Your Garbage Disposal Is Broken…Now What?
So you’ve discovered that your garbage disposal is broken and you are wondering what to do next. It is important to be aware of the signs of a broken garbage disposal. This can help you determine how to best fix it as well as know how to prevent future problems. Learn about garabage disposals with Stephens Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning.
Signs of a Broken Garbage Disposal
Your garbage disposal may be broken because of a leak, a clog, or a breakage. Stephens discusses the different signs for each.
Garbage Disposal Leak Signs
There are many signs that your garbage disposal may be leaking. There could be a leak if there is flooding under your sink or the area is soggy. If you are trying to use the garbage disposal and you hear water dripping from underneath your sink, there is most likely a leak. Another sign that there is a leak is if you smell rotten food coming from the area below the sink.
Garbage Disposal Clog Signs
Your garbage disposal is most likely clogged if the sink is backed up with food remains. Other signs include a foul odor and unusual noises when turning the disposal on.
Garbage Disposal Breakage Signs
Signs that your garbage disposal is breaking include loud noises, it won’t turn on, there’s an odor present, and it is taking too long to break down the food.
Garbage Disposal Fixes
Before calling a plumber, you may be able to fix your garbage disposal on your own. Here are a few ways to fix leaks and unclog the disposal.
Leak Fixes
If the leak is coming from the top of the disposal, you have to install a new plumber’s putty. If the leak is coming from the side, you have to tighten the clamp that connects your garbage disposal to your dishwasher. Lastly, if the leak is coming from the bottom, you are going to have to replace it.
Unclogging
Some ways you can unclog your garbage disposal are by plunging it as well as by removing the trap to clean it.
How to Prevent Future Problems
You can prevent potential problems by educating yourself about what can and what can’t go down the garbage disposal.
What Can Go Down the Garbage Disposal
To ensure your garbage disposal works correctly, it is important to know what you can put in it. Small food items, biodegradable foods, dish soap, and cold water can be placed in the garbage disposal.
What Cannot Go Down the Garbage Disposal
To avoid leaks, clogs, or breakage, you must avoid putting any metal, bones, coffee grounds, grease, oil, harsh chemicals, and larger food items down the disposal.
How to Clean Your Garbage Disposal
Cleaning your garbage disposal regularly can help prevent problems. A baking soda and vinegar solution can help with the odor as well as using citrus.
Call Stephens for Extra Help
If your garbage disposal requires extra assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact the professionals at Stephens Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning. If you believe you need total disposal replacement, our trained technicians will help as doing it on your own can be very stressful and even dangerous. We offer quick, affordable services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. We look forward to serving you.