Tips for Garbage Disposal Repair
The garbage disposal unit is probably one of the least cared for appliances in the kitchen. Perhaps due to the nature of its job or because it’s always hidden from view, positioned as it is under the kitchen sink, you probably tend not to really notice it until it decides to do a number on you!
If your garbage disposal has decided to give you the ‘silent’ treatment, it could be due to a number of reasons. One of the most common is an electrical problem with the unit and its wiring. Try pressing the Reset button at the bottom of the unit. If this does not help, check if a circuit breaker trip has witched off the electrical service panel. Still no luck? Try replacing the switch (the one that you use to switch on the unit). Remember to turn off the power supply to the garbage disposal before attempting any type of repair. If all this doesn’t help, you may need a new garbage disposal unit.
If your garbage disposal leaks at the dishwasher connection, tighten the clamp on the dishwasher hose or replace the hose if it has begun leaking. If there is a leak at the discharge pipes, remove all bolts, replace the gasket and tighten the bolts once again.
A slow-draining or clogged garbage disposal is another common complaint. This could be because of a clogged drain line in your garbage disposal. NEVER use regular chemical drain cleaners to clear your unit. They are not meant for a garbage disposal and you’ll only end up damaging the unit. Unscrew the bolts that connect the discharge pipe to the disposal and check the drain trap and discharge pipe for any clogs or obstructions. If you can’t find any, the clog is further down the line and needs to be cleared with a sink augur.
Please remember, these are just emergency tips to repair your garbage disposal. Do not attempt a full scale repair –and we cannot stress this enough- unless you are qualified to do so. If you are not, please contact a professional technician.
* Disposals vary, so consult your owner's manual or call a professional!
|
Plumbing In Austin © 
