Garbage disposal fault or drain clog?

Listen and observe without reaching inside

A humming unit, a silent unit, and a sink that holds water describe different symptoms. Keep hands out of the disposal and stop using a jammed or leaking appliance.

Check the pattern

Is only the disposal side affected, or do both sink basins drain slowly? Does water appear in the cabinet? Tell the plumber if the dishwasher is involved or any chemical drain product has been used.

Let the diagnosis guide the work

A working disposal will not clear every restriction farther along the drain. Conversely, replacing a drain connection will not solve an internal appliance fault. Ask which issue the recommended work addresses.