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How to Repair a Garbage Disposal Like a Pro  Hey there, friends! If your garbage disposal has suddenly gone silent, is making a strange humming noise, or just isn’t grinding like it used to, don’t panic. As a handyman, I’ve seen it all — from simple jams to stubborn clogs — and most of the time, you can fix it yourself without calling in the cavalry. Here’s my step-by-step guide to getting your disposal back in action. 1. Safety First — Always Unplug Before you do anything, cut the power. Either unplug the unit from under the sink or switch it off at the breaker. Never stick your hand inside a disposal that’s connected to power — even if it’s off. 2. Check for a Simple Reset Most disposals have a reset button (usually red) on the bottom. If the motor overheats or jams, this button pops out. Press it in firmly, then try running the disposal again. Sometimes, that’s all it takes. 3. Free a Jam with an Allen Wrench If you hear a humming sound but the blades aren’t spinning, the flywheel might be jammed. Look under the disposal for a small hex-shaped hole. Insert the Allen wrench (often included with the unit) and turn it back and forth to loosen the jam. Once it moves freely, restore power and test it. 4. Clear Out Clogs If water is backing up, the clog might be in the drain line. Disconnect the drain trap under the sink. Remove any food debris or buildup. Reassemble and run water to check for smooth drainage. 5. Keep It Fresh Even after repairs, odors can linger. Grind up ice cubes and citrus peels to clean the blades and freshen the smell. Avoid harsh chemicals — they can damage the unit. Pro Tip: Never put fibrous foods (like celery), grease, bones, or coffee grounds down the disposal. These are the top culprits for jams and clogs. 💡 With a little patience and the right tools, you can save yourself a service call and keep your kitchen running smoothly. If you’ve tried these steps and your disposal still won’t cooperate, it might be time to replace the unit or call in a professional. 6. Better Call Baldy And remember you can always call Baldy to help repair or replace your disposal. www.BettercallBaldy.com