Garbage disposal runs but does not grind food effectively (food remains in chamber)

Safety first: Turn OFF power at the breaker before placing any tool into the disposal.

• Step 1 – Inspect the grinding chamber: Shine a flashlight into the Whirlaway disposal. Look for frozen swivel impellers that do not move freely and a smooth, worn shredder ring.
• Step 2 – Free the impellers: Use a wooden stick to gently push each impeller. They should swing freely. If stuck, work them back and forth until they move.
• Step 3 – Clean buildup: Mineral and grease buildup can reduce grinding. Pour a mixture of ice cubes and coarse salt into the disposal, restore power, run cold water, and pulse the unit for 20–30 seconds to scour the grind ring.
• Step 4 – Re-test grinding: Try a small amount of soft food waste. If grinding is still poor and the ring appears smooth or damaged, the grinding components are worn.
• Step 5 – Plan replacement: On Whirlaway disposals, the shredder ring and impellers are integral to the grinding chamber and not sold separately. Replace the entire disposal unit.