Beyond Bending Tell You How
Having a garbage disposal in your kitchen sink can be a great convenience. It makes cleaning up after meals a breeze, and it keeps your kitchen smelling fresh. However, just like any other appliance, garbage disposals can sometimes break down or stop working properly. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common issues that can arise with a sink trash disposal and how to fix them.
Step 1: Turn Off the Power
The first step in fixing a garbage disposal is to turn off the power. This is important for your safety. You should never work on a garbage disposal that is still connected to electricity. To turn off the power, locate the circuit breaker that controls the disposal and flip the switch to the “off” position.
Step 2: Check for Blockages
If your garbage disposal is not working, the first thing you should check for is blockages. Often, food scraps or other debris can get stuck in the disposal and prevent it from functioning properly. To check for blockages, shine a flashlight down into the disposal and look for any visible obstructions. If you see anything, use a pair of tongs or pliers to remove it.
Step 3: Reset the Disposal
If your garbage disposal is not working at all, it may have tripped a circuit breaker. To reset the disposal, locate the reset button on the bottom of the unit and press it. This should restore power to the disposal and allow it to function properly.
Step 4: Remove the Splash Guard
If your garbage disposal is still not working, you may need to remove the splash guard to access the blades. To do this, unplug the disposal and use a screwdriver to loosen the screws that hold the splash guard in place. Once the screws are removed, you should be able to lift the guard out of the disposal.
Step 5: Clear the Blades
Once you have removed the splash guard, you should be able to see the blades of the garbage disposal. Check for any visible blockages and use a pair of pliers or tongs to remove them. You can also use a flashlight to shine down into the disposal and check for any hidden blockages.
Step 6: Check the Flywheel
If your garbage disposal is still not working, you may need to check the flywheel. The flywheel is the part of the disposal that spins and grinds up food scraps. Sometimes, the flywheel can become jammed or stuck. To check the flywheel, unplug the disposal and use a flashlight to look inside. If you see any obstructions, use a pair of tongs or pliers to remove them.
Step 7: Check the Motor
If none of the above steps have fixed your garbage disposal, you may need to check the motor. The motor is the most complex part of the disposal, and it can be difficult to diagnose problems with it. If you suspect that the motor is the problem, you may need to call a professional plumber or electrician to come and take a look.
Step 8: Reassemble the Disposal
Once you have fixed the problem with your garbage disposal, it is time to reassemble the unit. Replace the splash guard and tighten the screws that hold it in place. Then, plug the disposal back in and turn on the power at the circuit breaker.
Step 9: Test the Disposal
Finally, it is time to test the garbage disposal. Turn on the water and let it run into the sink. Then, turn on the disposal and listen for any unusual noises. If everything sounds normal, you should be good to go!
Conclusion
Fixing a sink trash disposal can be a bit intimidating, but with these step-by-step instructions, you should be able to tackle most common problems. Remember to always turn off the power before working on the disposal, and be careful when handling any sharp or moving parts. If you are unsure about any aspect of the repair process, it is always better to call in a professional to help.
