Quick Fixes for Common Garbage Disposal Problems

A garbage disposal unit is an electronic device fitted under the kitchen sink to shred food waste. Because a garbage disposal unit is a fairly simple machine, making repairs does not require technical know-how. In today’s post, we are listing down some of the most common garbage disposal issues and how to fix them:

Garbage Disposal is Not Working

If say, the garbage disposal is not humming or making a sound, it is a sign that the unit is not receiving power. Check under the disposal unit and look for the reset button. Just click the button and the garbage disposal should be working with no issue. If the problem persists, unplug the unit and test nearby electrical outlets. If the garbage disposal is still not working, reset the circuit breaker.

The Unit is Clogged

If the garbage disposal is humming loudly but the food waste is not being grounded, turn off the unit. A bone or a fruit pit could be jamming the unit. You need to clear the clog by checking under the sink and looking for a hex-shaped hole on the garbage disposal. Using a hex wrench, force the tool into the hole in a back and forth motion to free the impellers.

If your garbage disposal does not a hex hole or you do not have a hex wrench, just get a broomstick and stick it against one of the blades to rotate the impeller. You can also use a tong or pliers to remove the offending material that’s clogging the garbage disposal.

Does not Grind Food Very Well

If your garbage disposal is not doing a good job grinding solid wastes, try running a little water as the unit works. If the unit is still grinding poorly but it is not clogged, the blades could be broken. You’d have to replace the blades.

Clogged Disposal Drain

If say, the water won’t drain, the problem could be a clogged disposal drain or a clogged drain line. This is a plumbing problem so better let a plumber handle the problem.

Leaky Garbage Disposal

If water or liquefied waste is leaking below the garbage disposal, you have to determine where the leak is and tighten the connection. A faulty drain gasket or loose mounting screws could cause leaks too. If a broken drain gasket is causing the leak, you have to replace said gasket to seal any gaps. As for loose mounting screws, just get a screwdriver and tighten the screws back.

Dirty Garbage Disposal

The garbage disposal can become dirty over time due to sludge buildup. To ensure a trouble-free operation, you have to clean the unit regularly. Thankfully, cleaning a garbage disposal is fairly easy. Just fill the garbage disposal with ice cubes and a cup of rock salt. Leave the unit to run for five seconds. If bad odors are emanating from the drain, run hot water down while grinding a piece of lemon. The warm water should melt the sludge while the lemon eliminates bad odors.