Sound
When your garbage disposal hums but doesn't do much else, it could be either stuck or not powerful enough to dispose of food waste quickly.
Foul Odors
Over time, food scraps can build up in your garbage disposal, producing a distasteful odor. This isn't a sign of a malfunction necessarily, just that it needs thorough cleaning. If the odors persist after cleaning, you might need to disassemble the compactor.
Leaks Into the Dishwasher
If your garbage disposal is linked to your dishwasher, there's a risk of leakage into the dishwasher. This type of leakage often implicates a faulty dishwasher line installation.
Unusual Noises
If your garbage disposal makes unusual noises, such as metal grinding, there's likely an issue. The cause could be something caught in the blades, a missing piece, or a misplaced part.