Garbage disposals are essential appliances in most kitchens, making cleanup easier and preventing food scraps from piling up. However, like any other appliance, they can encounter issues over time. When this happens, understanding how to troubleshoot and fix common problems can save you both time and money. Here are some helpful plumbing repair tips to fix your garbage disposal and restore its functionality quickly.
1. Check for a Jammed Disposal
A common issue with garbage disposals is a jammed unit. This usually occurs when hard items, like bones or silverware, get stuck inside the disposal, preventing it from turning. Here’s how to fix it:
- Turn off the power: First, unplug the garbage disposal or turn off the circuit breaker to ensure safety while working on it.
- Check for visible obstructions: Shine a flashlight into the disposal to see if anything is blocking the blades.
- Use an Allen wrench: Many disposals have a manual crank feature. Insert the Allen wrench into the socket at the bottom of the disposal and turn it back and forth to dislodge the jam.
- Use tongs or pliers: If the obstruction is visible, use a pair of tongs or pliers to remove it carefully.
- Restore power: After clearing the jam, plug the disposal back in and turn on the power to test the unit.
2. Troubleshooting a Stuck Flywheel
If your garbage disposal’s flywheel is stuck, it will prevent the motor from turning. Here’s what you can do to fix it:
- Turn off the power: Always begin by unplugging the disposal or switching off the circuit breaker.
- Manually rotate the flywheel: Using a broomstick or similar object, insert it into the disposal and attempt to turn the flywheel manually. This action should loosen any debris or grime causing the issue.
- Check for damage: If the flywheel is still stuck after attempting to rotate it, it may be broken. In such cases, replacing the disposal might be the best option.
3. Fixing a Clogged Disposal
A clogged garbage disposal is another common issue. If water is not draining properly or you hear strange gurgling sounds, your disposal might be clogged. Here’s what to do:
- Turn off the power: Always make sure the power is off before attempting to fix a clogged disposal.
- Plunge the disposal: Using a plunger, try to dislodge the clog. Block the sink’s drain with a wet cloth to create a seal before plunging.
- Clear the drain pipe: If plunging doesn’t work, try using a plumber’s snake to clear the pipe. Insert the snake into the drain line and rotate it until the clog is cleared.
- Flush with hot water: Once the clog is cleared, run hot water through the disposal to ensure everything is working smoothly.
4. How to Fix a Leaking Garbage Disposal
Leaks around the garbage disposal can occur at the sink flange, the discharge pipe, or the dishwasher connection. If your disposal is leaking, follow these steps:
- Turn off the power: Always disconnect the power before inspecting the unit.
- Inspect the sink flange: The sink flange is the part that connects the disposal to the sink. If it’s loose, tighten the mounting bolts.
- Check the discharge pipe: Look for any loose or cracked discharge pipes. Tighten any loose connections and replace any damaged pipes.
- Examine the dishwasher connection: If your disposal is connected to the dishwasher, check the hose for leaks or cracks. Replace the hose if necessary.
- Test the unit: Once repairs are made, plug the disposal back in, restore power, and check for leaks by running water through the disposal.
5. Fixing a Noisy Garbage Disposal
Noisy garbage disposals can be caused by a variety of factors, including worn-out bearings, jammed debris, or the blades hitting hard objects. Here’s how to troubleshoot the issue:
- Turn off the power: Disconnect the power to the garbage disposal before attempting any repairs.
- Check for foreign objects: Look inside the disposal for any objects that could be causing the noise. Use tongs or pliers to remove any debris.
- Inspect the flywheel: A worn-out flywheel may cause excessive noise. If this is the issue, the flywheel or the entire unit may need to be replaced.
- Check for worn bearings: If the noise persists, the bearings in the motor may be worn out. If this is the case, you may need to replace the entire disposal unit.
6. Resetting Your Garbage Disposal
Sometimes, the garbage disposal simply needs to be reset to resolve a problem. If the unit stops working, follow these steps:
- Turn off the power: Unplug the garbage disposal or turn off the circuit breaker.
- Locate the reset button: The reset button is usually located on the bottom of the disposal unit. It is a red button that you can press to reset the motor.
- Press the reset button: Press the red reset button and wait for it to click.
- Test the disposal: Once the reset is complete, restore power and test the unit to see if it’s working again.
FAQs
What can I put in my garbage disposal?
Garbage disposals are designed for food scraps like fruit and vegetable peels, small bones, eggshells, and coffee grounds. Avoid putting fibrous foods, grease, or large bones in the disposal.
Why does my garbage disposal smell bad?
Bad odors in the garbage disposal are often caused by trapped food particles. To prevent this, clean the disposal regularly using baking soda and vinegar or a commercial disposal cleaner. Run cold water while grinding to flush debris away.
How do I prevent my garbage disposal from clogging?
To prevent clogs, avoid putting hard or fibrous foods, such as corn husks or onion skins, into the disposal. Additionally, regularly running cold water while using the disposal helps to prevent grease buildup and keeps the blades clean.
Can I fix a garbage disposal myself?
Many common garbage disposal issues, such as jams, clogs, and leaks, can be fixed by homeowners. However, if you encounter complex issues or if your disposal is old and worn out, it may be best to consult a plumber for professional help.
When should I replace my garbage disposal?
If your garbage disposal is more than 10 years old, frequently breaks down, or is beyond repair, it may be time to replace it. Newer models are more energy-efficient and can handle a wider variety of food scraps.
By following these plumbing repair tips, you can tackle common garbage disposal problems with confidence. Regular maintenance and timely repairs will ensure your disposal continues to work effectively for years to come.