It seems like every kitchen nowadays is equipped with a garbage disposal, but what happens if those blades stop spinning? You don’t want to risk clogging your pipes with leftover food. When your garbage disposal starts acting up, you need to act. This article can help you figure out whether it’s time to buy a new unit.
Is Your Garbage Disposal Actually Broken?
First off, we need to make sure your garbage disposal is actually out-of-order. Before you call your local plumbing company out to take a look, there are a few things you can do on your own to try to correct the situation. This might be as simple as hitting the little “reset” button on the bottom of your disposal. After an overload, tapping that button might be all it takes to get you back in business.
Another thing to check is if you need to physically unjam the disposal. You might find a small hole for an Allen wrench on the base of the garbage disposal. Fit in the right wrench, and you might be able to turn it enough to free up the locked position. When those efforts fail, then it’s time to think through some other options.
Garbage Disposal Features Overview
Contrary to popular belief, not all garbage disposals are created equal. There are a few key features you might want to keep in mind as you consider your options if it really is time to replace your unit. The first one is whether your garbage disposal will have its own electrical cord. These will be easier to hookup. Those without a cord will need to be hard-wired, which might require professional help.
The next function to check for is if you want to have an auto-reverse mode. This can be useful if you ever run into a jam. Getting the garbage disposal blades to run in the opposite direction can help clear away debris and prevent other repair issues. Other than that, you’ll want to consider your horsepower ratings. Truth be told, you may not need the strongest motor on the market. As long as you stick to soft foods and waste, you might be set with a middle-of-the-road horsepower option—which can end up saving you some money.
Let Fite Plumbing Help with Your Repairs!
Make sure your new garbage disposal has the right kind of connection to your sink to prevent any leaks or issues later on. Most disposals have a specific type of metal flange for these connections, so it’s a good idea to find a replacement that works with the same parts. If you get confused along the way, though, you can always call on our team at Fite Plumbing.
We’re always happy to help clients with their garbage disposal repair and other plumbing needs—from the kitchen sink to the bathroom and beyond! Our expertise can help you get the work done right the first time, and in good time. Whenever you need service, give Fite Plumbing a call at (317) 271-5400.
