Garbage disposal runs but does not grind food effectively; food remains unprocessed

Safety first: Turn OFF power before inspecting inside the disposal.

• Step 1 – Inspect grinding components: With a flashlight, look at the impeller lugs and grind ring. They should have sharp edges and visible teeth. If they appear smooth, rounded, or heavily corroded, grinding efficiency will be reduced.
• Step 2 – Check for free movement: Use a wooden spoon handle to rotate the impeller plate and ensure the lugs swing freely. Stuck lugs reduce grinding action.
• Step 3 – Adjust usage: Avoid putting hard bones, fruit pits, or large quantities of fibrous material into an older or low-horsepower GE disposal. Run plenty of cold water during use.
• Step 4 – Replace if worn: GE disposals are not designed for internal rebuild of grinding components. If grinding performance is poor and components are visibly worn, replace the disposal with a new GE model of appropriate horsepower.

Warning: Do not attempt to sharpen grinding components; this can damage the unit and create metal fragments.