Troubleshoot Garbage Disposal Problem With These Tips
Scary movies have given garbage disposals an overachieving reputation. You see the minor character reaching into the kitchen sink, and suddenly a terrifying crime scene ensues. If garbage disposal blades are so sharp and dangerous, why do they always get clogged?
The reason is that most garbage disposals, though incredibly painful to hands, have much duller blades than we think. This fact DOES NOT welcome you or anyone to put their hand down there to see, but it does give us some reference as to why garbage disposals underwhelm in their food slashing abilities and how things can pile up over time. While we don’t suggest putting your hand down the disposal, in any situation, we do have some tips on how to troubleshoot a garbage disposal issue safely and effectively.
Garbage disposal won’t turn on
You flip the switch, and nothing happens. There is no sound, no grinding, nothing but stuff left to be pulverized, and you are wondering what to do. We usually diagnose this as an electrical issue. The lack of sound or movement could mean the following:
Replug the disposal. Plug the disposal in, and voila, you’re back in business.
The device requires resetting. Often below the switch to turn the disposal on and off, you will find a reset button that pops outward when not working. Push it back in to restore power. In some cases, it is actually in the circuit breaker box and needs resetting in the service panel.
The garbage disposal has a wiring issue. You may find that the wires are frayed or simply no longer work. In many of these cases, you will need a replacement for the disposal or connections to it. If you don’t have experience with this type of project, contact a professional appliance specialist before trying to rewire your garbage disposal and potentially cause harm to yourself or your electrical system.
Disposal is humming, not grinding
A buzzing disposal means the electrical is working, but there is something lodged or jamming the machinery. We suggest turning off the switch to the garbage disposal and the circuit breaker to allow zero power to the sink. Using a long wooden spoon or large Allen wrench, attempt to turn the flywheel clockwise. If this tip works, the blades should loosen and move freely. Reminder: Do not put your hands down there!
If the item is still stuck, use a flashlight to look at what is causing the issue. Use pliers to remove the obstruction.
Garbage disposal is leaking
There are three potential places garbage disposals may leak: the sink, the dishwasher, or the discharge drainpipe. All of these hoses can be tightened or replaced to fix the leak. No matter where the issue is, always turn off the disposal while troubleshooting and wait to return to power when tightening the bolts.
The sink is draining slowly
A blockage causes most sinks to drain slowly. We don’t suggest using chemical drain cleaners because of the potential harm they cause to pipes and the plumbing system. To release the clog, you will likely need to disassemble the drain trap and remove the food or buildup from the lines.
Turn off the disposal and the primary circuit break power source.
Place a bucket underneath the sink.
Untighten the bolts on the pipe connected to the disposal.
Remove the drain trap or U-shaped portion of the pipe and check for a cause of blockages.
Clear out any obstructions that you find.
Resemble and reconnect the drain trap and the discharge pipe.
Try running water down the drain to see if the issue is resolved.
If the problem persists, it might be time to connect with an experienced plumber in your area.
Garbage disposal woes don’t have to be scary. With the right tools and a few helpful tips, you’ll be right on your way to free and clear drains and effective food scrap grinding again.
Much Better Plumbing is the premier residential and commercial plumbing service for homeowners and businesses in the Las Vegas area. We are licensed, bonded, and insured. Call us today at 702-996-5220.