The garbage disposal is an incredibly useful appliance in modern homes. It helps to keep food debris from piling up in the sink, and it helps maintain a cleaner, more hygienic kitchen. However, there are times when this device may malfunction, and if you don’t know how to fix it, you may find yourself in a sticky situation.
In this blog post, we’ll share an amateur’s DIY guide to fixing a garbage disposal like a pro with basic home maintenance courses so you can save time and money on repairs.
Safety first
Before we dive into fixing your garbage disposal, let’s ensure you’re prepared. Make sure to disconnect the power supply to the garbage disposal by unplugging it or turning off the circuit breaker that supplies it with electricity. Most garbage disposals have a reset button, so check for that. Also, get a pair of gloves to protect your hands and a flashlight to see what’s going on.
Check for Clogs and Blockages
Once the power has been shut off, you can remove any clogs or blockages that may be causing your garbage disposal to malfunction. To do this, use a flashlight and look inside the unit for any objects stuck in it. If you find anything, carefully remove it using pliers or tweezers.
Identify the Problem
Before you attempt to fix the garbage disposal, you need to know what’s wrong with it. Turn the power back on and turn on the water. If your garbage disposal hums when you turn it on, it is most likely jammed. If it doesn’t make any noise, there’s a problem with the electrical or motor supply. If you notice leaks or drips, there’s an issue with the pipes.
Fixing Leaks or Drips
If you notice leaks or drips from your garbage disposal, inspect it carefully for any cracks or holes. You can apply a bead of plumber’s putty around the drain flange to seal any gaps or use a sealant or epoxy.
Clean Out Debris
You should clean out any debris that may have built up in your garbage disposal over time. You can do this by using a damp cloth and wiping down all the interior surfaces of the garbage disposal, including the blades and motor housing. Pay special attention to areas where food particles may have lodged in hard-to-reach places.
Test Run Your Garbage Disposal
Once you have finished cleaning out your garbage disposal, it’s time to test it out! Start by running some cold water into your sink, then turn on your garbage disposal while keeping your hands away from its blades as they spin. If everything works properly, you can move on to the next step!
Adjust Settings
Adjust your garbage disposal’s settings accordingly to run more efficiently and quietly when in use. Most models come with adjustable speed settings, which allow you to control how quickly or slowly your garbage disposer runs when grinding up food particles and debris.
Fix a Jammed Garbage Disposal
If your garbage disposal is jammed, you can fix it by turning off the power supply and removing the debris. Start by inserting the Hex Key that came with the disposal into the hole in the center of the underside. Twist the wrench back and forth to loosen any debris stuck in the unit. Alternatively, use pliers or tongs to clear the debris if the wrench doesn’t work. Once you’ve removed the debris, turn the power back on and run some water to flush it out.
Reattach Plumbing Connections
Now that you have adjusted your settings and fixed the jam, it is time to reattach your plumbing connections to ensure proper drainage from your sink into your garbage disposer unit and a nearby drainpipe or sewer line, if applicable, in your home setup.
Home Maintenance 101 with The Home Menders – Fix Your Garbage Disposal with Our DIY Home Repair Courses
Fixing a garbage disposal may seem intimidating, but it’s very simple. Follow our tips carefully to fix the most common issues easily. Remember to prioritize safety, identify the problem, and follow our outlined steps to get your garbage disposal back in working order.
Visit The Home Menders today to get the best home repair tips from the experts. We offer home repair courses for beginners to help homeowners improve their DIY game. Contact us today to learn more!