Garbage Disposal Troubleshooting
Most of garbage disposal problems can be easily repaired on your own but to be able to fix the problem you need to determine what is the problem. However, before starting troubleshooting always turn off the power to the disposal unit at the electrical service panel. You are also highly recommended never to put your fingers or hand in the hopper because if someone in the house accidentally turns the power back on you know what will happen.
Over 90% of all garbage disposal problems are caused by a clog or jammed flywheel. If your disposal unit is not working, humming, draining too slow or being extreme loud it most often means the flywheel is stuck because of the clog or foreign object in the disposal unit. If anyone in your home is missing an earring or a key there is a great chance you will find the missing object and repair your garbage disposal at the same time. However, if you suspect a foreign object is the cause of your problems with garbage disposal do not try to reach it with your hand but use kitchen tongs. To repair garbage disposal clog you simply insert a wrench into the flywheel hole at the bottom of the disposal unit, turn it clockwise and counterclockwise few times until it loosens up and push the reset bottom and your problem is solved.
If your garbage disposal is leaking you should check the most obvious sites of leaks: at the sink flange, at the dishwasher connection and at the discharge drain line. First try how firmly disposal unit is attached to the sink. If it is firm you probably have a problem with loose hose and you need to tighten the clamps.