When your garbage disposal jams or quits working, it can be a frustrating experience. Fortunately, you may be able to fix it yourself by resetting your garbage disposal.
Resetting your garbage disposal is a quick and easy task that can save you from having to call a professional plumber. In this article, we will go over the steps to reset your garbage disposal and troubleshoot any issues that you may be experiencing.
Before we begin, it is important to make sure that your garbage disposal is turned off and unplugged. You should also familiarize yourself with the location of your circuit breaker in case you need to turn off the power to your disposal.
Step 1: Check the Reset Button
The first thing you should do when trying to reset your garbage disposal is to locate the reset button. It is usually located on the bottom of the disposal unit and is typically red or black. If your garbage disposal has a red reset button, you should press and hold it for about 15 seconds before releasing it. If the button is black, you should simply press it and then release it.
Step 2: Check the Power
If pressing the reset button does not work, you should check the power to your garbage disposal. You can do this by unplugging the unit and checking the outlet to make sure it is functioning properly. If the outlet is not working, you may need to reset the circuit breaker.
Step 3: Check the Grinding Chamber
If the power to your garbage disposal is working and the reset button has been pressed, you should check the grinding chamber for debris or foreign objects that may be causing the issue. You can do this by using a flashlight to look inside the chamber. If you see any debris, you can try to remove it using tongs or a pair of pliers. Be sure to exercise caution when doing this, as the grinding chamber can be sharp.
Step 4: Check the Mounting Hardware
If the grinding chamber is clear and the reset button has been pressed, you should check the mounting hardware to make sure everything is tightened properly. The mounting hardware consists of bolts that hold the garbage disposal to the sink and keep it in place. If these bolts are loose, it can cause the disposal to become misaligned and not work properly.
Step 5: Check the Drainpipe
If the mounting hardware is tightened and the reset button has been pressed, you should check the drainpipe to see if there are any clogs or debris that may be causing the issue. You can do this by using a flashlight to look inside the pipe. If you see debris, you can try to remove it using a plumbing snake or a pair of pliers. Be sure to exercise caution when doing this, as the drainpipe can be sharp.
Step 6: Check the Flywheel
If all the above steps have been completed and the garbage disposal is still not working, you may need to check the flywheel. The flywheel is a small cog that is located inside the grinding chamber and is responsible for turning the blades of the disposal. If the flywheel is not turning properly, it can cause the disposal to malfunction. You can try to fix this issue by gently tapping the flywheel with a screwdriver or a hammer. Be sure to exercise caution when doing this, as the flywheel can be fragile.
Step 7: Call a Professional
If none of the above steps have helped to reset your garbage disposal, it may be time to call a professional. Aspinwall Plumbing and Heating will be able to diagnose the issue and repair your garbage disposal in a timely and efficient manner.
Call Aspinwall for Your Garbage Disposal Needs
If your garbage disposal is acting up and home remedies don’t help, Aspinwall Plumbing & Heating is here to help! We’ve been helping homeowners in communities in and around the South Shore for more than 50 years. Our qualified technicians have years of experience in all things plumbing, including garbage disposal repair in Quincy, MA, and surrounding communities. If you’re looking to upgrade, we also offer garbage disposal replacement.
Get your garbage disposal problems fixed fast! Call Aspinwall at (617) 539-7672 today to schedule your appointment.