Anker 2248 Disposal Not Working? Try This First [2026]

Quick Fix Summary

Most issues with the Anker garbage disposal Model 2248 are solved by pressing the reset button on the bottom, clearing a jam using the hex-wrench port, and verifying power at the outlet or GFCI. If the unit hums but does not spin, disconnect power, manually free the grinding plate, then reset and test with cold water running.

These quick checks address the most common symptoms: a silent unit, a hum without grind, and slow draining. Follow the full steps below for a thorough diagnosis.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting

Before you start

Always turn off power at the wall switch and unplug the unit, or switch off the breaker if hardwired. Wear cut-resistant gloves and eye protection. Never put your hand into the grinding chamber while power is available.

1. Confirm power and reset the overload.

   Plug a lamp or outlet tester into the disposal's receptacle to confirm 120 V power. If no power, check your GFCI outlet and the kitchen circuit breaker. Press the disposal's reset button (usually a red or black button centered on the bottom of the housing). If it clicks, wait 30 seconds and try the switch again with cold water running.

2. Clear a jam with the bottom hex port.

   If the motor hums but the plate does not spin, a jam is likely. At the bottom center of the Model 2248, insert a 1/4 inch hex key into the service port. Turn the key back and forth several times to free the grinding plate. From the top, shine a flashlight and use tongs to remove any foreign objects (bones, utensils, fruit pits). Never reach in with fingers. After clearing, press the reset button and test.

3. Verify the wall switch and wiring.

   If the unit is silent and the reset did not help, check the wall switch. With power off at the breaker, remove the switch cover and inspect for loose wires. Tighten terminal screws and ensure the hot feed and switched leg are secure. For hardwired disposals, open the junction box under the sink and confirm wire nuts are tight and the strain relief clamp is secure. Restore power and retest.

4. Check the splash guard and loading habits.

   Excess vibration or food blowback often indicates a worn splash guard or overloading. The Model 2248 uses a rubber splash guard at the sink opening. If it is torn, hardened, or missing, replace it. Avoid feeding fibrous foods (celery, corn husks) and large batches. Run strong cold water before, during, and 15 seconds after operation to move debris through the trap.

5. Fix slow drains and standing water.

   Slow draining is usually a plumbing restriction, not the motor. First, run water and let the disposal clear the chamber. If water still pools, plunge the sink (cover adjacent sink if double-bowl). Next, disconnect power and remove the P-trap with a bucket beneath; clear sludge and rinse. Reassemble, ensure the trap's compression nuts are snug, and test. If your dishwasher connects to the disposal, confirm the dishwasher knockout plug was removed during installation and the hose is not kinked.

6. Eliminate odors and residue.

   Odors come from biofilm on the splash guard and chamber walls. Scrub the splash guard with a brush and dish soap. Run a cleaning cycle: pour 1 cup baking soda into the chamber, add 1 cup vinegar, let foam for 5 minutes, then grind a tray of ice cubes with 1/2 cup rock salt while running cold water. This abrades residue and polishes the grind ring without chemicals.

7. Address leaks at three common points.

   Leaks typically occur at: 1) the sink flange, 2) the discharge elbow to the drain, and 3) the dishwasher inlet. For the sink flange, remove the disposal and reseal the flange using 3/8 inch thick plumber's putty under the rim, then tighten the mounting assembly evenly in a star pattern. For the discharge elbow, replace the gasket and ensure the screws are snug (do not overtighten). For the dishwasher inlet, secure the hose clamp and ensure the barb is not cracked.

8. Reduce noise and vibration.

   If the disposal is unusually loud, check that the unit is fully locked into the mounting ring; rotate clockwise until the tabs align. Ensure the cabinet floor is not resonating; add a rubber pad under the mounting brackets if needed. A worn splash guard also amplifies noise. Inside the chamber, confirm the two impellers on the plate swing freely; stuck impellers can cause rattling and poor grinding. Free them by turning via the hex port and flushing with hot soapy water.

9. Test load without food to isolate electrical issues.

   With water running, flip the switch and listen. If the motor does not engage and no hum is heard, suspect the switch, outlet, or internal overload. If it trips immediately, the motor may be overheating or the rotor is binding. Allow a 5 minute cool-down, press reset, and retest. Persistent trips indicate a failing motor or capacitor; contact support for service.

10. Confirm installation basics.

    The Anker garbage disposal Model 2248 should be on a dedicated 120 V, 60 Hz, 15 A circuit with a GFCI-protected outlet. The mounting ring must be compatible with your sink flange. The dishwasher knockout must be removed if a dishwasher hose is attached. Incorrect installation causes poor performance and leaks, so review the manual if you recently installed or moved the unit.

Pro tips

• Always run cold water during grinding; hot water can liquefy fats that later solidify in the trap.
• Feed small amounts, keep the splash guard seated, and avoid stringy or starchy loads that can tangle or form paste.
• Schedule a monthly ice-and-salt clean to maintain sharpness and reduce odors.

Replacement Parts

If troubleshooting points to wear or damage, these common parts for the Anker garbage disposal Model 2248 can be replaced at home. Always match parts to your exact model and mounting system.

• Splash guard / sink baffle: Stops debris blowback and reduces noise. Replace if cracked or stiff. Shop splash guards
• Mounting ring and sink flange kit: Includes flange, ring, and mounting screws. Use fresh plumber's putty during reinstallation. Shop mounting kits
• Discharge elbow and gasket: Fixes leaks where the disposal exits to the drain. Shop discharge kits
• Reset switch / overload protector: If the reset button fails to latch, the thermal overload may need replacement. Shop reset switches
• Power cord kit: For units that are corded. Includes strain relief and wire connectors. Shop power cord kits
• Impeller and grinding plate assembly: If grinding performance is poor even after cleaning, the internal plate may be worn. This is a more advanced repair. Shop grinding assemblies
• Dishwasher inlet hose and clamp: Replaces cracked hoses or weak clamps to stop leaks. Shop dishwasher inlet parts

When replacing parts, disconnect power and water, support the unit while working under the sink, and tighten fasteners evenly. If you are unsure about electrical connections or sealing the sink flange, hire a licensed technician. Proper installation and routine cleaning will keep your Anker garbage disposal Model 2248 running smoothly and safely.