How do you fix garbage disposals?

[lizerdbits]

The motor on mine will run briefly but the blades don't move. Then the motor cuts off and I have to wait to turn on the reset switch. I don't see anything in there so it's apparently not any kind of clog.

Any ideas? :shrug: The manual doesn't give any tips except for clogs (it came with the condo that was built in 1991, I have no idea if it's the original). I assume since I'm not very handy around the house I shouldn't try replacing it myself.

[malta blue]

1. sorry to say but it probably needs replacing....

check out some DIY sites or the DIY forum....

Mr MB replaced ours and he is MOST UNHANDY around the house :hide:

[Shakespeare]

2. If the blades are knocked out of alignment, it's pretty easy to fix...

My dad taught me this: Insert a broomstick (disposal OFF, obviously), and when you feel it lodge against one of the blades, push firmly in a counter-clockwise direction. Hopefully, you'll fill slight give, and it'll latch back into place. Take out the broomstick, and flip the switch to see if it's fixed.

If it's a worse problem than that, I can't help. :shrug:

[S n o w b a l l]

3. Have you tried the little tool..

that you stick in underneath? Twist it back and forth. Then reset it.
That usually works for me.

[Kingofalldems]

4. An allen (sp?) wrench

A slot below the motor where you can stick the wrench in and try to turn it. Many times it works.

[lizerdbits]

5. It seems to be helping

The blades are moving a little so it probably just needs more turning. I'm going to work at 7:00 tomorrow morning so I might have to fiddle with it more tomorrow (going to bed soon).

I just wanted to note I had the best home seller. Not only was every single key taped to a sheet of paper stating what it was for, I have all the appliance manuals and the wrench was still under the sink. I only noticed it after my own allen wrench was working pretty well (the one it comes with is longer so it's a little easier to use).

[RazzleCat]

6. allen wrench

don't know if I spelled it right but works the trick near every time. first slide your hand under the disposal, you will feel the allen wrench "hole", place wrench into hole and turn 5 to 7 time in one direction, then turn on the water and the disposal, you should be able to hear if its better or worse, if better try a few more cranks in the same direction. or if worse in the opposite one. also be aware that you will find a re-set button (usually recessed) along the bottom of your unit. i can promise you this is the way to fix it, many years in maintaining high end apartments as a manager and this fix never failed me.

[lizerdbits]

7. You are correct!

Turning one way helped slightly but didn't get continuous improvement. Turning the other way seems to have done it. Thanks! (Can also be great entertainment for felines.)

[MonkeyFunk]

8. Stick your hand down in there

and feel around for any bits blocking it. Then have a partner turn the switch on so you can see if you removed the blockage.

Oh wait... there might be a flaw with that plan.