Once you’ve gotten used to using a garbage disposal, it’s often hard to imagine how you ever lived without one. When your garbage disposal jams, not only are you reminded of what life was like without one, but you are also presented with a potentially serious situation if you don’t handle it properly.
Williams Plumbing & Drain offers professional support in Tulsa, OK, and surrounding areas. Today, we’re focusing on a common household issue — how to fix a jammed garbage disposal. Before you attempt any DIY fixes, remember that tinkering with your garbage disposal without proper knowledge can be dangerous. Follow these tips to keep safe.
Understanding Garbage Disposals and Common Issues
Garbage disposals are a modern convenience found in many kitchens, helping to manage kitchen waste by grinding up food scraps and disposing of them through the sink drain. However, like any appliance, a garbage disposal can encounter problems. One of the most common issues is a jam, typically caused by foreign objects or overloading.
Identifying the Problem
When your garbage disposal unit stops working, the first sign might be a humming sound, indicating that the motor is jammed. If the disposal doesn’t make any noise, it could be an electrical issue, possibly with the power switch, power cord, or circuit breaker.
Initial Checks and Safety Precautions
Before proceeding with any repairs, make sure the power to the unit is off. Turn the power switch to the off position and unplug it from the wall outlet.
Never put your hand inside the disposal, even when it’s off. Instead, use a flashlight to look for any visible foreign objects caught in the disposal.
How to Unjam Your Garbage Disposal
Most garbage disposals have a reset button located at the bottom of the unit. Press this to see if it resolves the issue. If the disposal is still jammed, insert an Allen wrench into the hole at the bottom of the disposal unit. Gently wrench back and forth to free up the grinding plates. Then, run cold water to help move any dislodged items.
Restoring Power and Testing the Disposal
After clearing the jam, restore power by plugging the disposal back into the wall outlet and flipping the power switch. Turn on the cold water and test the disposal. If it runs smoothly, you’ve successfully fixed the jam. If the problem persists or the unit trips the internal circuit breaker, it’s time to call the pros.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
While some garbage disposal problems can be resolved with simple steps, others might suffer from more serious issues, such as poor draining or damage to the internal circuitry. If your disposal is not functioning after following these steps, or if it frequently becomes jammed, it’s time to call a professional plumber. Continued issues could cause extensive damage to your disposal or plumbing system.
At Williams Plumbing & Drain, we provide comprehensive solutions to all your plumbing needs, including garbage disposal repair and maintenance. Attempting to fix complex issues without proper tools or expertise can lead to further damage or even injury. Let our experienced team handle it for you.
Contact Us for Garbage Disposal Services in Tulsa, OK, and Nearby Areas
Handling a jammed garbage disposal can be straightforward if you know the right steps, but there’s always a risk involved when dealing with electrical appliances and sharp blades. For any garbage disposal issues, or if you’re unsure about performing repairs yourself, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our team is ready to provide the professional service you need to maintain a functional and safe kitchen.
For all your plumbing and garbage disposal needs in Tulsa, OK, and the surrounding areas, contact Williams Plumbing & Drain today. We’re committed to helping you maintain a smoothly running home, which is why we offer expert plumbing services as well as sewer and drain cleaning. Let us take care of the dirty work so you can enjoy the comfort and convenience of your home without the hassle!