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Troubleshooting Tips for Common Kitchen Sink Disposal Problems in Fallbrook, CA

July 13, 2023

Man installing garbage disposal in home.

Most of us have electric garbage disposals attached to our kitchen sinks.  A  garbage disposal unit, also known as a kitchen sink disposal, helps us dispose of food waste by shredding it into small pieces that can be passed through a kitchen drain. This allows us to dispose of unwanted food materials in a more convenient and efficient manner.

Garbage disposals tend to get a lot of use. All this use can cause wear and tear to the unit. In this post, we’re going to examine some common kitchen sink disposal problems homeowners in Oceanside, CA experience. We’re also going to discuss what to do if your garbage disposal needs to be replaced.

Clogs

Clogging is one of the most common garbage disposal problems homeowners experience. Clogs can occur when we overload the disposal or try to pass the wrong types of materials (bones, watermelon rinds, paper, plastic, etc.). To remedy this problem, turn off the disposal and remove the material that is causing the clog. Place the material in the wastebasket rather than trying to wash it down the drain again.

A buildup of food particles can also result in clogs. Over time, food particles and other debris can collect in the garbage disposal unit, resulting in clogs.  Turn off the disposal, carefully remove the built-up debris, and then rinse the assembly with warm water and soap to rinse off any remaining debris.

Jams

Food buildup and trying to pass too much food waste through a kitchen sink disposal can cause another disposal problem: jamming. Turn off the disposal and try and remove as much material as possible. You may have to manually rotate the blades to fully clear the debris. If the blades don’t turn, you may have to press the disposal’s reset button. (The reset button is located on the bottom or side of the unit.)

Bad Odors

Odors are another problem that can occur as a result of waste material doesn’t get washed down the drain. To get rid of the odors, first clean the unit. Once it’s been cleaned, turn on the water and turn on the disposal to clear the material. Add lemon, vinegar, or baking soda to get rid of any remaining odors.

When Do You Need to Replace a Kitchen Sink Garbage Disposal?

Many kitchen sink problems can be resolved through regular cleaning and basic maintenance, there will come a time when the disposal unit will have to be replaced. Frequent clogs or jams, leaks, excessive noise or vibrations during operation, or a unit that is over ten years old are all signs that you may need a new garbage disposal unit.  If you’ve been experiencing any of these problems. give 1st Choice Plumbing, Flood & Restoration a call.

1st Choice Plumbing, Flood & Restoration has been delivering outstanding plumbing services to home and business owners in Fallbrook, CA, and surrounding communities since 2012. Our team of licensed Fallbrook, CA plumbing professionals possess the training and tools to deal with just about any plumbing problem you may be experiencing. Garbage disposal repair, maintenance, and replacement are a specialty.

1st Choice Plumbing, Flood & Restoration is available 24/7. You can reach us online or call us at 866-437-0205 to schedule a visit from one of our Fallbrook, CA plumbers.