Waste Maid
Overheating Motor / Slipping Components
Garbage disposal runs but emits a burning smell
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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 grinding plate, Failing motor windings, Foreign object causing friction against housing
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety First: Turn OFF the disposal immediately at the switch and breaker. Do not continue to run a unit that smells like burning.
- Allow to cool: Let the unit cool for at least 20–30 minutes.
- Check for jams: Use the jam-buster wrench on the bottom shaft and ensure it turns freely. Remove any foreign objects from the chamber with pliers.
- Inspect for visible damage: Look under the sink for signs of melted plastic or discoloration on the housing.
- Test briefly: Restore power and run the disposal for only a few seconds with water. If the burning smell returns quickly, the motor is likely damaged.
- Replace the unit: Overheated or burned motor windings are not repairable; replace the Waste Maid disposal.
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Repair Difficulty
Medium
3/5
Required Part
Motor Assembly
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