Greetings, neighbors and homeowners! I’m here to share some seasoned advice on a common kitchen issue – a jammed garbage disposal. As an experienced plumber with years in the industry, I’ve seen my fair share of stuck disposals, and I’m here to guide you through the process of fixing it yourself.
Before we begin, it’s crucial to remember safety. Please ensure the garbage disposal is completely switched off before attempting any work. This means either unplugging it or turning off the circuit breaker. And remember, never reach into the disposal with your hands, always use tools like long-handled tongs or pliers.
Let’s get started on diagnosing the issue. Often, a jammed disposal can be caused by various factors, from foreign objects to food buildup or even mechanical malfunctions. Here’s how we’ll proceed:
1. Turn Off the Power
As mentioned, ensure the disposal is completely powered off before proceeding.
2. Investigate for Objects
Grab a flashlight and take a peek inside the disposal chamber. Look for any foreign objects that might be causing the jam. If you see anything, use tongs or pliers to carefully remove them. Remember, safety first!
3. Reset the System
Most garbage disposals have a reset button located at the bottom. Give it a press to see if this resolves the issue. If the disposal is jammed, the reset button may have popped out as a safety feature.
4. Manual Cranking
Certain disposals come with a specialized tool, often an Allen wrench, that fits into the bottom center of the disposal. This tool allows you to manually crank the disposal, hopefully freeing up whatever is causing the jam. Insert the wrench and turn it clockwise and counterclockwise a few times. It might require some effort, but persistence pays off.
5. Ice and Rock Salt
For food buildup jams, try adding a few handfuls of ice cubes and a handful of rock salt into the disposal. Turn it on and run cold water. The ice will help dislodge stuck food particles, while the salt will aid in scrubbing the blades clean.
6. Vinegar and Baking Soda
Another effective DIY trick involves using vinegar and baking soda. Pour a cup of baking soda into the disposal, followed by a cup of vinegar. Let it sit for a few minutes, then flush it with hot water. This can help break up food particles and grease.
7. Call a Professional
If these methods don’t do the trick, it may be time to call in a professional plumber. Here at Saving Grace Plumbing, we’re not just your typical plumbing service. We’re your trusted, state-licensed, certified, and award-winning team serving Rockwall, TX, and surrounding areas. Our plumbers aren’t just highly skilled and experienced; they’re also reliable, honest, and downright friendly! We take pride in being the friendliest folks you’ll ever meet in the plumbing business.
Why wait, please call (214) 635-4757 today!
