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Garbage Disposal Repair Guide

mediumHome Repair1 hr

This guide provides a step-by-step approach to troubleshooting and fixing a malfunctioning garbage disposal for homeowners. You will learn how to safely reset your unit, check electrical connections, and use basic tools to restore your kitchen's functionality.

Safety Warnings

  • Always disconnect the power at the wall outlet or main circuit breaker before examining or making repairs to prevent electric shock.
  • Never put your hands inside the garbage disposal chamber, even if the power is off, as the blades are extremely sharp.

Tools Needed

Phillips #2 — screwdriver
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adjustable 8-inch — wrench
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needle-nose pliers — long-handled
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hex wrench — 1/4-inch
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flashlight — LED
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Materials

plumber's putty — clay-like sealant(1 pack)
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baking soda — powder(1 box)
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white vinegar — liquid(1 bottle)
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Steps

1
Cut power to the unit by unplugging it from the wall outlet or flipping the corresponding circuit breaker in the main electrical panel. Confirm power is off by attempting to turn the disposal on.
2
Check the power supply and electrical circuit. Ensure the plug hasn't been knocked loose from the outlet. If the unit is plugged in but silent, check the main electrical panel to see if the breaker has tripped.
3
Reset the garbage disposal by locating the small red reset button usually found on the side or bottom of the under-sink unit. Press the button firmly once and release.
Reset Button Disposal Unit Press firmly Once and release Locate and press the red reset button on the bottom of the unit.
4
Clear jams by inserting a 1/4-inch hex wrench into the depression at the bottom center of the disposal. Twist the wrench back and forth firmly to rotate the flywheel and free the stuck item. Use needle-nose pliers to retrieve any remaining foreign objects from the drain.
Disposal unit Bottom socket 1/4-inch hex wrench Twist back and forth Insert wrench into the base and rotate to manually clear the flywheel jam.
5
Fix leaks by inspecting the plumbing lines. If the leak is at the top, remove the unit and reseal the sink flange with a rope of plumber's putty. If the leak is on the side, tighten the metal clamp on the dishwasher hose or replace the rubber gasket in the main drain pipe.
Sink Flange Unit Body Drain Pipe Putty Rope Apply Seal Press Firmly Reseal the sink flange with a rope of plumber's putty to stop top-leaks.
6
Clean the unit to remove residue and odors. Pour 1/4 cup of baking soda followed by 1/2 cup of white vinegar into the disposal. Let the mixture fizz for 5 to 10 minutes, then flush with hot water.
7
Test the repair by reconnecting the power and running the faucet. Turn on the disposal and check for smooth operation and a lack of leaks.

Pro Tips

  • To prevent future clogs, avoid putting animal bones, nuts, potato peels, coffee grounds, and fibrous vegetables like celery down the disposal.
  • Run the disposal with plenty of water and allow it to run for a few seconds after grinding is complete to clear residual bits.
  • When to Call a Professional: Contact a licensed plumber or electrician if the motor is burnt out, the housing is cracked, or if you are uncomfortable working with electrical wiring.

When to Call a Professional

If the disposal is jammed and the reset button does not work, or you see water leaking from the bottom, call a licensed plumber.

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