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As a homeowner, you likely rely on your garbage disposal to make light work of cleaning up kitchen scraps. However, like any other appliance, your garbage disposal may experience problems from time to time. Fortunately, these issues can be fixed with the right tools and knowledge. NuvoH2O is here to provide you with common garbage disposal problems and solutions.

Your Garbage Disposal Is Jammed

If you hear a humming sound coming from your garbage disposal and the water and liquids are either backing up into the sink or draining slowly, your disposal is likely jammed. This is usually caused by something preventing the garbage disposal's blades from turning. Everyday items that can cause a jam include fruit pits, eggshells, stringy vegetables, fats and oils, bones, and even non-food items. Additionally, not flushing the drain with water and trying to flush too much food waste at once can clog the disposal. You need to clean your disposal blades regularly to work effectively.

Begin clearing the drainpipe by turning your unit off and on a few times while the water is running, forcing the water into the pipe and clearing most small blockages. For more significant blockages, try using a plunger, removing visible blockages with a long tool like tongs or pliers, and checking the drainpipe by unscrewing the pipe from the unit and checking the disposal’s drain trap. Contact a professional plumbing service if you feel uncomfortable doing so. Installing water softeners will prevent hard water build-up, avoiding jammed garbage disposal. NuvoH2O has a wide range of water softener systems to prevent and remove the effects of hard water in your home. Water softeners are easy and quick to install, and we offer a step-by-step guide through the process and service locations around the country for water softener installation.

Your Connections Aren’t Secure

Loose or faulty connections can be a common cause of garbage disposal problems. If you suspect your garbage disposal is leaking, the first step is to identify the source of the leak. If the leak is at a connection, such as between the dishwasher and sink or the discharge drainpipe and disposal, you can try to tighten any relevant bolts, clamps, or ties or replace the hose or pipes. If the leak is coming from the top of the sink, you'll need to replace the seal with plumber's putty around the sink flange, then reconnect the unit. If it's a small crack in the disposal's housing, Epoxy can be used to seal the break. However, if the leakage is coming from the reset button or a larger crack, consider replacing the unit with a new one.

There Are Issues In Your Electrical System

If your garbage disposal is not turning on, the problem may be in your electrical system. Check the circuit breaker and make sure it's switched on. If the problem persists, you may need to call an electrician to inspect the system.

Your Garbage Disposal Is Not Turning On

If your garbage disposal isn't turning on, don't panic! It could be a simple fix, like turning off the motor to prevent overheating. In this case, wait a few minutes and reset the garbage disposal. If this doesn't work, it could be a more significant problem, and it may be necessary to call a plumbing professional to figure out why the system isn't working.

Garbage disposals can often run into problems, but most of these issues can be easily solved. If your garbage disposal is jammed, try to unjam it manually. Check the connections and the circuit breaker if your garbage disposal is not turning on. You may need to call a professional for help if the problem persists. Consider installing a water softener system to prevent garbage disposal issues. To shop our selection of water softener systems, contact NuvoH2O today!

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