Has your garbage disposal failed you? Does it not grind? Does it leak? Does it make a humming sound but accomplishes nothing? Or does it just do nothing when the switch is thrown? For any of these conditions there is a fix, and maybe it’s a do-it-yourself fix.
One thing most anyone can do is check the reset button. Look under the sink, find the bottom of the disposal unit, and locate the reset button. It is most likely red. Push it and try the disposal again. That might just fix the problem.
If the motor hums but doesn’t turn, there is a good chance that the unit is jammed. If you are up to getting under there, and if you can locate a hex wrench that fits the hex hole at the bottom of the unit, you can try turning one way and then the other. That may free up a jam and get you operational again.
If there is no noise at all from your garbage disposal, check the connection. Is it plugged in? Is the socket live? You can plug something portable into the same socket and make sure that it works. You can check circuit breakers, switches, and fuses, as with any electrical problem.
If there is a leak, you of course need to locate the leak. It may be in the plumbing leading to or from the unit. You can address the problem there, if you feel qualified, or call a helpful plumber. If the disposal unit itself is leaking, it may be cheaper to replace it than to get into the insides.
If the disposal seem to run alright but doesn’t grind up the garbage, the blades may be broken. It will probably be a better idea to replace the unit than to get in there and try to fix it. If the disposal runs but the water doesn’t go anywhere, there’s probably a drain problem down the line.
If the simple steps of testing, reseting, or unjamming don’t work, it’s probably time to call in a professional for replacement of that garbage disposal gone bad.
Norwalk/La Mirada, CA 91766 | (562) 219-4085
