Jammed Impellers
Jammed Impellers | Garbage Disposal Repair | Plumbing | Delano
When stubborn food scraps bring your sink to a stand-still, HEP’s specialists arrive with the right tools and know-how to free those jammed impellers and get water flowing again. From buzzing motors to total silence, we’ve seen every symptom a Delano disposal can throw our way—pin-sized bones, fibrous veggie peels, even the occasional silverware surprise—and we clear them all without damaging your unit or your pipes. Fast scheduling, transparent pricing, and a fully stocked service van mean most fixes are finished on the first visit, so you can get back to cooking without the clog-induced drama.
Our technicians don’t settle for a quick unjam and dash; we inspect wiring, seals, and splash guards, tighten mounting assemblies, and share simple maintenance tips that keep future blockages at bay. If your system is past its prime, we’ll recommend an energy-efficient replacement and handle complete installation. For friendly, local garbage disposal repair that’s as dependable as it is thorough, Delano homeowners know to call HEP.
FAQs
What usually causes garbage disposal impellers to jam?
The most common culprits are hard objects (bones, fruit pits), fibrous foods (celery, corn husks), grease that solidifies around the impeller plate, or foreign items like silverware that accidentally fall in. Over time, mineral deposits from Delano’s hard water can also build up and restrict the impellers’ rotation.
How can I tell if my garbage disposal’s impellers are jammed?
Typical signs include a humming noise when you flip the switch, water backing up into the sink, or the reset button repeatedly tripping. If you can see standing food waste in the chamber and the flywheel wrench hole on the bottom won’t turn freely, the impellers are likely stuck.
Is it safe to pour chemical drain cleaners into a jammed disposal?
No. Chemical drain cleaners can damage the rubber splash guard, corrode metal components, and create hazardous fumes when trapped inside the sealed chamber. They also seldom reach the impeller area where the jam is occurring. Mechanical clearing or professional service is safer and more effective.
Can I unjam the impellers myself, or should I call a plumber in Delano?
You can try a few safe DIY steps: turn off power at the breaker, insert the manufacturer-supplied Allen wrench into the bottom flywheel slot, and gently rock it back and forth. If that fails, avoid forcing it or placing hands inside the chamber—call a licensed Delano plumber. Persistent jams can overheat the motor or strip internal gears, leading to costlier repairs.
How much does jammed-impeller repair typically cost in Delano?
Minor jams that only require manual freeing usually range from $95–$150, including a diagnostic fee. If parts like the flywheel, seals, or motor need replacement, the price can rise to $200–$350. We always provide an up-front quote before any work and waive the service fee with repair approval.
What can I do to prevent my garbage disposal from jamming again?
Run cold water before, during, and 15 seconds after use; feed scraps gradually; avoid stringy, starchy, or hard items; and occasionally grind ice cubes with a dash of lemon to scour the chamber. Once a month, pour a half-cup of baking soda followed by one cup of vinegar, let it foam for 5 minutes, then rinse with hot water to reduce grease buildup.