GE
High Inrush Current / Undersized Circuit or Voltage Drop
Garbage disposal causes lights to dim significantly when starting
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Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
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Possible Causes
Disposal and other appliances on same circuit, Long wire run with small gauge wire, Weak breaker, Motor starting under heavy load
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: Turn OFF power before opening any electrical boxes.
- Step 1 – Reduce starting load: Always run cold water and ensure the disposal chamber is mostly empty before switching it on to reduce starting torque.
- Step 2 – Check circuit loading: Identify what else is on the same circuit (microwave, refrigerator, etc.). Ideally, the disposal should be on a dedicated 15A or 20A circuit.
- Step 3 – Inspect breaker and connections: Have an electrician check the breaker, panel connections, and wire gauge for proper sizing and tightness.
- Step 4 – Consider circuit upgrade: If voltage drop is excessive due to long runs or undersized wire, upgrading the circuit may be necessary.
Warning: Persistent dimming can indicate wiring issues that may pose a fire risk; consult an electrician.
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Repair Difficulty
Hard
4/5
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