General Plumbing

If your garbage disposal is not working, there are a few things you can do to fix it yourself. First, determine whether the jam is in the disposal or in the pipe. If there is no power going to the disposal, then the problem is likely in the pipe. If there is power going to the disposal but it’s not working, then you may have to replace parts.

The first thing you should do when attempting to repair a garbage disposal jam is turn off the power at the breaker box. Then remove any large items that may be obstructing your unit from functioning properly: cups, large utensils, etc. Once these items are out of the way, turn on your faucet and let the water run through your pipes for about 10 minutes so that they’re flushed out thoroughly before trying again with your garbage disposal (or vice versa).

If none of these steps work for you, contact an electrician or plumber for professional help.

Here are some steps to repair a leaking garbage disposal unit:

1. Turn off the power: Turn off the power supply to the garbage disposal unit to avoid electrical shock.
2. Locate the source of the leak: Look under the sink and try to determine where the leak is coming from.
3. Tighten loose connections: If the leak is coming from a loose connection, tighten any screws or nuts to secure the connection.
4. Replace a damaged gasket or seal: If the leak is coming from a damaged gasket or seal, replace it with a new one.
5. Check the disposal unit itself: If the leak is coming from the disposal unit itself, inspect it for cracks or damage. If the unit is damaged, it may need to be replaced.
6. Turn the power back on: After making repairs, turn the power supply back on and test the disposal for leaks.

If you are not confident in your ability to repair a leak, it may be best to consult a professional plumber to avoid causing further damage to your disposal or plumbing.

1. Check the power source: Make sure the disposal is properly plugged in and the outlet has power. If it’s hardwired, check the circuit breaker or fuse.
2. Reset the disposal: Locate the red or black reset button located near the base of the unit and press it.
3. Clear jam: If the disposal is jammed with food or other debris, turn off the power and use a wrench or pliers to manually turn the blades to clear the jam.
4. Replace the fuse or reset the circuit breaker if tripped.
5. Check the switch: If the disposal still won’t turn on, the switch may be faulty. Locate the switch near the sink and test it with a multimeter to see if it’s working properly.

If none of these steps work, the problem may be with the motor or other internal components, and you may need to replace the disposal or call a professional for repair.

The cost of repairing a garbage disposal can vary depending on several factors such as the type of repair needed, the brand and model of the disposal, and the location. On average, the cost of repairing a garbage disposal can range from $100 to $400, with a more comprehensive repair being closer to the higher end of that range. It’s always best to consult a professional plumber for a more accurate estimate.