Garbage disposal hums but nothing else...

[Sierra]

We have an insinkerator. It hums and we have tried using the allen wrench. We've also cut the circut breaker and tried the reset button. All we get is a hummng sound. The only time the reset button worked was when we left the switch on and it automatically stopped humming. Then we cut the circuit breaker and the reset button was enabled. Otherwise it was of no use. However, the disposal still just hums and nothing spins. Both the blades and the base unit which grinds rotates freely with no problem. Can we spare this unit or do we have to replace it?? Please help!

[Dan O.]

** It hums... We've cut the circuit breaker and tried the reset button. All we get is a humming sound. **

All either of those things would do is control power to the unit. If it is humming, it has to be getting power so neither of those things as related to your problem.

** The only time the reset button worked was when we left the switch on and it automatically stopped humming. **

Yes, you forced the unit's overload protector to trip by leaving it powered when it was not operational.

** we have tried using the allen wrench **

... and?

Could it be turned or couldn't it??


Dan O.
www.Appliance411.com
The Appliance Information Site
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[HayZee518]

sounds like the start winding is shot - burned out.

[pushkins]

Or it's Jammed.

[Dan O.]

If the OP would return and answer the question, "Could it be turned [with the wrench] or couldn't it?" we could say which possibility is most likely with some certainty.

JMO

Dan O.
www.Appliance411.com
The Appliance Information Site
=D~~~~~~

[Sierra]

The allen wrench turned freely in both directions. There was nothing jammed or stuck. The water drains freely too.

[Dan O.]

** [the disposal just hums and nothing spins.] The allen wrench turned freely in both directions. **

Than there is likely a problem in the motor windings as HayZee suggested or the start switch mechanism. Have you ever noticed any leaking from the bottom of the unit? Any signs of rusting there?

A motor winding problem would not likely be worth having repaired, there's a slim chance a switch problem might me if it is a near top of the disposal model. If the disposal is one of the cheaper models it is unlikely to be worthwhile to have repaired with your stated symptoms and it's likely a good time to shop for a replacement.

You can find some disposer purchasing tips at the following link:

LINK > The Purchase: Productopia Tips: Disposals

PS. Check the unit's warranty. Some top of the line In-Sink-Erator models had up to a 10-years warranty on them. You may be able to date your unit at the following link:

LINK > How old is my appliance?

JFYI

Dan O.
www.Appliance411.com
The Appliance Information Site
=D~~~~~~

[Sierra]

We haven't seen a leak or anything of that sort. Per the insinkerator website the disposal was manufactured 6 years ago and only has a 4 year warranty. So my guess is that we should probably replace it rather than pay to get it fixed. I just hope my husband knows how to replace it. The wires underneath doesn't seem to complicated but it goes behind the dishwasher and I'm afraid it might not be as cut and dry as I originally suspected! I do appreciate all the great advice! (This is a great website!!)

[Dan O.]

** my guess is that we should probably replace it rather than pay to get it fixed. **

That would be my guess.

** I just hope my husband knows how to replace it. **

ISE models are usually not very difficult to replace provided; 1. you buy another ISE made model (the mounting varies between makes) and 2. one of equivalent size and style to the current one so minimal (if any) plumbing chances will be necessary. You can see some of the brand names ISE sells there products under at the following link:

LINK > Who makes what Appliance Brand?

JMO

Dan O.
www.Appliance411.com
The Appliance Information Site
=D~~~~~~