Waste disposers don't crack down very often but when they do, you’ll notice it. Don't run out and buy another one just yet. In most situations, the issue has to do with either something being trapped down in it or a wiring issue. So, let's look at how your waste disposer is acting.
When you turn the switch, does it make noise or does it just sit there quietly? If it does not do anything at all, then it may be possible that either it is a wiring issue or it needs a new motor. But, there may be another reason... there is a little red button on most disposers that reset button.
Sometimes, the motor will close it down to keep from losing up if something get's in there that the waste disposer can't manage.
Before going any further, please be sure the power is shut off for safety reasons. When you are ready, you will find the button on the end of the disposer unit. Push the button until it makes a simply clicking noise and if you're fortunate, your disposal will be like new again. Turn the power back on and check your switch. Does it work?
If your waste disposer is not being silent, but definitely not regular, then you will just have to check a little further. Again, make sure the power source is shut off. Then reach down within the waste disposer and feel around. Usually you will find the spoon or other item that dropped down into the waste disposer. After eliminating the item, your waste disposer should be working again.
If your disposal is humming or buzzing sound instead of a huge clanking noise, then you may have something that is trapped in the grinding part of the unit. You will need a hexagonal wrench (that came along with your waste disposer when you purchased it). If you don't have one, check under the drain and take a look at the hexagonal opening. You are going to need to buy (or borrow) a hex wrench that suits the size the hole. Once you have the wrench and have made sure the power is off, then you can use the hexagonal wrench to work the grinding part back and forth until it switch quickly. Once you have done that, turn the power on and check your disposal. Hopefully, it is now operating.
If your waste disposer does not make any does nothing even after resetting the red button, then most likely you have a wiring problem. Again, switch off the power and then go up beneath drain with a multi-meter and test the voltage that is coming into the unit. If it shows up the correct voltage (110-120 volts) then you are going to need a new waste disposer.
