How to Fix a Garbage Disposal in Your Kitchen Sink

Introduction

A garbage disposal is a helpful tool in your kitchen sink that helps you get rid of food waste easily. However, it can malfunction from time to time, and this can be frustrating. Luckily, fixing a garbage disposal is not complicated, and it doesn’t require any special skills. In this article, we will show you how to fix a garbage disposal in your kitchen sink.

Step 1: Turn off the Power

Before you start fixing your garbage disposal, you need to ensure that the power is turned off. You can do this by unplugging the unit or turning off the circuit breaker that supplies power to the disposal.

Step 2: Check for Blockages

The next step is to check for any blockages in the garbage disposal. Use a flashlight to look inside the disposal and check for any foreign objects such as bones or utensils that may be causing the blockage. If you find any, use tongs or pliers to remove them.

Step 3: Reset the Disposal

If the garbage disposal is not working, it may be because it has overheated. To fix this, you need to reset the disposal. Look for a small red button on the bottom of the disposal and press it. This should reset the unit.

Step 4: Remove Any Excess Water

Before you start working on the garbage disposal, you need to remove any excess water in the sink. Use a cup or bowl to scoop out the water and dispose of it in a bucket.

Step 5: Check the Blades

The garbage disposal blades may become dull over time, and this can cause the unit to malfunction. To check the blades, use a flashlight to look inside the disposal and see if they are intact. If they are damaged, you may need to replace them.

Step 6: Clean the Disposal

Cleaning the garbage disposal is essential to prevent any odors and to keep it functioning correctly. To clean the unit, pour a cup of vinegar and a cup of baking soda into the disposal. Wait for a few minutes and then pour hot water into the unit.

Step 7: Check the Wiring

If the garbage disposal is still not working, you may need to check the wiring. Turn off the power supply and remove the cover plate. Check the wiring for any loose connections and tighten them if necessary.

Step 8: Test the Disposal

Once you have completed all the steps above, it’s time to test the garbage disposal. Turn on the power and run water into the sink. Turn on the disposal and listen for any unusual noises. If everything is working correctly, the garbage disposal should run smoothly.

Conclusion

Fixing a garbage disposal in your kitchen sink is not difficult. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can get your disposal unit back to working correctly in no time. Remember to turn off the power before you start working on the unit, and always be careful when handling the blades.