Plumbing Emergency? 1. Turn off the water. 2. Avoid using affected fixtures. 3. Call us immediately 03 366 6195
TL;DR: If your waste disposal is not working in Christchurch, check whether it has power, avoid using it, and look for simple issues like blockages or overload. If it does not restart or you are unsure, it is best to have it checked.
A waste disposal can stop working in a few different ways.
You might notice:
Each of these can point to a different issue.
If the unit is not working properly, avoid continuing to use it.
Running it while blocked or jammed can make the problem worse.
Make sure the unit is receiving power.
If there is no power, the issue may be electrical rather than plumbing-related.
If the unit is humming but not working, it may be jammed.
This can happen if solid objects or unsuitable waste have entered the unit.
Do not put your hand inside the disposal.
If water is not draining, the problem may be in the pipework rather than the disposal itself.
A blockage in the trap or drain line can stop the system from working properly.
Avoid forcing the unit to run or attempting to dismantle it without the proper knowledge.
This can cause further damage or create a safety risk.
Ask MJ
If it’s not responding, stop and check before trying again.
A quick check can prevent a bigger issue.
MJ Robertson is a maintenance company specialising in plumbing across Christchurch.
When a waste disposal is not working, the focus is on identifying whether the issue is electrical, mechanical, or related to the drainage system.
This may involve:
The aim is to restore normal operation safely.
It is worth arranging assistance if:
Prompt attention helps avoid further damage.
A waste disposal that is not working in Christchurch can often be traced to a simple issue, but it is important to handle it carefully.
Checking the basics first can help determine the next step.