Process of Un-Jamming Garbage Disposal

Posted on: 12 October 2015

Garbage disposals are designed to make it easier for you to get rid of food waste in your home using the simplest method possible. However, even though a garbage disposal is designed to add convenience to your life, it can also be a major plumbing problem when it is not functioning properly. If you have noticed that your garbage disposal will no longer turn on or will stop running unexpectedly, it is most likely jammed. Before you call a professional plumber to handle the job, it is possible to un-jam a garbage disposal on your own if you know what the process entails.

Unplug Disposal

Before you begin trying to un-jam your disposal, it is always recommended that you begin by unplugging your disposal. Whenever you are going to have your hands around the garbage disposal, it is best to make sure that it is unplugged. This will allow you to have optimal levels of safety when you are trying to complete repairs. Simply turning of the switch is not suggested; you should unplug the cord from the outlet. If there is no cord and it is powered directly, you should turn it off at the breaker box.

Look For Cause

Once you have turned off the power to your garbage disposal, you should use a flashlight to look for what might be the cause of the jam. This could be a food particle or anything that could have found its way into the disposer. Make sure to remove the splashguard when you are looking for the cause of the jam. If you see an object that might be keeping your garbage disposal from working properly, you can use pliers to remove the item.

Let Motor Cool

It is important that you do not try restarting your garbage disposal until the motor is cooled. This means that if your garbage disposal was on before you turned it off to remove item causing the jam, you should let the motor cool for a few minutes. After a few minutes, you can turn the power back on and hit the reset button on your garbage disposal. It is possible to find the reset button on the side or underneath the disposal. Your disposal should be un-jammed, but if it is still not working properly, you can use a spatula or wooden spoon to stick into the disposal blade. By rocking the blades, you may be able to free the turntable that has become lodged. This should correct any other issues.

If the problem persists, consider contacting a professional plumbing company Melbourne has to offer.

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