There
are two types of switches:1)
If your disposal is a batch feed model, you have to turn on the
power by twisting a stopper in the neck of the disposer. This stopper-switch
could be faulty. Have it tested by a pro. 2) If your disposal is
a continuous feed model, the power is controlled by a wall switch.
This switch could be faulty. The best way to test the switch, if
you don't have a continuity tester, is to turn off the power
at the main service panel, remove the wires from the old switch
and install a new switch that you know works properly.
If
this treatment doesn't work, and the fuses are not blown or tripped,
the problem might be in the connections-but suspect a burned-out
motor.
GENERAL
MAINTENANCE FOR GARBAGE DISPOSERS-
By
following a couple of very simple procedures you can add life to
garbage disposer in your life, plus save yourself lots of repair
and maintenance time and costs.
1)
When you operate the disposer, use PLENTY OF WATER. Don't
skimp, because water is what cleans the working parts and keeps
them clean and in working order.
2) Load the hopper lightly, i.e., don't cram and jam garbage into
the hopper as tight as you can and expect the disposer to handle
it. In short, do several loads instead of one big load.
3) Never, under any circumstances, put metal, glass, stoneware,
or other hard objects in the disposer-including bones. Some manufacturers
claim that their product will grind bones. This may be true, but
do your disposer a favor and toss the bones in a garbage bag.
4) Never use a drain cleaner in a disposer.
5) If the hopper jams or you accidentally drop an item into the
hopper that you don't want in the hopper, do not stick you hand
down into the hopper. Instead, retrieve the item with kitchen tongs
or pliers.
IF
YOU ARE INSTALLING A NEW DISPOSER
In some localities, garbage disposers are forbidden by local plumbing
codes or laws. The problem is that the disposers discharge garbage
into the sewer system, overloading it if it happens to be marginal
and many are.
Before
you buy and install a new disposer, be sure to check out the local
codes in your specific community: township, county, area. If the
locality where you reside has an up-to-date sewer system, disposers
are probably allowed. If you have your own private sewer system-a
septic tank-it is strongly recommended that you do not use a disposer.
However, check this out before you make a buying decision with a
professional plumber in your community.
Installing
a new disposer unit is not beyond the skills of a do-it-yourselfer.
Most manufacturers include complete installation procedures with
their disposer products.
