Unclog your garbage disposal nightmare: why it’s not working and how to fix it fast
What To Know
- The disposal has a reset button that trips if it overheats or experiences a power surge.
- Ensure that the disposal is plugged into a working outlet and that the power switch is turned on.
- If you have tried all of the above steps and your garbage disposal is still not working, it may be time to call a professional plumber.
Garbage disposals are incredibly convenient appliances that make cleaning up after meals a breeze. However, when your garbage disposal stops working, it can be a major inconvenience. This guide will help you troubleshoot why your garbage disposal is not working and provide simple solutions to get it back up and running.
Common Reasons Why Your Garbage Disposal Not Working
1. Overloading: Putting too much food waste into the disposal at once can overload it and cause it to stop working.
2. Clogged Drain: Food particles or other debris can accumulate in the drain and prevent water from flowing through, causing the disposal to malfunction.
3. Jammed Impeller: The impeller, which is the spinning blade inside the disposal, can get jammed by large objects or bones.
4. Tripped Reset Button: The disposal has a reset button that trips if it overheats or experiences a power surge.
5. Power Outage: If there is a power outage, the disposal will not have any electricity to operate.
6. Loose or Damaged Wiring: Electrical wires can become loose or damaged, preventing the disposal from receiving power.
7. Faulty Motor: The motor is the heart of the disposal and can fail due to wear and tear or overheating.
Troubleshooting Steps
1. Check for Overloading
Remove any excess food waste from the disposal and try running it again. If it starts working, avoid overloading it in the future.
2. Unclog the Drain
Pour a pot of boiling water down the drain to dissolve any clogs. Alternatively, use a drain cleaner specifically designed for garbage disposals.
3. Free the Jammed Impeller
Use a pair of tongs or pliers to carefully remove any large objects or bones that may be jammed in the impeller. Be cautious not to damage the impeller.
4. Reset the Disposal
Locate the reset button on the bottom of the disposal and press it. If the button pops out, press it again to reset the disposal.
5. Check for Power
Ensure that the disposal is plugged into a working outlet and that the power switch is turned on. If necessary, reset the circuit breaker or fuse box.
6. Inspect the Wiring
If you are comfortable working with electrical wires, check for any loose or damaged connections. Tighten any loose wires and replace any damaged ones.
7. Call a Plumber
If you have tried all of the above steps and your garbage disposal is still not working, it may be time to call a professional plumber. They can diagnose and repair the issue accurately.
Preventative Measures
To keep your garbage disposal working smoothly, follow these preventative measures:
- Avoid overloading it.
- Run cold water while using the disposal to flush out food particles.
- Grind citrus peels or ice cubes occasionally to sharpen the blades.
- Avoid putting fibrous foods, bones, or grease down the disposal.
- Clean the disposal regularly with a commercial cleaner.
Troubleshooting Tips for Specific Disposal Brands
- InSinkErator: If your InSinkErator disposal is not working, check the reset button and the circuit breaker.
- Whirlpool: Whirlpool garbage disposals have a manual reset button located on the bottom.
- KitchenAid: KitchenAid disposals have a reset button that is accessible from the top.
- Moen: Moen garbage disposals have a reset button that is located on the side of the unit.
- Waste King: Waste King disposals have a reset button that is located on the bottom of the unit.
Beyond “Conclusion”
Troubleshooting Triumphs: Overcoming Common Disposal Dilemmas
Empowering Homeowners: DIY Repairs for a Working Disposal
Kitchen Convenience Restored: The Joy of a Functional Garbage Disposal
Top Questions Asked
Q: Why does my garbage disposal hum but not grind?
A: The disposal may be jammed or overloaded. Try resetting the disposal and removing any large objects.
Q: How do I clean my garbage disposal?
A: Use a commercial cleaner or grind citrus peels or ice cubes to sharpen the blades and remove odors.
Q: Can I put bones or grease down the garbage disposal?
A: No, bones and grease can damage the disposal or cause clogs.
