Fixing Garbage Disposal Problems

Ensure the power on your unit is switched off. Some garbage disposals are attached via a plug beneath the sink. In other cases, kill the power via the main circuit breaker before beginning any repair work.

Check below the sink if your garbage disposal unit suddenly stops functioning. The unit reset button is usually located under the sink. If the problem is minor, pressing the reset button can get your garbage disposal unit up and running again.

Stick a wooden spoon or the handle end of a plunger into the disposal unit to unclog any dirt or debris that may be restricting the motion of the blades. Don't use a knife, as this may cause scratches on the blades and reduce their efficiency. Move the wooden spoon around and try to get the blades moving manually. Run the hot tap to wash away any dirt you may have dislodged.

Use an Allen wrench -- if possible, one that was supplied with the disposal unit -- to get it running if you can't budge the blades with a wooden spoon. Disposal units usually come with Allen wrenches to remedy any issues. There should be a hole at the base of the unit. Insert the wrench and turn until the flywheel starts to move freely.

Remove the drain pipe attached to your unit if it leaks when you're disposing of rubbish. Leaks can also occur around the top seal of the garbage disposal unit or from inside the disposer. In this case, fit a new disposer to get the unit working again.