Garbage disposal units are quite handy. However, like any other appliance in the home, they experience their fair share of problems. One of the most common issues experienced with garbage disposal units is jamming. This can occur when the unit becomes clogged and can no longer run. 

Repairing a garbage disposal unit is a plumbing job. However, the problem may be something that you can repair on your own and save a lot of money doing so. The following is a guide on how you can fix a jammed garbage disposal unit. 

1. Turn the unit off 

Ensure the unit is turned off. Never work on a unit that is turned on. Disconnect the unit from the mains to ensure safety. Never place your hand in the garbage disposal even when the unit is turned off. This can result in serious injuries. 

2. Use offset wrench to turn the flywheel 

Use the offset wrench that came with the disposal unit to turn the flywheel. If you don’t have this wrench, you can purchase one at a hardware store. Insert the wrench in the turning hole that is located at the bottom of the unit. Turn the wrench clockwise and anticlockwise to get the flywheel turning. You may feel some resistance. It is ok to use some force to turn the flywheel. The wrench is designed to bend before any damage is done to the garbage disposal unit. 

Work the wrench back and forth until it begins to turn freely in complete circles in either direction. This indicates that the flywheel is no longer jammed. 

3. Check the overload protector 

Jamming of the garbage disposal unit can result in the tripping of the overload protector. Check the overload protector before you reconnect the unit. This is a small red button located at the bottom of the garbage disposal unit. If the overload protector has tripped, it will be in an outward position. Depress the button to reset the garbage disposal. 

4. Inspect the grinding chamber 

Use a flash light to look down the drain and into the garbage disposal unit. Inspect the grinding chamber to see if there is anything lodged in the teeth of the shredding disk. If there is any debris that could cause the garbage disposal unit to jam, remove it using a pair of tongs or pliers. Never put your hand in the garbage disposal. 

5. Turn on the water and then turn on the garbage disposal 

Turn on the water to clear debris and rinse out the unit. Then turn on the garbage disposal to check that it is working properly. You may have to repeat the whole process several times to get the unit up and running. 

Proper care and maintenance is important to ensure your garbage disposal unit works at optimum and does not breakdown. Avoid putting items that can clog the garbage disposal unit such as eggshells, coffee grounds, grease and potato peelings into the unit. These can clog and damage your unit.