A malfunctioning garbage disposal can disrupt your daily routine and leave your kitchen in disarray. Before you panic, try these steps to fix the issue:
Step 1: Reset the Unit
- Most garbage disposals have a built-in reset button located at the bottom of the unit. If the disposal isn’t turning on, press the reset button and try again. If it still doesn’t work, check your home’s circuit breaker to ensure the disposal is receiving power.
Step 2: Clear a Jam
- If the disposal hums but doesn’t grind, it’s likely jammed. Turn off the power to the unit, either at the wall switch or the circuit breaker. Use an Allen wrench (hex key) to manually turn the motor from the bottom of the unit to dislodge the jam. Never put your hands inside the disposal!
Step 3: Clean the Blades and Drain
- If your garbage disposal is working but has a foul odor or drains slowly, it may need cleaning. Run a few ice cubes and lemon peels through the disposal to clean the blades and freshen it up. For slow draining, pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar into the drain, let it sit for 10 minutes, then flush it with hot water.
If your garbage disposal still isn’t working or you’re unsure how to fix it, Adams Plumbing and Drain can help. From repairs to replacements, our team is ready to get your kitchen back to normal quickly and efficiently. Call us today for expert service you can trust!
Our Service Areas:
Gulf Shores, Mobile, Saraland, Satsuma, Semmes, Tillmans Corner, Prichard, Theodore, Dauphin island, Chickasaw, Creola, Bay Minette, Spanish Fort, Daphne, Fairhope, Foley, Loxley, Robertsdale, Summerdale, Stockton, Stapleton.
