Roto-Rooter Blog
Grinding It Out: Mastering Garbage Disposal Maintenance
Welcome to our comprehensive guide on garbage disposal care and troubleshooting. In this edition, we'll dig into common disposal dilemmas, offer practical DIY fixes, and highlight when it's time to call in the pros.
Garbage disposals are kitchen workhorses, but even these sturdy appliances can hit a snag. Let's break down typical issues and their solutions:
Common Disposal Dilemmas and Quick Fixes
The Hum of Frustration: When It's All Noise, No Action
When your garbage disposal is making a lot of noise and creates no action, consider:
• Likely culprit: Jammed unit
• DIY remedy:
Cut the power
Manually turn the grinding plate
Fish out any visible obstacles
Hit that reset button
Silent Treatment: When Your Disposal Goes Quiet
• Check the basics: Power supply and circuit breaker
• Try the reset button
• If it's still giving you the cold shoulder, the motor might be toast
Eau de Garbage: Battling Disposal Stink
• Grind up some ice cubes and citrus peels for a quick refresh
• For deeper cleaning, scrub with a baking soda paste, then rinse thoroughly
Slow-Mo Drainage: When Water Lingers
Experiencing slow drainage in your sinks or showers can be more than just an inconvenience; it often signals underlying plumbing issues that need attention. When water lingers in your drains, it can lead to unpleasant odors, potential water damage, and even more severe plumbing problems if not addressed promptly.
• Always run cold water during operation
• Avoid tossing in fibrous or starchy foods
• For minor clogs, break out the plunger
Waterworks: Dealing with Leaks
• Pinpoint the leak source (top, sides, or bottom)
• Tighten connections for top or side leaks
• If it's leaking from the bottom, start shopping for a replacement unit
When to Wave the White Flag and Call a Pro
While many disposal hiccups can be sorted at home, some situations call for expert hands. Consider reaching out when:
Jams become a recurring headache
You suspect electrical gremlins
Serious leaks spring up, especially from the unit's underbelly
Strange noises persist after you've cleared visible obstructions
Your disposal gives up the ghost entirely
Clogs happen so often you're on a first-name basis with your plunger
Why Go Pro?
Skilled technicians bring to the table:
Swift diagnosis and repair
Expert maintenance tips to keep your disposal grinding happily
New disposal installation know-how
Comprehensive plumbing solutions for issues beyond just the disposal
Remember, DIY enthusiasm is great, but improper handling of garbage disposals can lead to injuries or turn a small problem into a big one. When in doubt, it's best to consult a professional.
Don't let disposal drama disrupt your culinary adventures. When things get dicey, reach out to a professional plumbing service for efficient, reliable assistance to keep your kitchen humming along smoothly. Contact us now for more information on obtaining our professional garbage disposal repair and installation services.
50+
Expert Technicians
In Our Service Area
'Garbage Disposal Tips with Jason Hawes'
(video below)
