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    lashirtz's Avatar
    lashirtz Posts: 3, Reputation: 1
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    #1

    Nov 6, 2011, 12:06 PM
    Disposal backup?
    I have a double sink, the disposal is in the sink attached to the other sink which goes to the main line and eventually to the sewer (I guess).
    Disposal backed up and other sink is running clear of water I run into it.

    I tried using the allan wrench to see if the disposal was stuck... but it turns fine both ways... I also stuck my hand inside the disposal and the things on the bottom also turn fine. When I turn it on it sounds like a humming noise vs gargly (when it is tearing up the food).

    Do you think the motor has stopped turning the disposal or perhaps there is a back up in the pipe between the sink with the disposal and the other sink?

    I am a single mom and would like to try and fix it myself... or at least not get ripped off... thanks!
    massplumber2008's Avatar
    massplumber2008 Posts: 12,832, Reputation: 1212
    Senior Plumbing Expert
    		  
    #2

    Nov 6, 2011, 02:01 PM
    Hi Lashirtz

    Try pressing the red reset button located on the underside of the disposal... should hear it click in and then try turning it on. Hopefully, once the disposal is engaged it will dislodge anything clogging up the outlet to the unit.

    Back to you...

    Mark
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    lashirtz's Avatar
    lashirtz Posts: 3, Reputation: 1
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    #3

    Nov 7, 2011, 06:05 AM
    I forgot to say, I tried the reset button... it is pushed in and won't come out when I push it... but obviously the power is working... help!
    massplumber2008's Avatar
    massplumber2008 Posts: 12,832, Reputation: 1212
    Senior Plumbing Expert
    		  
    #4

    Nov 7, 2011, 07:15 AM
    With power off try the allen wrench again... rotate the disposal plate 360 degrees a few times. Then try the power and see if the disposal works. If it does, great! If the disposal doesn't work after that then the disposal is most likely dead and will need to be replaced, OK?

    Mark
    lashirtz's Avatar
    lashirtz Posts: 3, Reputation: 1
    New Member
    		  
    #5

    Nov 7, 2011, 11:21 AM
    Hi Mark,

    Sorry if I didn't explain it fully... I did use the allan wrench several times around (both clockwise and counter clockwis>>didn't realize it was supposed to be only clockwise--whoops!) with the power turned off but cord still plugged into outlet... but the reset button is still pushed in.

    Did you mean for me to unplug the unit? Or if not... I am guessing the disposal is shot... let me know?

    Also, I have been looking into replacements in case that is what I need... I currently have a Badger 5, 5 hp, continuous feed, that lasted for about 10+ years and was wondering what to get now... the reviews on the Badger make it look like I was very lucky (most reviews are negative)...

    I really appreciate all your help/advice... looking forward to hearing back from you!

    Lise
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