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Garbage Disposal Makes Grinding or Metal Noise: Causes and Fixes
From Fair Appliance Repair Service – Sacramento's Trusted Appliance Experts
A garbage disposal is a handy kitchen companion—until it starts making loud grinding or metallic noises that sound like a power tool gone rogue. These unusual sounds can indicate anything from a stuck object to worn-out parts. In this guide, Fair Appliance Repair Service of Sacramento explains the most common causes behind noisy garbage disposals—and how to fix them safely.
🔊 Why Is My Garbage Disposal Making a Grinding or Metal Noise?
If your garbage disposal sounds like chewing metal or grinding rocks, don't ignore it—it could damage the unit or your plumbing system.
1. Foreign Objects in the Disposal
Common Symptoms:
👉 Loud clunking or rattling sounds
👉 The smell of burnt rubber or metal
Likely Causes:
👉 Utensils (spoons, forks) accidentally dropped
👉 Bones, fruit pits, or non-food items stuck in the blades
Quick Fixes:
✅ Turn off the disposal and unplug it
✅ Use tongs or pliers to remove any visible debris carefully
✅ Avoid using your hands inside the unit
2. Loose or Damaged Mounting Components
Signs:
👉 Vibrations or the unit feels loose under the sink
👉 Screeching or metal-on-metal noise
Possible Causes:
👉 The mounting ring or splash guard is worn out
👉 VInternal components are misaligned.
Solutions:
✅ Tighten the mounting ring using a wrench
✅ Inspect and replace worn gaskets or mounts
✅ Call a pro if you hear loud screeching or scraping
3. Dull or Jammed Blades
Symptoms:
👉 Noise increases with heavy food waste
👉 The unit gets stuck frequently.
Reasons:
👉 Blades are worn out from years of use
👉 Grease or food buildup causes jamming.
Fixes:
✅ Use a disposal cleaning solution or ice cubes + salt method to clean
✅ If the blades are dull or rusted, replacement is recommended
✅ Never sharpen disposal blades—they're meant to be blunt
4. Worn Motor Bearings
Signs:
👉 High-pitched whining or metal-on-metal sound
👉 Overheats or shuts off mid-use
Cause:
👉 Bearings inside the motor have degraded due to age or corrosion.
Solution:
❌ This is not a DIY fix
✅ You'll likely need to replace the entire disposal unit
✅ Call Fair Appliance Repair Service for a diagnosis
⚠️ Safety Tips Before Inspecting Your Disposal
Always unplug the unit or turn off the circuit breaker before inspection.
👉 Never put your hand inside the disposal.
👉 Use a flashlight and pliers/tongs for the safe removal of objects.
👉 If unsure—call a technician.
🛠️ Local Garbage Disposal Repair in Sacramento, CA
If your garbage disposal repair still makes strange noises or doesn't work properly, Fair Appliance Repair Service is here to help. We serve homeowners across Sacramento, Roseville, Elverta, Woodland, and surrounding areas.
Why Choose Us?
✔️ Factory-trained technicians
✔️ Affordable diagnostics and repairs
✔️ Fast response times
✔️ Honest, upfront pricing
📞 Call Now: 916-333-8388
🔄 When to Repair vs. Replace a Garbage Disposal
Condition Action
Minor noise due to object blockage Repair
Old unit with motor issues Replace
Frequent jams or leaks Replace
Unit older than 8–10 years Consider Replace
💡 Pro Tip
Avoid fibrous, hard, or non-food items to prevent noisy garbage disposals. Run cold water before and after use, and clean it monthly with baking soda and vinegar. Regular care keeps your unit humming—not howling.
