How to Repair Appliances: Garbage Disposal

Push the red button on the bottom of the unit to reset the garbage disposal. When the disposal clogs, this switch pops up and the unit shuts off to prevent overheating. Check the garbage disposal's power cord to make sure it is plugged into a working electrical outlet. Check the circuit breaker switch that controls power to the kitchen. Reset the switch if it has been tripped and retest the disposal.

Inspect the connection between the bottom of the unit and the drain pipe if your garbage disposal drips water. Tighten the connection point if the gasket is in good condition, but the disposal still leaks. Replace the gasket if it is cracked, brittle or worn. If the disposal leaks from the top, you must replace the entire unit.

Unplug the garbage disposal or shut off the kitchen's power from the circuit breaker box if the previous steps did not correct your problem. If your sink has a splash guard, remove it so you can see the blades of the garbage disposal. Clear out any debris from the disposal so the blades can move freely. Move to the underside of the unit and insert an Allen wrench into the hole in the center. Turn the wrench to move the flywheel and remove any debris.

Remove the screws and metal collar from the bottom of the garbage disposal. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the four nuts that connect the drain pipe to the disposal unit. Pull the garbage disposal away from the cabinet and turn it upside down to empty its contents. Slide the unit back into place and replace the bolts, metal collar and screws.