## How to Fix a Kitchen Sink Crusher
A kitchen sink crusher, also known as a garbage disposal, is a convenient appliance that can help you get rid of food scraps and other waste. However, like any other appliance, garbage disposals can sometimes malfunction. If your garbage disposal is not working properly, there are a few things you can do to try to fix it yourself.
### Common Garbage Disposal Problems
There are a number of common problems that can occur with garbage disposals. Some of the most common problems include:
* **The garbage disposal is not turning on.**
* **The garbage disposal is making a humming noise but not grinding.**
* **The garbage disposal is leaking.**
* **The garbage disposal is clogged.**
### How to Fix a Garbage Disposal
If your garbage disposal is not working properly, there are a few things you can do to try to fix it yourself. Before you start troubleshooting, be sure to unplug the garbage disposal from the power outlet.
**1. Check the power.** The first thing you should do is check to make sure that the garbage disposal is plugged into a power outlet. If it is, try resetting the circuit breaker or fuse that powers the garbage disposal.
**2. Check the reset button.** Most garbage disposals have a reset button located on the bottom of the unit. If the garbage disposal has tripped, you may be able to reset it by pressing the reset button.
**3. Check for clogs.** If the garbage disposal is not turning on or is making a humming noise but not grinding, it may be clogged. To check for clogs, use a flashlight to look down the drain. If you see any clogs, try to remove them using a pair of pliers or a drain snake.
**4. Check for leaks.** If the garbage disposal is leaking, it is important to find the source of the leak and fix it as soon as possible. To find the source of the leak, look for any cracks or holes in the garbage disposal housing. If you find any leaks, you may be able to fix them using a sealant or epoxy.
**5. Call a plumber.** If you are unable to fix the garbage disposal yourself, you may need to call a plumber. A plumber will be able to diagnose and fix the problem quickly and efficiently.
### Tips for Preventing Garbage Disposal Problems
There are a few things you can do to help prevent garbage disposal problems. These tips include:
* **Do not put hard objects in the garbage disposal.** Hard objects, such as bones and fruit pits, can damage the garbage disposal blades.
* **Do not put grease or oil in the garbage disposal.** Grease and oil can clog the garbage disposal and cause it to malfunction.
* **Run cold water when using the garbage disposal.** Cold water helps to keep the garbage disposal blades clean and prevents them from overheating.
* **Use the garbage disposal regularly.** Regular use helps to keep the garbage disposal blades sharp and prevents them from becoming clogged.
### Conclusion
Garbage disposals are a convenient appliance that can help you get rid of food scraps and other waste. However, like any other appliance, garbage disposals can sometimes malfunction. If your garbage disposal is not working properly, there are a few things you can do to try to fix it yourself. If you are unable to fix the garbage disposal yourself, you may need to call a plumber.