A jammed garbage disposal is a common household problem that can disrupt your kitchen routine. While it might seem daunting, unjamming a garbage disposal can often be done safely and quickly with the right steps. In this guide, we’ll walk you through some garbage disposal unjamming tips and explain how to repair garbage disposal issues without causing further damage.
Before we dive in, remember that safety is always the top priority. If you’re uncomfortable performing any of these steps, or if your disposal remains jammed after trying them, it’s best to contact a professional. The experts at Mark Johnson & Sons Plumbing in Ruston, Louisiana, are always available to help with fixing a jammed disposal or any other plumbing issue you may have.
Step 1: Turn Off the Power
The first and most important rule when dealing with a garbage disposal is safety. Before you attempt any repair, make sure the disposal is turned off. Disconnect the power by either unplugging it from the wall outlet or turning off the switch at the circuit breaker.
Never stick your hand into the disposal while the power is on, as this could lead to serious injury. Once you’ve confirmed that the power is off, you’re ready to move on to the next step.
Step 2: Check for Obstructions
One of the most common causes of a jammed garbage disposal is food or foreign objects becoming lodged in the disposal’s grinding mechanism. Use a flashlight to inspect the inside of the disposal. Look for any visible blockages like bones, large food particles, or non-food items that may have fallen in.
If you spot anything, use pliers or tongs to carefully remove the obstruction. Avoid using your hands to prevent injury, even if the power is off.
Step 3: Use the Reset Button
Most garbage disposals have a built-in reset button, usually located at the bottom of the unit. After removing any obstructions, press the reset button, which will typically be a small red or black button. This may reset the motor and clear the jam.
If the reset button doesn’t fix the problem, you may need to move on to the next step for further troubleshooting.
Step 4: Use an Allen Wrench to Manually Turn the Disposal
Many disposals have a manual option to help with unjamming. If your model has a hex-shaped hole at the bottom center of the unit, you can use a 1/4-inch Allen wrench (often called a hex key) to manually turn the grinding mechanism.
Insert the Allen wrench into the hole and rotate it back and forth. You should feel some resistance if there’s a jam. This process helps to dislodge the stuck object. Continue turning the wrench until the mechanism moves freely, which indicates that the jam has been cleared.
Step 5: Test the Disposal
Once you’ve completed the above steps, plug the disposal back in or turn the power back on at the breaker. Run cold water into the sink and flip the disposal switch. If the disposal is working correctly, you should hear it running smoothly without any grinding or buzzing noises.
If the disposal is still jammed or making unusual sounds, it may require more advanced repair. In this case, contact Mark Johnson & Sons Plumbing for professional assistance.
Step 6: Prevent Future Jams
Now that you’ve successfully unjammed your disposal, it’s important to practice good habits to avoid future jams. Here are a few garbage disposal unjamming tips:
- Avoid hard or fibrous foods: Items like bones, coffee grounds, eggshells, and fibrous vegetables (such as celery or potato peels) can cause clogs and jams.
- Run cold water while using the disposal: Always run a steady stream of cold water when the disposal is on. Cold water helps solidify fats and oils, preventing them from clogging the pipes.
- Cut large food scraps into smaller pieces: Instead of throwing large chunks of food into the disposal, cut them into smaller, more manageable pieces.
Following these simple tips can go a long way in keeping your garbage disposal running smoothly and preventing future jams.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve followed all these steps and are still experiencing issues, it’s time to call a professional plumber. Persistent problems could indicate a more serious mechanical issue that requires expert attention. The team at Mark Johnson & Sons Plumbing is experienced in fixing a jammed disposal and can provide reliable, fast service to get your kitchen back on track.
