Can you fix a jammed garbage disposal?

A jammed garbage disposal can be a frustrating experience, especially when you’re in the midst of preparing a meal or cleaning up the kitchen. However, before calling a professional plumber and incurring unnecessary expenses, it’s worth attempting to fix the issue yourself. In this article, we will explore the steps to troubleshoot and potentially fix a jammed garbage disposal using simple and safe methods.

Understanding a Jammed Garbage Disposal:

Before delving into the troubleshooting process, it’s important to grasp the basic workings of a garbage disposal unit. A garbage disposal is a mechanical device installed underneath the kitchen sink that shreds and disposes of food waste by grinding it into smaller particles. Common causes of a jammed garbage disposal include:

1. Solid or fibrous food material: Items like potato peels, bones, fruit pits, and fibrous vegetables can jam the disposal by getting caught in the shredding mechanism.
2. Lack of water flow: Without sufficient water flowing while using the disposal, food can accumulate and form a clog.
3. Overload or overheating: Overloading the disposal or running it for an extended period can trigger a thermal overload switch that stops the unit from running.

Steps to Fix a Jammed Garbage Disposal:

1. Safety precautions:

• Before attempting any repairs, ensure the power supply to the disposal unit is switched off. This can be done by unplugging it from the electrical outlet or turning off the circuit breaker that controls it.
• Also, use a flashlight to inspect the disposal for any foreign objects and make sure to remove any potential obstacles.

2. Reset the disposal:

• Locate the reset button on the bottom or side of the disposal unit. Press and hold the reset button for a few seconds, which should restart the unit and release any jam.
• If pressing the reset button doesn’t resolve the jam, proceed to the next steps.

3. Manual turning:

• Insert an Allen wrench into the hex-shaped hole located at the bottom of the disposal unit.
• Use the wrench to manually turn the rotor back and forth in order to dislodge any stuck or jammed material.
• Rotate the wrench in both directions until the rotor moves freely.

4. Clearing a clog:

• If the disposal is still jammed, it may have a clogged drain pipe.
• Use a plunger to create a seal around the disposal’s opening, and then vigorously plunge several times to dislodge the clog. Ensure there is enough water in the sink to cover the plunger.
• If the plunger method doesn’t work, remove the drain trap and clear any debris or clogs manually. Use gloves and have a bucket ready to catch any water or waste that may be released.

5. Final steps:

• After clearing the jam, restore the power supply to the garbage disposal and run water down the drain.
• Turn on the disposal and listen for any abnormal sounds or signs of a recurring jam. If the disposal remains jammed or makes irregular noises, it may require professional assistance.

Fixing a jammed garbage disposal is possible in many cases and can save you time and money. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can troubleshoot and potentially resolve the issue on your own. However, it is important to prioritize your safety and know your limitations. If at any point you are unsure or uncomfortable with the process, it’s best to call a professional plumber who can address the problem effectively and safely.