Garbage Disposal Repair
Whatever the problem, dealing with garbage disposal repair is no walk in the park. Day & Night has your back. Our expert technicians are here to tackle those common disposal issues head-on so you can get your kitchen back up and running as soon as possible. Say goodbye to the headache and hello to hassle-free disposal repairs with Day & Night.
Why Your Garbage Disposal Is Not Working
Humming Sounds
If your garbage disposal is humming but not working, it could have a jam or obstruction. Large food particles and foreign objects stuck in the disposal are often to blame, preventing the blades from rotating properly.
Waste Or Odor Leak
A foul odor or waste leaking from your garbage disposal indicates a malfunction. This could stem from damaged seals, loose connections, or even cracks in the disposal unit.
Blade Jamming
When blades jam, you may hear a grinding or clicking noise, or the unit may stop functioning altogether. This can occur due to overloading the disposal with too much food waste or attempting to grind tough items like bones or fibrous vegetables.
Slow or No Draining
A slow-draining or blocked sink often indicates a problem with the garbage disposal. This could be due to accumulated food particles, grease buildup, or a clog in the disposal or drain pipes.
Fruit Flies
Fruit flies hovering around your garbage disposal could indicate organic matter buildup or decaying food residue. These pests are attracted to the moist, nutrient-rich environment created by food waste, highlighting the need for a thorough cleaning.
Water Backup
Experiencing water backup in your sink when running the garbage disposal signals a drainage problem. This could result from a clog in the disposal, drainpipe, or main sewer line.
How to Fix a Malfunctioning Garbage Disposal
Garbage Disposal Not Turning On
- Check the power supply: Ensure the disposal is plugged in securely and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped.
- Reset the disposal: Locate and press the reset button to reboot the motor.
- Inspect wiring: Look for damaged or loose wires, and tighten or replace them if necessary.
Garbage Disposal Humming But Not Working
- Turn off the power: Unplug the disposal and locate the jam.
- Free the mechanism: Use an Allen wrench to rotate the grinding mechanism and dislodge the obstruction.
Garbage Disposal Leaking
- Identify the source: Check for leaks around the sink flange, dishwasher connection, or discharge pipe.
- Tighten connections: Use a wrench to secure loose bolts or fittings.
- Replace seals: If the leak persists, replace the disposal’s seals or gaskets.
Garbage Disposal Draining Slow
- Clear blockages: Remove visible debris or food particles from the disposal.
- Flush with water: Run cold water through the disposal to dislodge any remaining debris.
- Use a plunger: If the drain remains slow, use a plunger to remove stubborn clogs.
Garbage Disposal Cleaner
Keep your garbage disposal fresh and clean with these simple cleaning tips:
Our Recommended Cleaning Methods
1. Vinegar and Baking Soda Method
- Pour half a cup of baking soda into the disposal.
- Follow with one cup of vinegar.
- Let the mixture fizz for a few minutes to break down the residue.
- Flush the disposal with hot water.
- For extra freshness, grind up citrus peels in the disposal.
2. Ice Cube and Lemon Method
- Fill an ice cube tray with vinegar and freeze.
- Drop a few vinegar ice cubes into the disposal.
- Turn on the disposal and let the ice cubes clean the blades.
- Follow with lemon slices or peels to deodorize.
Maintenance Tips
- Run cold water while using the disposal to help solidify grease and oils, making them easier to flush.
- Avoid putting fibrous or starchy foods (like potato peels or celery) into the disposal, as they can clog the blades.
- Regularly clean the rubber splash guard and the rubber flange to prevent food particle buildup that causes foul odors.
FAQs
How can I remove build-up from my garbage disposal?
To safely tackle build-up in your garbage disposal, follow these steps:
- Turn off the power
- Scrub the interior
- Finish with baking soda and vinegar
How do you clean a garbage disposal without removing it?
Use household products and some elbow grease to clean the inside chamber and outer components.
Will baking soda and vinegar unclog a garbage disposal?
While baking soda and vinegar can help loosen small clogs, they won’t dissolve large ones caused by bones or excessive waste. Manual removal of blockages from the grinding teeth or drain line is necessary for stubborn clogs.
Will unplugging a garbage disposal reset it?
Press the reset button on your garbage disposal to reset it. If the button pops back out after restoring power, wait about 10 minutes before trying again.
Why is my garbage disposal locked up?
Garbage disposals typically lock up due to large bits of food jammed between the impeller blade and the drain hole.
How do you unjam a garbage disposal?
Insert a 1/4” or 5/16” Allen wrench into the hole at the bottom of the disposal. Work the wrench back and forth to release any trapped food or debris.
Garbage Disposal Repair in Phoenix, AZ
For reliable garbage disposal repair services in Phoenix, AZ, trust Day and Night. With our 24/7 availability and skilled plumbers ready to assist on-site, we’re committed to keeping your kitchen running smoothly. Contact us today for prompt and professional solutions.
