GE
Overheating Motor / Electrical Overload
Garbage disposal emits a burning smell when running
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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
Prolonged operation under heavy load, Jammed or partially jammed impellers, Failing motor windings, Foreign object causing friction
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: Immediately turn OFF the disposal and switch off the breaker if you smell burning. Do not continue to run the unit.
- Step 1 – Allow cooling: Let the disposal cool for at least 15–20 minutes. Press the red reset button if it has tripped.
- Step 2 – Check for jams: With power OFF, inspect the grinding chamber for foreign objects and use the bottom hex socket to ensure the impeller plate rotates freely.
- Step 3 – Test briefly: Restore power and run the disposal for only a few seconds with water. If the burning smell returns quickly, the motor windings are likely damaged.
- Step 4 – Replace unit: A disposal with a persistent burning smell should be replaced to avoid electrical failure or fire risk.
Warning: Do not ignore burning odors; they indicate overheating or insulation breakdown.
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Repair Difficulty
Medium
3/5
Required Part
Complete GE Disposal Unit
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