Repairing a Fussy Garbage Disposal

Answer 1

A garbage disposal is a convenient tool for virtually any kitchen, and once the appliance is in use every day, it is hard to do without one. There are a few things that can cause a garbage disposal to go on the fritz and some of them can actually be fixed without calling in a professional.

No Noise

If the disposal has stopped making any noise when it has been turned on, there are some things that can be checked.

1. Look under the sink, at the bottom of the garbage disposal, and try to press the unit's reset button. Sometimes it is as simple as the reset button popping out. Push it back in and give the disposal another try.

2. Check the circuit breaker. If it has been tripped, switch it off and back on, then try the disposal again.

3. Find the switch that powers the garbage disposal. This is usually located on the wall near the sink or in the cabinet underneath the sink. It may be a case of a malfunctioning switch. Turn off the circuit breaker the powers the disposal, then replace the faulty switch. Try the disposal once again. If this is an uncomfortable situation, it might be worth it to have a professional fix it.

4. If nothing else is fixing the problem and the disposal still makes no noise when turned on, it might need to be replaced completely. A bit of do-it-yourself knowledge is required for this sort of replacement, so a professional might be needed.

Strange Noises

If the disposal unit is making odd or humming noises but will not actually run, it might be clogged or stuck on something.

1. Switch the circuit breaker that powers the disposal off.

2. Most garbage disposals come with an offset wrench. Insert this wrench into the flywheel turning hole - this is situated on the bottom of the garbage disposal. Going in a clockwise direction, turn the wrench. This will dislodge anything that has gotten stuck. The flywheel will turn freely when it has been cleared.

3. Never put a hand down the garbage disposal. Using a wooden broom handle, the disposal's impeller can be easily unclogged or unstuck from the sink drain. Place the end of the handle against the impeller and, using a bit of elbow grease, try to free it. When it is not obstructed any longer, remove the handle and push the reset button underneath the unit.

4. Turn the water on in the sink and quickly switch the disposal off and on for a few seconds. This will make the flywheel spin and can help to dislodge anything clogging it.