How to fix your ‘Garbage’ disposal
7/17/20232 min read
A garbage disposal unit is a handy appliance in any kitchen, but it can be frustrating when it stops working. If you're experiencing problems with your garbage disposal, there are things you can do to fix them before calling in a professional. In this blog post, we'll go over some common issues and offer tips on how to fix your garbage disposal.
Common Issues
Clogged Disposal: This is probably the most common issue with garbage disposals. If your disposal is clogged, it can cause a backup in your sink and prevent the unit from working properly. The good news is that this is usually an easy fix.
Jammed Disposal: If you hear a humming noise but the blades aren't spinning, it's likely that something is jamming the disposal. This could be caused by a foreign object, or it could be due to the blades themselves becoming dull or damaged.
Leaking Disposal you water leaks from your disposal, it's important to address the issue right away. Leaks can be caused by a variety of things, including loose connections, cracks in the unit, or worn-out gaskets.
Dis Won't Turn On: If your disposal won't turn on at all, it could be due to an electrical issue or a problem with the switch.
Solutions
Clogged Disposal: To fix the clogged disposal, start by turning off the power to the unit. Then, use a flashlight to look inside and see if you can see the clog. If you can see it, use tongs or pliers to remove it. If you can't see the clog, try pouring hot water down the drain to loosen it up.
Jammed Disposal: If your disposal is jammed, turn off the power to the unit and use a long object like a broom handle to try and dislodge the object that's causing the jam. If this doesn't work, you may need to remove the unit and manually remove the obstruction.
Leaking Disposal: To fix a leaking disposal, start by turning off the power to the unit. Then, inspect the unit for any cracks or damage. If you find any, you may need to replace the unit. If there are no visible cracks or damage, check the connections to make sure they're tight. If they're loose, try tightening them with a wrench. If this doesn't work, you may need to replace the gaskets.
Disposal Won't Turn On: If your disposal won't turn on, start by checking the electrical connections. Make sure the unit is plugged in and that the circuit breaker hasn't tripped. If everything looks good, try resetting the unit by pressing the reset button on the bottom of the unit.
Prevention
To prevent future problems with your garbage disposal, follow these tips:
Don't put non-food items down on the disposal
Avoid putting hard or fibrous foods down the disposal
Grind small amounts of food at a time
Run cold water while grinding food to help flush it through the system
Clean your disposal regularly by grinding ice cubes and citrus peels
Conclusion
A broken garbage disposal can be a real headache, but with a little bit of know-how, you can fix many common issues yourself. If you're not comfortable doing so or if the problem is more serious, it's always a good idea to call in a professional. To prevent future problems, remember to use your disposal properly and clean it regularly.