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Why Does My Garbage Disposal Rattle?

The garbage disposal is a noisy little appliance. Heavy, sharp blades spun by a powerful motor can chop discarded food with clamorous vigor. But if the disposal is rattling or shaking in its position, chances are the machine is jammed or a loose screw is clattering against the machine.
  1. Blockage

    • An exceptionally hard piece of food, a bone or even a piece of silverware gone awry in the drain will cause the disposal to rattle loudly. Turn off the power to the disposal and check for a blockage by carefully inserting a pair of metal pliers or tongs into the disposal opening.

    Loose Connection

    • Over time, screws that secure the disposal to the underside of the sink may come loose. Check the connections and tighten them with a screwdriver.

    Broken Part

    • The garbage disposal may rattle from a broken blade or broken motor component inside the unit. In such a case, the disposal must be removed from the sink and taken out for repair or replacement.