How to Fix Your Garbage Disposal

A garbage disposal is a useful appliance that helps you get rid of food scraps quickly and easily. But when it gets clogged, it can be frustrating and unpleasant to deal with. Luckily, there are a few simple steps you can take to fix a blocked garbage disposal.

Step 1: Turn off the power Before you start working on your garbage disposal, it’s important to turn off the power to the unit to prevent any accidents. You can do this by unplugging it or turning off the circuit breaker that powers it.

Step 2: Identify the problem The next step is to identify the cause of the blockage. Common causes of blockages include food scraps that are too large, fibrous or starchy, grease or oil, and foreign objects. It’s important to know what you’re dealing with so you can fix the problem effectively.

Step 3: Clear the blockage Once you’ve identified the cause of the blockage, you can start to clear it. One of the easiest ways to do this is to use a plunger. Place the plunger over the drain and give it a few quick pumps to create suction. This can help to dislodge any food scraps or other debris that is causing the blockage.

If the plunger doesn’t work, you can try using a pair of tongs to remove any large food scraps that are visible in the disposal. Be sure to use tongs that are long enough to reach the bottom of the unit.

If the blockage is caused by fibrous or starchy foods, such as celery or potato peels, you can try grinding them with ice cubes to help break them up.

Step 4: Reset the disposal Once you’ve cleared the blockage, you can reset the garbage disposal. To do this, locate the reset button on the unit and press it. This will reset the unit and allow you to turn the power back on.

Step 5: Run water and test the disposal Finally, run water down the drain and turn the garbage disposal back on to make sure it’s working properly. If the blockage has been cleared, the unit should be running smoothly again.

In conclusion, a blocked garbage disposal can be a frustrating problem, but it’s usually easy to fix. By following these simple steps, you can clear the blockage and get your disposal back up and running in no time. Remember to always turn off the power before working on your garbage disposal and to be careful when using any tools to avoid injury.