Steps to Take Before Calling for Garbage Disposal Repair
Several problems can happen with a garbage disposal, some of which are easy to handle yourself and others that may require more training and tools
Garbage disposals are basic, uncomplicated devices. Their basic design is a motor system that spins rotating blades under the sink to cut and grind up food and other waste. However, due to their frequent use, they can become clogged or jammed. Since they are used in conjunction with one of the most frequently used items in the house, the kitchen sink, it is essential to keep the garbage disposal working. Here are a few tips to remember.
Several problems can happen with a garbage disposal, some of which are easy to handle yourself and others that may require more training and tools. You must determine which ones you can do and choose to do. Under no circumstances should you take any unnecessary risks, even if you are qualified to do so. Below are some typical items you may come across:
Overheating
If you turn on your garbage disposal and hear no sounds from the unit, not even a humming sound, then there is a good chance the unit has overheated and tripped its safety switch off. Step number one is to locate the "reset" button, typically on the underside of the unit. Verify the garbage disposal power is off, press the "reset" button, then recheck the functioning of the unit. If this does not make a difference, go to your circuit box and see if a breaker has been tripped. If a breaker has been tripped, verify the power to the garbage disposal is off and reset the circuit breaker. A tripped circuit breaker is a reasonably common issue and something that someone can do on their own, not since paying a professional $75 to push a button. Of course, if the unit repeatedly trips the circuit breaker, contact a professional to investigate.
Jamming
If you turn on the garbage disposal, and it hums, but still is not working, the odds are the impellers are stuck. Step number one: NEVER stick your hand down into the drain and into the disposal. This may seem obvious, but most people have been sticking their hands into problems and feeling around to learn more, and this has become a natural action, almost automatic. You must intentionally overcome this tendency. You do not want something to suddenly un-jam and have the disposal treat your fingers as food. Step number two is to turn off the circuit breaker for the disposal and remove the bottom housing so you can dislodge the blockage from beneath. While this is a simple fix, hiring a professional is best if you need to know what you're doing. Remember, the impellers will grind more than food waste.
Last Option
If it is not one of the above issues, it's a more serious fix; replacing the unit may be the best option. Remember to check if the unit is still covered under warranty. If it is out of warranty, replacement units are relatively inexpensive (usually a few hundred dollars), but there is also the installation to plan for. While new units come with installation instructions for the homeowner, they take time to install, and hiring a professional to install the unit and take care of the plumbing may be the best bet.
Avoiding Garbage Disposal Repair
Never grind non-food items such as glass, rubber, or metal in your disposal. Also, never grind fibrous foods, coffee grounds, eggshells, or bones. Do not overfill the disposal or use chemical drain cleaners to unclog it. They do not work; you'll be stuck with a sink full of toxic liquids.
Always run cold water while in use and for a short time afterward. Always have a drain strainer in place to avoid blockage. If items get stuck in the unit for too long and your sink begins to stink, make it smell better by grinding up a piece of lemon peel with ice cubes while running warm water.
Mr Fixer has a team of skilled and highly trained technicians who arrive at your location with fully stocked trucks to provide dishwasher repair, oven and cooktop repair, and garbage disposal repair. We are fully licensed and insured. Call today for speedy, same-day service.
