How to Fix a Garbage Disposal
Garbage disposals are a convenient way to get rid of food scraps and other small items. However, they can sometimes become clogged or jammed, which can prevent them from working properly. If your garbage disposal is not working, there are a few things you can do to try to fix it yourself.
Check the power:
The first thing you should do is check to make sure that the garbage disposal is getting power. Make sure that the power cord is plugged into an outlet and that the switch is turned on. If the power is on, but the garbage disposal is not working, you may need to reset it.
Reset the garbage disposal:
To reset the garbage disposal, find the reset button on the bottom of the unit. Press and hold the reset button for a few seconds, then release it. The garbage disposal should now be reset and should start working again.
Clear the drain:
If the garbage disposal is still not working, you may need to clear the drain. To do this, use a pair of pliers to remove the drain plug from the bottom of the garbage disposal. Once the drain plug is removed, use a flashlight to look inside the drain and remove any debris that may be blocking it.
Unjam the garbage disposal:
If the drain is clear, but the garbage disposal is still not working, you may need to unjam it. To do this, use a pair of tongs or a screwdriver to reach down into the garbage disposal and remove any debris that may be jamming it. Be careful not to put your hand down into the garbage disposal, as this could be dangerous.
If you have tried all of the above steps and your garbage disposal is still not working, you may need to call a plumber.
Here are some additional tips for keeping your garbage disposal in good working order:
- Do not put hard objects in the garbage disposal. This includes things like bones, fruit pits, and metal objects.
- Do not put grease or oil in the garbage disposal. This can cause the garbage disposal to become clogged.
- Run cold water when using the garbage disposal. This will help to keep the garbage disposal from becoming clogged.
- Clean the garbage disposal regularly. To do this, pour a cup of baking soda down the drain and then run hot water for a few minutes. This will help to remove any buildup of debris.
FAQ:
Q: Why is my garbage disposal not working?
A: There are a few reasons why your garbage disposal may not be working. The most common reasons include:
- The power is not on.
- The garbage disposal is jammed.
- The drain is clogged.
- The garbage disposal is broken.
Q: How do I reset my garbage disposal?
A: To reset your garbage disposal, find the reset button on the bottom of the unit. Press and hold the reset button for a few seconds, then release it. The garbage disposal should now be reset and should start working again.
Q: How do I clear the drain in my garbage disposal?
A: To clear the drain in your garbage disposal, use a pair of pliers to remove the drain plug from the bottom of the garbage disposal. Once the drain plug is removed, use a flashlight to look inside the drain and remove any debris that may be blocking it.
Q: How do I unjam my garbage disposal?
A: To unjam your garbage disposal, use a pair of tongs or a screwdriver to reach down into the garbage disposal and remove any debris that may be jamming it. Be careful not to put your hand down into the garbage disposal, as this could be dangerous.
Q: I have tried all of the above steps and my garbage disposal is still not working. What should I do?
A: If you have tried all of the above steps and your garbage disposal is still not working, you may need to call a plumber.
