Garbage disposals are one of those household appliances we rely on heavily without giving a second thought to. These appliances save us valuable time and energy in the kitchen. They also contribute to better management of kitchen waste. It is quite convenient to be able to leave kitchen waste to go down the drain rather than have to dispose of it directly into a bin.
If you’re like many people, you probably don’t think much about your garbage disposal unit until it breaks down. However, now is not the time to give into that sinking feeling. It is time to find a solution to your problem.
There are a wide range of issues that can cause a garbage disposal unit to stop working. Below, we discuss some of the top reasons.
1. Jamming
This is one of the most common reasons for failure of garbage disposal units. The flywheel in a garbage disposal is designed to shred food that is sent down the drain to the unit. The flywheel cuts up the food debris into small pieces before it is sent further down the drain. If large or touch food particles get stuck in the flywheel’s blades, then the motor will stop running. This often occurs when items such as bones, fibrous vegetables such as celery or non-food objects are sent down to the disposal.
2. Overloading or overheating
Overloading your garbage disposal unit with too much food will result in strain on the motor. The motor will also overheat as a result of overuse or using the garbage disposal too frequently within a short span of time.
It is important to be more conscious of the volume of waste you feed your garbage disposal as well as the number of times you use it in the day. This will help you avoid overloading your garbage disposal.
3. Electrical issues
If your garbage disposal unit is not turning on when you flick the switch, there is a good chance that there is an electrical problem. Electrical problems can range from simple problems such as a blown fuse or the disposal being unplugged to serious problems such as a problem with the circuitry within the appliance.
4. Clogging
If your sink is full of water or is draining slowly even when the garbage disposal is operating, there is a good chance that there is a clog in the system. This can occur when food debris gets stuck in the drainage system or when foreign objects are sent down the drain and cause a clog.
It is important that you never use chemical drain cleaners when you have a clog. Garbage disposal parts are made from metal. Chemical drain cleaners can cause these parts to corrode. You will therefore end up with a much bigger problem.
Garbage disposals provide a basic function in many kitchens throughout the country. However, these appliances can be quite tricky and even dangerous to deal with when they fail. If you’re experiencing problems with your garbage disposal unit, here are a few reasons you should refer to a professional plumber for repair.
1. Expertise and experience
Professional plumbers are not only trained in garbage disposal repair and maintenance but are also experienced in dealing with a wide range of issues that affect these appliances. They will be able to accurately diagnose the issue and repair them. They have the knowledge and experience required to quickly identify the root cause of the problem and apply the appropriate solution.
2. Safety
Dealing with a garbage disposal that isn’t working as it should can present various risks. There are not only electrical components that can result in electrocution but also sharp blades that can cause physical injuries. It is best to engage a professional plumber that is experienced and equipped to handle the repairs safely.
3. Proper diagnosis
Successful repair of your garbage disposal will depend on your ability to have the problem diagnosed accurately. This is difficult if you’ve never had to deal with garbage disposal problems before. A professional plumber can accurately diagnose the issue with your garbage disposal. They can determine if the problem is due to a jam, a motor malfunction or other issues. They have experience in dealing with various problems.
4. Efficient repairs
Plumbers have the right tools, experience and equipment for garbage disposal repair. They can diagnose and repair the problem in a timely manner. This will minimize your inconvenience and the downtime of your experience. They will provide you with long term solutions rather than quick fixes. This will also help to save you money.
5. Maintain warranty
If your garbage disposal is still under warranty, a DIY solution might void the warranty. Professional repairs will ensure that you can preserve your existing warranty.
Has your garbage disposal failed? Get in touch with us now for repairs.
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