Listen and observe
When a disposal needs attention
Humming, rattling, unusual grinding sounds or a unit that shuts off unexpectedly are reasons to stop using it and request help. Food that no longer breaks down properly and persistent odors are also worth mentioning. Avoid repeatedly trying a disposal that is jammed or not operating normally.
You do not need to open the unit or reach into it to describe the problem. Tell us what happened just before the issue, whether the disposal runs at all and whether the sink still drains. Those observations give the plumber a useful starting point.
- Unexpected humming, grinding or rattling
- The unit refusing to start or stopping during use
- Food waste remaining in the sink
- Persistent odors or repeated backups
