Garbage disposals are very handy to have, but when they’re not functioning correctly, they can cause stinky messes in your kitchen. If you rely on your garbage disposal and it’s not working, there are some things you can try to fix yourself before you call a professional to fix it for you. These are the most common garbage disposal problems:
No Power
If you turn on the switch that powers the disposal and nothing happens, check the outlet. There is likely an electrical problem stopping the current from getting to the disposal. Make sure that the disposal is plugged in. Then, check the breaker. If the breaker is working and the disposal is plugged in, you may need to have a licensed electrician check the outlet and the wiring.
It Needs A Reset
A very common situation is that something has tripped the built-in circuit breaker in the disposal, and it needs to be reset. All you need to do to fix this is push the reset button on the bottom of the disposal unit. If you’re not sure where the reset button is look at the manual for your disposal unit. The reset button should be clearly marked on the diagram of the unit.
Jammed Impeller
If the disposal turns on but the motor hums when you turn it on, and it doesn’t actually grind anything up, there’s an impeller or flywheel problem. This can burn out the motor on the disposal. In almost all cases, if the disposal is humming and not grinding, there’s something blocking it or jammed into the impeller. Turn off the power to the disposal at the switch and turn off the circuit breaker. Then, use a hex wrench to turn the flywheel and clear any obstructions. Turn the power back on, run some water, and then turn on the disposal to clear any debris left in the disposal.
Slow Draining
Just like a sink, the disposal can become clogged with debris over time. To clear the disposal and get it draining correctly again, you will have to take apart the drain trap and the discharge pipe, clear the clog, and put the drain trap and discharge pipe back.
Leaks
Leaks are a very common disposal problem. The disposal could have a leak at any of several different points of contact with the plumbing under the sink. But leaks are easy to check for. Check the cabinet under the sink to see if you can see any water leaking. Then, run your hand over the pipes to see if you can feel where water is dripping out. If you can’t find the source of the leak, you may need professional help to find it and fix it.
Fast, Professional Disposal Repair Service Is A Call Away
If you need help fixing your garbage disposal or you need a professional to find out why your disposal isn’t working and fix it call Yogi’s Drain Service today. We’ll determine the root cause of your garbage disposal issue and restore it to working order. Don’t let these questions about your garbage disposal linger – request a quote today to get them solved!
