Garbage disposers

Garbage disposers grind food waste so it can be flushed down the sink drain. To prevent problems, choose a garbage disposer with at least a ½ horsepower motor, and a self-reversing feature to prevent jamming. If the disposer won’t run and doesn’t hum when you turn it on, push the reset button on the bottom of the unit, and insert a wrench and turn clockwise.

Another way to free a jammed disposer is to use a wood handle, such as a broomstick, to turn it from the top. Insert the broom handle into the disposer and try to rotate the impeller assembly. If all these measures fail, install a new disposer.

How to remove a garbage disposer

When replacing a disposer, bear in mind that both removal and installation will be easier if you replace the unit with another of the same make and model.

• Loosen the screw holding the clamp. Remove the drain hose.
• Disconnect the continuous waste pipe from discharge tube.
• Insert screwdriver into the lug and turn counterclockwise.
• Loosen mounting screw and remove mounting assembly.
• Remove the sink sleeve by pushing up from the bottom.