Garbage Disposals
Error codes, troubleshooting, and maintenance information for garbage disposals.
Last updated: 2026-02-24
Error Codes
Hard object stuck between impeller and grind ring, Bone or utensil jammed in chamber, Corroded grinding plate, Motor capacitor beginning to fail
Failed internal flywheel seal, Cracked housing from age or impact, Corroded shell from prolonged moisture exposure, Manufacturing defect in seal
Overload protector tripped from jamming, Tripped circuit breaker or GFCI outlet, Faulty wall switch or wiring, Burned-out motor from prolonged jam
Grease buildup in discharge pipe, Fibrous food material clogging drain, Insufficient water flow during grinding, P-trap partially blocked
Troubleshooting
View all →Common Failure Modes
Jamming from fibrous foods or bones is common but easily fixed with a hex wrench. Fatal failures usually involve internal seals breaking, causing water to leak into the motor.
Maintenance
View all →Clean with ice and salt
Run a handful of ice cubes and a half cup of coarse salt through the disposal with cold water running. The ice and salt combination scours the grinding chamber walls and dislodges stuck food debris. Follow with cold water for 30 seconds.
Freshen with citrus peels
Run lemon or orange peels through the disposal to clean residue and eliminate odors. Citrus oils cut grease buildup on the grinding components. Always run cold water while the disposal operates and for 15 seconds after.
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