Is Your Garbage Disposal Not Working? We Know How To Help You!

The garbage disposal is one of the most useful kitchen tools, helping to keep your kitchen clean and preventing sink clogs. Many people turn to their garbage disposals to get rid of food scraps quickly, so they don’t have to worry about lingering odors. However, if it stops working, knowing the next steps can be challenging, with many unsure whether they should repair or replace it.

Often, garbage disposals break down due to improper operation, as the homeowner attempts to dispose of food items the system is not equipped to handle.

Common culprits include bones, grease, oil, and more, which may cause the disposal to jam, emit loud noises or smells, or show signs of diminished functionality. If this happens, it’s important to call a qualified plumber experienced with garbage disposal systems since the sharp blades can cause catastrophic harm or even loss of limbs.

Common Garbage Disposal Problems

Although garbage disposals are an excellent addition to any kitchen, there are times when they fail to work properly. Listed below are some of the most commonly seen issues that arise. After reading them, you will be able to decide what you need – garbage disposal installation or repair.

Slow Drainage

When your garbage disposal is clogged, it often means there is a clog somewhere inside the system. This blockage can come from various sources, but you must never stick your hand in to try to unclog it. A certified plumber can safely examine your disposal and locate and remove the clog without putting your safety at risk.

Failing To Turn On

If your disposal isn’t turning on, there are a few possible culprits. First, check to ensure it wasn’t accidentally unplugged; if it was, plug it in and see if it switched on. You can also press the reset button located at the bottom of the system. If neither of these options work, check if the circuit breaker was tripped and needs resetting. If none of these possibilities work, call your plumber to see if you require a garbage disposal replacement.

System Hums But Doesn’t Grind

Often, if your garbage disposal makes a humming sound but doesn’t grind, there is a jam stopping the blades from functioning correctly. This jam can be caused by trash or hard food falling into the drain. Never stick your hand into the disposal to unclog the jam; if you can see the culprit, use a long utensil to remove it, but if you cannot locate the blockage, it’s best to call a plumber who can safely inspect and remove it for you.

Leaking

Your garbage disposal system has multiple connectivity points that are susceptible to leakage. If a bolt loosens from the vibration of constant uses, you may notice it is no longer water-tight. Additionally, the rubber seals may disintegrate over time and require you to purchase a new system entirely.

Why You Should Call A Plumber To Repair Or Install Your Garbage Disposal

Many people may find it tempting to repair or install their garbage disposal themselves; however, using a qualified and experienced plumber is highly recommended. Since garbage disposals have razor-sharp blades, there is a high likelihood of serious injury for those without proper experience. Additionally, the system requires electricity to run, increasing the chances of electrocution.

Hiring a plumber experienced with garbage disposal replacement, installation, and repairs is the best way to avoid the risk of injury and ensure the system is installed correctly.

How To Choose The Right Plumber

When looking for a plumber equipped to install garbage disposal, experience is key. They should be well versed in repairs and installation to ensure the job is done right the first time. It is also very important that the plumber has a license and insurance.

Start looking for an expert plumber for garbage disposal installation, repair and replacement today!