Troubleshooting and Maintenance Tips
Garbage disposals are invaluable appliances in modern kitchens, efficiently grinding up food scraps and preventing them from clogging the kitchen sink. However, like any other household appliance, garbage disposals can experience issues over time. Here are a some common problems with garbage disposals and some helpful tips for troubleshooting and repair.
Common Issues:
- Jamming:
- Symptoms: The disposal makes a humming noise but doesn’t grind, or it stops working altogether.
- Solution: Turn off the disposal and unplug it. Use a hex key or a disposal wrench to manually rotate the blades and dislodge any jammed food particles. Once cleared, plug the disposal back in and reset it.
- Leaks:
- Symptoms: Water pooling under the sink or around the garbage disposal unit.
- Solution: Check for loose or damaged connections. Tighten any loose bolts or hose clamps, and replace any damaged parts, such as the flange or gasket. If the leak persists, it may be a sign of a more significant issue, and professional assistance may be required.
- Strange Noises:
- Symptoms: Grinding, squealing, or rattling sounds during operation.
- Solution: Foreign objects, such as utensils or hard items, may be causing the noise. Turn off the disposal, unplug it, and inspect the grinding chamber for any obstructions. Remove any foreign objects and restart the disposal.
- Clogs:
- Symptoms: Slow drainage or water backing up into the sink.
- Solution: Run cold water while operating the disposal to help flush away debris. Avoid putting fibrous or starchy foods, grease, and large food particles down the disposal. If clogs persist a snake may be needed to clear the drain.
Maintenance Tips:
- Regular Cleaning:
- To prevent foul odors and maintain optimal performance, periodically grind ice cubes, citrus peels, or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar in the disposal.
- Avoid Hard or Fibrous Materials:
- Refrain from putting bones, fruit pits, coffee grounds, and fibrous foods like celery or banana peels into the disposal, as they can cause damage or clogs.
- Use Cold Water:
- Run cold water for at least 15 seconds before and after using the disposal to help flush away debris.
- Professional Assistance:
- If problems persist or if you are uncomfortable performing repairs, please contact us, and we would love to help with your repairs.
Proper maintenance and timely troubleshooting can extend the lifespan of your garbage disposal. By addressing issues promptly and following preventive measures, you can keep your kitchen running smoothly and avoid the inconvenience of a malfunctioning garbage disposal.