Quick Fixes and Maintenance Tips for a Smooth-Running Garbage Disposal
Is your garbage disposal jammed or not working correctly? Knowing how to unjam and reset your garbage disposal is crucial for keeping your kitchen running smoothly. This guide will walk you through the steps to troubleshoot, unjam, and maintain your disposal to prevent future issues.
Understanding Your Garbage Disposal
A garbage disposal is a powerful machine installed under your kitchen sink, connected to your plumbing and powered by electricity. It grinds food waste into small particles that safely pass through your pipes. However, like any appliance, it can encounter problems, especially if something gets stuck in the grinding chamber.
Common Causes of Disposal Jams
Garbage disposals are designed to handle various food scraps, but certain items can cause jams, such as:
- Fibrous Foods: Items like celery and corn husks can wrap around the blades.
- Starchy Foods: Potato peels and rice can create a paste that clogs the disposal.
- Non-Food Items: Small objects like silverware or bones can cause significant damage.
How to Unjam Your Garbage Disposal
- Safety First:
Always unplug the disposal or switch off the circuit breaker to avoid accidental activation. - Inspect and Remove Debris:
Use a flashlight to look inside the disposal. If you see visible debris, use tongs or pliers to remove it. Avoid using your hands to prevent injury. - Manually Rotate the Blades:
If the blades are stuck, use the disposal wrench (usually a hex key) that came with your unit. Insert it into the bottom center of the disposal and rotate back and forth until the jam is cleared. - Press the Reset Button:
Once the jam is cleared, press the reset button located on the bottom of the disposal. This restores power to the unit after a jam has caused it to trip. - Test Your Disposal:
Plug the unit back in or turn the power back on, then test the disposal. If it runs smoothly, the problem is fixed. If not, there may be a more serious issue.
When to Call a Professional
If your disposal continues to malfunction, shows signs of wear, or emits a burning smell, it’s time to contact a professional. Persistent issues can indicate deeper problems that require expert attention.
Preventing Future Jams
- Use Cold Water:
Always run cold water while the disposal is operating. Cold water solidifies grease, making it easier to chop and wash away. - Mind What You Dispose:
Avoid fibrous foods, starchy items, and non-food materials that can cause clogs and jams. - Regular Maintenance:
Run a mixture of ice cubes and citrus peels through the disposal periodically to clean the blades and freshen the unit.
Understanding Other Potential Issues
Sometimes, what seems like a garbage disposal issue might be something else:
- Clogged Drain:
If both sides of your sink are backing up, the problem may be a clogged drain further down the line. For more tips on maintaining your drains, check out our Appliance Maintenance Page. - Electrical Issues:
If the disposal is unresponsive, check if the reset button has tripped. If it still doesn’t work, test the outlet with another device to rule out electrical problems.
The GPS Plumbing Difference
At GPS Plumbing, we don’t just fix problems—we provide long-term solutions to keep your home’s plumbing running smoothly. Whether it’s unjamming a garbage disposal or replacing a worn-out unit, our licensed plumbers are here to help. We pride ourselves on our community-first approach, ensuring every customer receives top-tier service and expert advice.
Services We Offer:
- Unjamming and Resetting:
We can quickly unjam your disposal and get it back in working order. - Disposal Replacement:
If your disposal is beyond repair, we offer installation services for new units. - Preventive Maintenance:
Regular inspections and maintenance can prevent future issues and extend the life of your disposal.
For more information on how to properly maintain your garbage disposal, visit the InSinkErator website, a trusted leader in garbage disposal units.
Conclusion
A jammed garbage disposal doesn’t have to ruin your day. With the right steps, you can unjam and reset your unit quickly. For persistent issues or peace of mind, GPS Plumbing is always here to help. Contact us today for professional garbage disposal services and ensure your kitchen runs smoothly year-round.
