A damaged or malfunctioning kitchen garbage disposal is more an annoyance than a major problem. Still a plumbing tip, here or there, can help you rectify some of the more minor problems. Garbage disposals stop working properly for a variety of reasons. Here are the top three with a plumbing tip or two to help you fix the problem.

The Drain Becomes Clogged

Many people, especially children think that the in-sink garbage disposal can handle anything small enough to fit in the drain. Plumbing tip #1: Only place a small amount of food in the disposal at any time and always have the water running when you do so. This helps the unit operate at full capacity.

2 Options for Unclogging Garbage Disposal

Unclogging the unit is a simple but messy procedure that involves removing the drain pipes connected to the unit, flushing them with water and replacing them. Be sure to a bucket or pan underneath to catch and water or debris when you first loosen the connection.

The motor stops working

This problem is potentially a catastrophic failure that will mean the replacement of the entire unit. Plumbing tip #2: Be sure that the power to the unit has been disengaged at the fuse box before attempting any repairs on the switch or any other electrical components of the garbage disposal.

To troubleshoot this problem, check the entire electrical system including the switch and the connections underneath the sink. If this doesn’t solve the problem, it is most likely time for a new unit.

A leak develops

Lastly, the garbage disposal is tied into the home drainage system. As such, a leak can develop just like anywhere else in the system. Plumbing tip #3: Unless you have some experience with garbage disposals and the right materials and tools, it is often more cost-efficient to hire a professional plumber to fix any leaks. While there, the tech can also identify any potential future problems and save you sometime and money.

A modern garbage disposal should last for many years depending use and maintenance. When fixing or replacing one, be sure to get the right size and horsepower for your particular situation. A final tip: Be sure to get advice from a professional plumber before making any decision. It will save you much energy and money in the long run.