Clear The Drain Pipe
Clearing the drain pipe isn’t difficult, but it can often be complex as the issue you’re trying to diagnose can be hidden just beneath the surface. Different disposals are built with different sizes and designs, so you may need to reach deep beneath the sink and feel around for some clogging material that could be causing an issue.
Make sure to take your time when doing this, as it’s easy to miss a blockage that may be hidden in the pipes. To help make things easier, use an inexpensive plumber’s snake or garb-o-matic tool to further down and clear away any debris clogging up your drain line. This will help ensure that you don’t have any remaining blockage that may be hindering the performance of your disposal.
Secure Any Connections
Understanding how the drainpipe connection works, and the parts that compose it, can help you identify potential causes of your problem. Start by keeping track of the plumbing pieces – such as the sink flange, filter, slip-joint nuts, and washers – to ensure all are tightly secured together. To check for any gaps via air testing, plug the sink drains and run water into both sides of your garbage disposal.
If air bubbles appear on either side when you check near all pipe junctions, this indicates a leak with one or more leaking connections. Ensure to properly inspect all fittings and tighten up any necessary screws while cautioning not to over-tighten them, which could cause additional damage in the long run.
Check The Flywheel
A primary source of most garbage disposal issues is the flywheel, which helps spin the blades in the unit and grind food particles. If you suspect the flywheel might be at fault, checking that it is spinning when you turn it on is important. If you can feel it spinning but still hear a grinding noise, this could indicate that some object has become stuck in the impellers.
Typically, screws are all needed to access the flywheel and remove any debris that may be stuck inside. With a flashlight, you should then be able to inspect the flywheel and determine if it needs additional attention. On the other hand, if no movement is felt, then it could mean that your garbage disposal needs to be serviced or replaced altogether.
Remove The Disposal
If all else fails, you may need to remove the garbage disposal to inspect it properly. You’ll need a bucket, pliers, and an adjustable wrench to do this. Start by putting a bucket beneath the disposal unit and turning off the power before loosening the slip-joint nut screws with your pliers. Next, use your adjustable wrench to unscrew the mounting screws of the disposal before carefully sliding it out.
Once you have successfully removed it, inspect for any excess buildup clogging up your unit and clear away debris if necessary. Be sure to properly clean off the blades and ensure all parts are working correctly before re-installing the garbage disposal. After restoring the disposal, run a few tests as you turn it on again.
Use These Tips To Troubleshoot A Broken Garbage Disposal!
Diagnosing and repairing a broken garbage disposal issue can be overwhelming for most homeowners. With the above tips and tricks in mind, however, you should now have all the tools necessary for tackling these problems – enabling you to rectify any issues with your garbage disposal in no time! Remember that if you run into any issues you can’t fix on your own, it’s best to contact a professional plumber for assistance. They have the expertise necessary to take care of any tougher problems that may arise.
