Troubleshooting Common Issues with Garbage Disposals

At Willowbrook Plumbing & Heating, we understand that a working garbage disposal is a key component of any efficient modern kitchen. However, like any other home appliance, it isn't immune to issues, and that's why we've compiled this guide to help you troubleshoot common garbage disposal problems. If the problem persists, remember we're just a call away!

Jammed Garbage Disposal

A jammed garbage disposal is among the most common issues homeowners encounter. This typically happens when hard objects such as bones, fruit pits, or utensils accidentally get into the disposal. You'll know it's jammed if it hums but doesn't grind, or if it trips the breaker. Before calling a professional, try to use the small, supplied wrench under the garbage disposal to manually unjam it.

Leaky Garbage Disposal

Leaks can occur for a variety of reasons such as cracks in the body, loose drain lines, faulty seals, or even a loose sink flange. To know where the problem lies, try to identify the source of the leak and tighten any loose connections. If the body of the disposal is cracked, a replacement might be necessary.

Overheated Garbage Disposal

If your system doesn’t turn on, it might have overheated because of being overworked or filled with extremely hard material. Most disposals come with an inbuilt feature for such instances — a reset button underneath the unit. Simply reset it and see if the system starts operating again.

Dull Blades

Dull blades will affect the efficiency of your garbage disposal. Although you can't physically sharpen the blades, regularly grinding ice cubes can help maintain the sharpness and the overall functionality of the disposal.

Unpleasant Odors

If your disposal begins to smell bad, the likely culprit is food debris caught in the impellers or the drain line. A simple mix of baking soda and vinegar, or citrus peels, can help eliminate the nasty odors.

While some garbage disposal issues can be managed at home with our guide, certain circumstances require professional attention. You should always prioritize safety over saving a few dollars, and call a professional if you're unsure about a DIY resolution. Willowbrook Plumbing & Heating is just a call away for all your garbage disposal repair needs. Contact us today, and let us bring ease and efficiency back into your kitchen.

All in all, maintaining your garbage disposal unit prolongs its life and saves you money along the way. Facing any issues that you cannot solve? Don't worry! The team at Willowbrook Plumbing & Heating is always ready to help. Contact us today and get your garbage disposal issues fixed professionally!