Repairing a Garbage Disposal (Disposer)

We enjoy the convenience of the in sink garbage disposal until, that is, it stops working. Many problems, such as jams, you can repair yourself. This is a guide about repairing a garbage disposal.

Videos

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How to Install & Replace a Garbage Disposer

This short video series features Joe Wise, owner of Built Wise Construction, teaching you how to replace a broken garbage disposal. Be sure to watch the related videos for additional steps and more garbage disposal replacement tips.

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Solutions: Repairing a Garbage Disposal (Disposer)

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Repairing a Garbage Disposal

If your disposal hums but doesn't turn:

Turn the power off.

Use a flashlight to check if something is stuck.

If there appears to be something stuck, unplug the disposal or shut off the breaker before putting your hand in to remove the object.

If there is no apparent blockage, use the "Z" shaped wrench that came with the disposal, insert in the bottom and turn.

If you can't find the wrench, a broom handle inserted into the disposal and turned will do in a pinch.

If there was no hum, check to make sure it is plugged in and/or the breaker wasn't tripped.

If this doesn't work, replace the disposal.

By Dakota from Denver, CO

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Questions

Here are questions related to Repairing a Garbage Disposal (Disposer).

Garbage Disposal Won't Chop

Which way is a garbage disposal suppose to spin clockwise or counter clockwise?

By Ez from Cincinnati

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Most Recent Answer

By Anonymous 11/09/2011

PS, I have no clue which direction a disposal spins. You could probably find out by calling a disposal manufacturer. ;-)

Clearing a Garbage Disposal

How do you clear a garbage disposal?

By Nancy S

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Most Recent Answer

By foxrun41 07/12/2012

You say clearing not cleaning so, Every disposal comes with an allen wrench that fits into a hole made to accept the wrench in the bottom of the disposal. Turn the wrench counterclock wise. If you do not have the wrench go to a hardware store or a big box store and buy one. The people in the appliance or plumbing area will know what they are and how to use it. If you mean cleaning run ice cubes through the unit.

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