Is your garbage disposal suddenly on strike?
Don’t worry!
Go through this step-by-step guide about simple fixes to get it back in action.
Key Takeaways
- Check your circuit breaker for a blown fuse if the outlet isn’t working.
- To fix a clogged garbage disposal, find the hex wrench and put it in the socket at the bottom.
- If you’ve tried all the basic fixes and your garbage disposal still isn’t working, call a professional.
- A warning sign is if your circuit breaker keeps tripping when you turn on the disposal.
- Don’t put hard foods like bones, corn, or potato peels in the garbage disposal; they can jam the blades.
- Use baking soda and vinegar if you see buildup or smell bad odors.
- Cleaning regularly keeps your disposal in good shape and helps prevent future problems.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide: Get Your Garbage Disposal Running Again
Here are the solutions and steps to fix your garbage disposal.
By following these steps, you can fix your garbage disposal and get it working again.
1. Check For Power Issues
First things first, make sure your garbage disposal is getting power.
Check if it’s plugged in and that the outlet is working.
You can do this by plugging in another device, like a lamp.
If the outlet isn’t working, check your circuit breaker to see if a fuse has blown or a breaker has tripped.
Move on to the next step if everything looks good.
2. Reset The Disposal
Most disposals come with a reset button located on the bottom or side.
If your unit stopped suddenly, it might have overheated.
Simply press the reset button (it’s usually red) and see if that gets it working again.
If you hear a humming noise after resetting, that’s a good sign.
It means it’s trying to work.
3. Clear A Jam Using A Hex Wrench (“L” Shaped Tool)
Sometimes, food can get stuck and jam the disposal.
To fix this, locate the hex wrench and insert it into the socket at the bottom of the unit.
Turn the wrench back and forth to free up any stuck pieces.
Once you’ve cleared the jam, try turning the disposal on again.
4. Remove And Clear Clogs
If your disposal is still not working, there might be a clog in the pipes.
Start by turning off the disposal and checking the drain.
Use a plunger to try to remove any blockages.
If that doesn’t work, you may need to disconnect the trap under the sink and clean it out.
Make sure to have a bucket handy to catch any water.
5. Check For Leaks
After you’ve done all the above, check for any leaks around the disposal and the pipes.
Look for water pooling under the sink and any damp spots.
If you find a leak, it might be a loose connection or a damaged part.
Tightening the connections and replacing any broken parts can solve the problem.
When To Call A Professional
If you’ve tried all the usual fixes and your garbage disposal still won’t work, it’s time to call a professional.
A professional can find the problem and fix it before it gets worse.
This can save you time and money in the long run.
Check for jams, reset the unit, and ensure it’s plugged in.
If none of these steps help, a bigger issue could be like a damaged motor.
Also, if your garbage disposal shows signs of electrical problems, it’s important to call a professional.
Look out for these signs:
- Strange smells
- Burning
- Sparks when you use it.
Another red flag is if your circuit breaker keeps tripping whenever you turn on the disposal.
These issues can mean a problem with the wiring and parts inside the unit.
Electrical issues can be dangerous, so it’s best to let an expert handle them to keep you and your home safe.
Contact us at OP Plumbing Hub for excellent services.
Prevention Tips For Garbage Disposal
To keep your garbage disposal working well, it’s important to use it correctly.
Always run cold water while using the disposal.
This helps food move through and prevents clogs.
Avoid putting hard and fibrous foods in it, like bones, corn, and potato peels, as these can jam the blades.
Also, avoid grease or oils, as they can solidify and cause blockages.
Stick to soft foods and small scraps for the best results.
Regular Cleaning And Maintenance
Here are some easy tips to keep your garbage disposal running smoothly:-
- Cleaning your garbage disposal regularly can help it stay fresh and work properly.
- Once a week, run cold water through it while it’s on.
- You can also grind up a few ice cubes and a slice of lemon to help clean the blades and reduce odors.
- Use baking soda and vinegar if you notice any buildup and bad smells.
Pour half a cup of baking soda down the disposal, followed by half a cup of vinegar.
Let it sit for a few minutes, then run water through it to flush everything out.
Regular cleaning will keep your disposal in great shape and help prevent problems down the line.
Conclusion
This article is a step-by-step guide on what to do if your garbage disposal stops working.
When to seek help from a professional has also been discussed.
Preventive measures have also been discussed following regular cleaning and maintenance tips. Contact us at OP Plumbing Hub for expert services and advice.