Garbage Disposal Allen Wrench Override: A Handy DIY Solution

Introduction

This article is dedicated to the wisdom and handyman skills that have been shared with me over the years from my Uncle Todd.  This simple tip of resetting your garabge disposal can save you hundreds of dollars by not having to call a professional plumber, so if your garbage disposal is not working, or you have a jammed garbage disposal, please follow the guide below before calling a plumber.

3 Most Important Tips For Repairing and Maintaining a Garbage Disposal

1. Garbage disposals are designed with a shutoff sensor that will disable the motor, if something is stuck, or if you have a jammed garbage disposal.  Using a garbage disposal allen wrench will manually override the rotor and let you wiggle back and forth, until the item has been dislodged in the garbage disposal.
2. Garbage disposals have a reset button at the bottom, so press the reset button before assuming there is an issue with the electicity or resetting the electric panel.
3. The best advice when it comes to saving money and time that any property manager can offer is leave an allen wrench (proper size for your garbage disposal), so you can instruct your tenants how to resolve the issue without calling you.  This will be much easier than lecturing your tenants every time about what items should be going down the garbage disposal and which items should go into the trash.

Encountering a jammed garbage disposal can be frustrating, but fear not! With he handy Allen wrench override technique, you can quickly address the issue without the need for professional assistance. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps of using the Allen wrench override method to unjam your disposal unit safely and efficiently. Get ready to become your own garbage disposal troubleshooter!

The Allen Wrench Override Method

The Allen wrench override is a simple yet effective method for manually turning the disposal's impeller to free it from jams. Here's how to do it:

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

Before you begin, make sure you have an Allen wrench for garbage disposal, also known as a hex wrench, that fits into the hole at the bottom of your garbage disposal. Most disposals come with a wrench included, but if not, you can purchase one at a hardware store.

Step 2: Turn Off the Power

For safety reasons, it's crucial to disconnect power to the disposal unit. Locate the circuit breaker or fuse that controls the disposal and switch it off. You can also unplug the disposal from the outlet.

Step 3: Locate the Reset Button and Hex Hole

Look for the reset button on the bottom of the disposal unit. This button is usually red and can be pressed to reset the disposal after a jam. Next to the reset button, you'll find a hexagonal hole where you'll insert the Allen wrench.

Step 4: Insert the Allen Wrench

Insert the Allen wrench into the hex hole. Apply steady pressure and turn the wrench back and forth in both directions. This manual movement should help dislodge any obstructions causing the jam.

Step 5: Rotate the Impeller

As you turn the wrench, you'll feel resistance at first. Keep turning until the impeller (the disposal's grinding mechanism) starts to move freely. Continue rotating until the impeller spins all the way around.

Step 6: Remove the Obstruction

Once the impeller is moving smoothly, remove the Allen wrench and use a flashlight to inspect the disposal chamber. If you spot any foreign objects causing the jam, carefully remove them using tongs or pliers.

Step 7: Restore Power

After ensuring the disposal is clear of obstructions, restore power to the unit. You can either plug it back in or switch on the circuit breaker or fuse.

Step 8: Test the Disposal

Run cold water and turn on the disposal. It should now operate smoothly without any unusual noises. If you hear any grinding or clunking sounds, turn off the disposal immediately and repeat the Allen wrench override process.

Safety Tips

• Always disconnect power before attempting any maintenance or repairs on your garbage disposal to prevent accidents.
• Use caution when inserting the Allen wrench and rotating the impeller. Apply steady pressure, but avoid excessive force.
• Avoid putting your hand into the disposal chamber, even when using tongs or pliers. Use proper tools to remove obstructions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use any size of Allen wrench for the override?

It's best to use the size of Allen wrench that matches the hex hole on your specific disposal unit for a proper fit.

What if the impeller doesn't move after using the Allen wrench?

If the impeller remains stuck, there might be a more severe issue. It's advisable to contact a professional plumber to assess and repair the disposal.

Can I use the Allen wrench override method frequently?

While the Allen wrench override is a handy DIY solution, it's not intended for regular use. Frequent jams may indicate an underlying problem that requires professional attention.

Is it normal for the disposal to make a humming noise after using the Allen wrench?

A slight humming noise is normal as the impeller starts moving. If the noise persists or becomes louder, turn off the disposal and check for any remaining obstructions.

Can I use the disposal immediately after using the Allen wrench?

Yes, once you've successfully unjammed the disposal, you can safely resume using it as usual.

Conclusion

The Allen wrench override method is a valuable tool in your DIY arsenal for addressing garbage disposal jams. By following these simple steps and taking necessary safety precautions, you can save both time and money by resolving minor issues on your own. Remember, while the Allen wrench override is effective for occasional jams, consistent problems may require professional assistance. With this knowledge, you're well-equipped to handle one of the common challenges of maintaining a functional and efficient kitchen.