If your garbage disposal is making a loud noise, it could be due to a jam, loose components, or worn-out parts. Ignoring a noisy disposal can lead to bigger damage or even a complete failure. Follow this guide to diagnose and fix your disposal fast!
📥 Download the Printable Noise Troubleshooting Checklist
Why Is My Garbage Disposal Making Loud Noises?
🚨 Foreign Objects Inside the Disposal – Silverware, bones, or hard food waste can get stuck.
🚨 Loose or Worn-Out Components – Mounting screws, blades, or impellers may have come loose.
🚨 Motor Issues or Overheating – A failing motor can cause excessive noise.
🚨 Dull Blades Grinding Food Improperly – Worn-out blades create unnecessary noise and inefficiency.
If you hear any of these sounds, use the step-by-step troubleshooting guide below.
📥 Download the Step-by-Step Noise Fix Guide
Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing a Noisy Garbage Disposal
Step 1 - Turn Off Power for Safety
✅ Unplug the disposal or switch off the power at the circuit breaker.
✅ Never put your hand inside the disposal without turning off the power.
Step 2 - Check for Foreign Objects Inside the Disposal
🔧 Use tongs or pliers to remove any foreign objects like bones, silverware, or plastic.
🔧 Shine a flashlight inside to look for jammed debris.
🚨 Never use your hands inside the disposal!
Step 3 - Rotate the Flywheel to Remove Jams
🔧 Insert an Allen wrench into the hex hole on the bottom of the disposal.
🔧 Turn it clockwise and counterclockwise to free stuck debris.
🔧 Press the reset button after clearing the jam and restore power
📥 Download the Jam Removal Guide
Step 4 - Tighten Loose Mounting Screws or Blades
🔧 Check the mounting assembly to ensure it is tightly secured under the sink.
🔧 Tighten any loose screws on the impeller or grinding chamber
📞 Schedule a Repair if Blades Are Worn Out
Step 5 - Lubricate & Clean the Disposal Blades
🔧 Grind ice cubes & rock salt to clean and sharpen the blades.
🔧 Run cold water while grinding to flush out debris.
📥 Download the Blade Maintenance Guide
Step 6 - If Noise Persists, Inspect for Motor Issues
🔧 If the disposal still makes excessive noise, the motor may be failing.
🔧 Burning smells or constant overheating indicate a motor issue.
🔧 In this case, it’s better to replace the unit than repair it.
📞 Get a Quote for a New Disposal Installation🔧 Grind ice cubes & rock salt to clean and sharpen the blades.
🔧 Run cold water while grinding to flush out debris.
📥 Download the Blade Maintenance Guide
How to Prevent a Noisy Garbage Disposal
✅ Run cold water before and after use to flush food waste properly.
✅ Avoid grinding bones, silverware, or fibrous food like celery and potato peels.
✅ Clean the disposal weekly with vinegar and baking soda.
✅ Inspect the mounting screws and blades regularly to prevent loose components.
🚨 NEVER do these:
❌ Put metal, glass, or plastic into the disposal.
❌ Use hot water while grinding fatty foods (this can cause grease buildup).
❌ Ignore unusual noises—fix them before they cause motor failure!
📥 Download the Garbage Disposal Maintenance Guide
Watch a Step-by-Step Video Tutorial
📹 Watch How to Fix a Noisy Garbage Disposal
FAQs About Garbage Disposal Clogs
A metallic grinding noise means something is stuck in the grinding chamber—check for silverware or hard food particles.
A rattling disposal can be caused by loose impeller blades or mounting screws. Tighten them and remove any stuck objects.
If the disposal is louder than usual but still grinds, it may need cleaning, lubrication, or an impeller adjustment.
Yes! You can remove jams, tighten screws, and clean the blades to reduce noise. However, if the motor is failing, replacement is recommended.
If your disposal is over 8-10 years old and making loud noises despite troubleshooting, it may be time for a replacement.
📥 Download the Full Noise Troubleshooting Guide
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