Beyond Bending Tell You How
Introduction
Garbage disposals are a great tool in any kitchen, but they can also be a headache when they break down. If you find yourself with a broken garbage disposal, don’t panic! In this article, we’ll go over step-by-step instructions on how to fix your garbage disposal so you can get back to using it in no time.
Tools You’ll Need
Before we get started, let’s go over the tools you’ll need to fix your garbage disposal. You’ll need:- A flashlight- A pair of pliers- An Allen wrench- A screwdriver- A bucket or bowl
Step One: Turn Off the Power
The first step in fixing your garbage disposal is to turn off the power. You can do this by unplugging the disposal from the outlet or by turning off the circuit breaker that powers it. Make sure you double-check that the power is off before you start working on it.
Step Two: Locate the Reset Button
If your garbage disposal isn’t working at all, the problem may be as simple as a tripped reset button. Look for a small red button on the bottom of the disposal unit and press it to reset the unit.
Step Three: Check for Blockages
If the reset button didn’t do the trick, the next step is to check for blockages. Use a flashlight to shine into the disposal and look for any objects or debris that may be blocking the blades. Use a pair of pliers or tongs to remove any objects you find.
Step Four: Use an Allen Wrench
If you don’t find any blockages, the problem may be with the blades themselves. Use an Allen wrench to turn the blades manually. Insert the wrench into the hole at the bottom of the disposal and turn it back and forth. If the blades turn freely, move on to the next step.
Step Five: Check the Flywheel
If the blades don’t turn freely, the problem may be with the flywheel. Look for a small opening on the bottom of the disposal unit and insert the Allen wrench. Use the wrench to turn the flywheel back and forth until it turns freely.
Step Six: Clear the Drain
If the blades and flywheel are both working properly, the problem may be with the drain. Use a plunger or drain snake to clear any blockages in the drain.
Step Seven: Clean the Disposal
Once you’ve cleared any blockages, it’s a good idea to clean the disposal to prevent future problems. Fill the sink with hot water and a few drops of dish soap. Turn on the disposal and let the water run for a few minutes to clean out any debris.
Step Eight: Test the Disposal
After you’ve cleaned the disposal, turn the power back on and test it to make sure it’s working properly. Run water and turn on the disposal to make sure it’s grinding up food waste and draining properly.
Conclusion
Fixing a broken garbage disposal may seem intimidating, but with these step-by-step instructions, you can do it yourself in no time. Remember to always turn off the power before working on the disposal, and be sure to clean it regularly to prevent future problems.
