Definitely agree with checking the mounting ring first. Another common issue I've run into is debris or small objects getting wedged between the blades and the grinding chamber wall—coins, screws, even bottle caps. It's surprising how often something tiny can cause such a loud racket. Usually, just unplugging it and carefully fishing out whatever's stuck solves the problem without needing replacements or repairs... saves a lot of hassle.
Good call on checking for small objects first—it's amazing what tenants manage to drop down there. Had a tenant once who swore up and down the disposal was shot, grinding loudly and barely spinning. Turns out their kid had tossed a plastic army man down the drain... poor little guy didn't stand a chance. Anyway, unplugging it and fishing stuff out usually does the trick, but if you're still hearing noises afterward, it's worth double-checking the blades themselves. Sometimes they get bent or dull from grinding up tougher things like bones or fruit pits. A quick reset button push underneath can help too—saved me more than one unnecessary replacement over the years. Good luck sorting it out, sounds like you're already on the right track.
"Sometimes they get bent or dull from grinding up tougher things like bones or fruit pits."
Good point about the blades—had a similar issue myself after someone tried grinding avocado pits (why, I'll never know...). If they're bent, gently nudging them back into place with pliers can help, but if they're really dull, replacing them might be your best bet.
Had a similar issue when someone tried grinding chicken bones after a BBQ... sounded like a cement mixer full of rocks. Ended up pulling the whole thing apart—turns out bits of bone got wedged underneath the blades. Cleaning that out helped way more than bending blades back.
Good call on checking under the blades—bones are notorious for jamming things up. Couple quick thoughts:
- Did you notice if the disposal's motor was overheating at all?
- Also, any weird smells after clearing it out? Sometimes bone fragments can damage seals and cause leaks later on...
