Hey there, folks! Are you ready for some dumpster diving? Just kidding, we're here to talk about garbage disposals and how to fix 'em!
Common Garbage Disposal Problems
So, you're chomping on some leftover pizza and suddenly, the garbage disposal stops working! Don't panic, there are a few common problems that could be causing the issue.
- Reset button - Check to see if the reset button on the bottom of the disposal needs to be pushed in.
- Jam - Sometimes, food particles can get stuck in the disposal causing it to jam. Try using a wrench to twist the blades back and forth to get rid of any blockages.
- Clogged drain - If your sink is backing up, it might not be the disposal's fault. Check your drain for any clogs.
How to Fix a Garbage Disposal
If the problem isn't resolved with the simple solutions above, it's time to do some repairs. Here are the steps:
- Turn off the power - Before doing anything, you need to turn off the circuit breaker that powers the disposal or unplug it.
- Remove the disposal - Now it's time to take out the disposal. Disconnect the drain pipes and mounting assembly first.
- Check the parts - With the disposal removed, take a look at the various parts. There could be a broken flywheel, a jammed sensor or just some general wear and tear.
- Replace or repair - Depending on the problem, you might need to replace the entire disposal, or just some parts.
- Reinstall - Once you have repaired or replaced the necessary parts, put everything back together and reinstall the disposal.
DIY Garbage Disposal Repairs
With a little bit of know-how, you can do some of the simpler repairs on your own. Here are some DIY fixes:
- Unclog the disposal - As mentioned earlier, you can usually clear out any blockages with a wrench or even a pair of pliers.
- Replace a broken flywheel - This part can be replaced by disconnecting it from the motor and unscrewing the bolts that hold it in place.
- Fix a jammed sensor - Sometimes, a quick cleaning of the sensor is all that's needed to get things moving again.
- Replace blades - Over time, the blades can dull or become damaged. They can be replaced by unscrewing them from the flywheel.
- Install a new disposal - If you're feeling adventurous, you can install a new disposal on your own. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully.
And there you have it, folks! A crash course in garbage disposal repair. Remember, safety first! Always turn off the power and disconnect any pipes before attempting any repairs.
