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4 min read
By Jack Turner · DIY & Repairs Contributor
Is It Possible to Fix a Broken Garbage Disposal Yourself?
I successfully unjammed my garbage disposal without calling a professional. Here’s how I did it, including what went wrong initially and the steps I took to fix it.
Introduction: Taming the Garbage Disposal Beast
When my garbage disposal suddenly stopped mid-spin, my first thought was a dreaded call to the plumber. But being a DIY enthusiast, I wanted to give it a shot myself. In this article, I'll take you through my journey of unjamming my broken garbage disposal, the pitfalls I encountered, and what I'd recommend based on my experience. We'll cover everything from initial missteps to my step-by-step guide. By the end, you'll have a roadmap for tackling your own stubborn disposal without professional help, potentially saving yourself a decent chunk of change.
The Day the Disposal Stopped
It was a typical Tuesday evening when my garbage disposal gave up on me. After dinner, I was cleaning up and noticed the hum stop, replaced by a low whirring noise. I checked the unit, flipped the reset button underneath, but nothing changed. Not wanting to give up yet, I decided to investigate further.
I gathered some tools: a flashlight, a pair of pliers, and a hex wrench. The flashlight helped me see what was going on inside, and sure enough, there was a small piece of bone lodged between the blades. The hex wrench came in handy to manually rotate the flywheel from below, freeing up the jam and restoring the disposal to its former glory within 30 minutes. I also discovered a stray piece of plastic which contributed to the blockage. Removing it required some patience and the pliers, but it was a satisfying moment when everything was cleared.
Learning the Hard Way: The Mistakes I Made
Initially, I made the rookie mistake of not turning off the power at the breaker. It's vital to ensure the unit is completely off to avoid accidents. My oversight could have resulted in an injury, and it's a step I’ll never skip again. After that, I realized I was using the wrong size hex wrench, which could have damaged the flywheel socket. I ended up using a 1/4-inch hex wrench, which fit perfectly.
Another misstep was not using a plunger to try and dislodge the jam before getting under the sink. In hindsight, this could have saved me some time and trouble. Next time, I'll attempt a gentle plunge first, which might have loosened the jam without needing to dive into the mechanics. Lastly, I underestimated the amount of force needed to turn the flywheel. A firm yet controlled effort is key, and a bit of WD-40 can help if it feels particularly stubborn.
Comparison: Professional Repair vs. DIY Fix
Deciding whether to fix a garbage disposal yourself or call a professional depends on a few factors, including cost, time, and complexity. Here's a quick comparison to help make the decision. While a professional offers peace of mind, many repairs, especially mechanical jams, can be handled at home if you're willing to spend a little time.
| Aspect | DIY Fix | Professional Repair |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $0 (tools on hand) | $150 on average |
| Time Taken | 30-60 minutes | 1-2 days (appointment scheduling) |
| Complexity | Medium | Low (leave it to the experts) |
| Success Rate | High with guidance | Virtually guaranteed |
Step-by-Step Guide to Unjamming Your Disposal
Here's how you can unjam your garbage disposal, based on my successful attempt:
- Turn off the power: Ensure the disposal is unplugged or the circuit breaker is off.
- Use a flashlight: Check inside the disposal for visible blockages. Remove any debris you can reach, like food scraps or foreign objects.
- Use a hex wrench: Insert a 1/4-inch hex wrench into the flywheel socket and turn it clockwise and counterclockwise to free the jam. A full rotation can help clear the obstruction.
- Try a plunger: Apply gentle pressure with a plunger to help dislodge any debris before getting under the sink. This can often loosen jams that aren’t visible.
- Press the reset button: Once clear, press the reset button at the bottom of the unit. Wait a couple of minutes for the motor to cool down if necessary.
- Test the disposal: Plug it back in or turn on the circuit breaker and test the disposal. Run cold water through it as you turn it on to ensure any remaining debris is flushed away.
Q&A: Common Questions Answered
Q: What if the disposal still doesn't work after unjamming?
Check if the circuit breaker has tripped. If it hasn't, there could be an electrical issue or the motor could be burned out. In such cases, replacement might be necessary.
Q: Can I use chemical drain cleaners?
No, it's not recommended as they can damage the disposal's components and are generally ineffective for mechanical jams. They can also create hazardous fumes.
Q: How can I prevent future jams?
Avoid putting fibrous, starchy foods or hard items like bones and shells down the disposal. Regular cleaning with ice and vinegar helps too. Also, running the disposal regularly keeps parts moving freely.
Q: Is it safe to reach inside the disposal?
Always ensure the power is off before attempting to remove any objects by hand. Use tools like pliers for hard-to-reach items to minimize risk.
EditorialOur Take
Attempting to fix your garbage disposal yourself is definitely doable if you approach it with caution and patience. It's a satisfying win for any DIYer and saves you the cost of a professional. If you're comfortable with basic hand tools and can follow instructions, I'd encourage giving it a try. The key is to take your time, use the right tools, and prioritize safety. However, if you're unfamiliar with electrical systems or uneasy about the process, hiring a professional might be a better option to avoid potential hazards. Remember, safety first!
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Jack Turner
DIY & Repairs Contributor
Jack Turner writes Dailynib's simple-repair guides. He believes most small household fixes are far less scary than they look once someone shows you the steps. Jack focuses on safe, beginner-friendly repairs that don't need a pro. Jack uses AI tools to research, draft, and help keep these articles accurate.
More from Jack →The information on this site is of a general nature only and is not intended to address the specific circumstances of any particular individual or entity. It is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional advice.
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