Common Garbage Disposal Problems and Solutions

Common Garbage Disposal Problems and Solutions

Garbage Disposal Troubleshooting

A garbage disposal may not be an absolute necessity, but it is definitely a convenience that is missed when it’s not available. Having a garbage disposal unit makes food disposal quick and easy. Rather than disposing various food waste in the trash can, which can lead to unpleasant odors in the home, you can dispose of food residue from dishes in the sink without worry. An additional plus is that a garbage disposal unit in your home helps the environment by reducing trash waste.

However, like most things, it’s wonderful when it works, but miserable when it doesn’t.

Some garbage disposal problems can be solved with simple fixes that won’t require a professional, but other issues need a plumbing contractor to solve drainage issues. Nothing is worse or smellier than a backed up kitchen sink.

One of the most common problems is a jammed garbage disposal. To see if your disposal is jammed, turn on the disposal and listen for a humming noise, which indicates that food or an item like a utensil is caught in the impellers. First, pour hot water down the drain to see if it will melt or dislodge what is holding it up. If that doesn’t help, someone who knows how to turn off the electrical box and use an offset wrench can get in there and investigate further. But for most, it is safer to call a plumber to handle the piping going to the sewer.

Another issue is a leaking garbage disposal.A leaking disposal can make a huge mess, and is typically is an advanced problem that involves dealing with removing the disposal and checking mounting bolts and using a small about of silicone caulking.

If you’re not tool savvy or sure if you can wrangle a disposal unit, it is easier and more cost effective to call a plumber. Silco Plumbing can assist with your plumbing, heating and cooling, and drain cleaning needs. Contact us for a quote today!

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