How To Fix A Broken Sink Disposal

A broken garbage disposal can be a major inconvenience, especially if you have a lot of dishes to wash. If your disposal is not working properly, don't despair - there are a few things you can do to try to fix it yourself. Before you start troubleshooting, be sure to unplug the disposal from the power outlet to avoid any electrical shock hazards. You'll also need a few basic tools, such as a wrench, a screwdriver, and a pair of pliers.

1. Check for clogs. The most common cause of a broken garbage disposal is a clog. If your disposal is not draining properly, there may be something stuck in the blades. To check for clogs, first remove the splash guard from the top of the disposal. Then, use a flashlight to look inside the disposal chamber. If you see any food or debris stuck in the blades, use a pair of pliers to remove it.

2. Reset the disposal. If there is no clog, the next step is to reset the disposal. To do this, simply press the reset button on the bottom of the disposal. The reset button is usually red or black and is located near the power cord. If the reset button does not work, you can try unplugging the disposal from the power outlet and then plugging it back in.

3. Check for loose connections. If resetting the disposal does not work, the next step is to check for loose connections. To do this, use a wrench to tighten the nuts that hold the disposal in place. You should also check the electrical connections to make sure that they are secure.

4. Check the motor. If the disposal is still not working, the problem may be with the motor. To check the motor, use a multimeter to test the continuity of the motor windings. If the motor windings are not continuous, the motor will need to be replaced.

5. Call a plumber. If you have tried all of the above troubleshooting steps and your disposal is still not working, it is time to call a plumber. A plumber will be able to diagnose the problem and repair the disposal.