Beyond Bending Tell You How
If you’re hearing a humming sound coming from your garbage disposal, it’s likely that it’s jammed. This can be a frustrating problem, but it’s one that can be easily fixed. In this article, we’ll go over the steps you can take to unjam your garbage disposal and stop the humming noise.
Step 1: Turn Off the Power
The first step in fixing a jammed garbage disposal is to turn off the power. This will ensure that you don’t accidentally get your fingers caught in the blades while you’re trying to fix the problem. To turn off the power, unplug the disposal or turn off the circuit breaker that powers it.
Step 2: Check for Objects
Once the power is off, you can take a look inside the disposal to see if there are any objects stuck in it. Use a flashlight to get a good look. If you see any objects, use a pair of tongs or pliers to carefully remove them. Be sure to never put your hand inside the disposal, even if it’s turned off.
Step 3: Try Resetting the Disposal
If you don’t see any objects stuck in the disposal, try resetting it. Look for a small red button on the bottom of the unit and press it. This will reset the disposal and may fix the problem. Once you’ve reset the disposal, turn the power back on and see if the humming noise has stopped.
Step 4: Use a Hex Wrench
If resetting the disposal didn’t work, you can try using a hex wrench to unjam it. Look for a hex-shaped hole on the bottom of the disposal and insert the wrench. Turn it back and forth to loosen any objects that may be stuck. Once you’ve loosened the objects, remove them with tongs or pliers.
Step 5: Use a Wooden Spoon
If the hex wrench doesn’t work, you can try using a wooden spoon to unjam the disposal. Turn off the power and use the spoon to gently push the blades back and forth. This may help to loosen any objects that are stuck.
Step 6: Use Ice Cubes
If none of the previous steps have worked, you can try using ice cubes to unjam the disposal. Fill a plastic bag with ice cubes and place it in the disposal. Turn the power on and run cold water over the ice cubes. The ice will help to loosen any objects that are stuck.
Step 7: Call a Professional
If none of these steps work, it’s time to call a professional. A plumber or appliance repair technician can help you fix the problem and get your garbage disposal working again.
Preventative Measures
Once you’ve fixed your jammed garbage disposal, there are a few things you can do to prevent it from happening again in the future. Here are some tips:
- Avoid putting hard objects, like bones or fruit pits, into the disposal.
- Run cold water while using the disposal to help flush out any debris.
- Cut larger objects into smaller pieces before putting them in the disposal.
- Use a garbage disposal cleaner regularly to help break down any buildup.
Conclusion
If your garbage disposal is humming and jammed, don’t panic. With these simple steps, you can easily unjam your disposal and get it working again. Remember to always turn off the power before attempting to fix the problem, and never put your hand inside the unit. With a little bit of patience and know-how, you’ll have your garbage disposal up and running in no time.
