InSinkErator units are among the most preferred garbage disposals by plumbers, but even the best of these household appliances can occasionally break down. The most common initial sign that one of these garbage disposal units is starting to have a problem is when there is a hum, which can mean that its blades are not moving freely. While you can resolve this by shifting the food particles around as an initial repair solution, you would then notice that the water will drain a little less slowly. If this goes on without you doing something to take care of it, this problem would progress to bigger issues, from clogs to leaks, which can cause the death of the unit.

It is very sad to see many people just giving up on their garbage disposal units when they come across certain problems with such appliances that they can actually fix by themselves in no time.

In this article, we offer a guide to fixing an InSinkErator garbage disposal easily and quickly. Follow these steps:

1. Before you start any repair, it is always good to do perform initial checks first. Make sure the unit is plugged in and then try flipping the switch to listen if the unit hums. If it does produce such a sound, turn the unit off and on via its reset button that you can find around on the bottom of the disposal. Hit the button and test it again.

2. If the unit still hums after step 1, it is time to check if the blades are moving freely. If not, you can try and spin them yourself with a broom handle or a long wooden spoon. It is best not to use your hands for this step to avoid accidents. Also, make sure the circuit breaker is turned off for added safety.

3. If the blades spin freely when you touch them, but will not function when the garbage disposal is turned on, secure a ¼-inch-sized Allen wrench, which is also called the hex tool or hex key, at the hardware store near you. Take note that that this is an L-shaped, six-sided tool that usually does not come alone, as it is part of a set.

4. With the correct Allen wrench at hand, look for the hexagonal hole at the center of the bottom of the disposal. Place the short end of tool into the hole and rotate it around several times back and forth. You would notice that there will be a bit of unfavorable smell coming from the sink and would hear water draining immediately. Remove the wrench and then try switching on the unit again.

BY this time and with luck, your InSinkErator garbage disposal should be up and running again in good condition. Hopefully, this guide has provided enough information to help you sort out the most common problems in this type of kitchen appliance. Most importantly, this would lead you away from going to the store to buy a new unit!