A Black Hawk disposal that hums, won't start or leaks usually has a jam, a tripped reset, a worn seal or a failing motor. A plumber can tell which and check the drain line behind it. Call the number on this page to be connected with a local plumber in Black Hawk.
About Black Hawk
Black Hawk is a former gold-mining settlement known as the City of Mills, now a small casino town of restored historic buildings along North Clear Creek that shares a National Historic District with Central City. It's also Colorado's least populous city. The City of Black Hawk Water Department supplies drinking water to the entire city from two of its own treatment plants, Dory Hill and Hidden Valley, disinfecting with chlorine gas and adding soda ash for corrosion control. Who handles sewer for Black Hawk homes wasn't confirmed, so check your utility bill if a backup seems to reach past your house.
Building Division services are contracted to SAFEbuilt. The City's page doesn't spell out plumbing permit rules, so ask the plumber whether a disposal swap needs one.
What to do now
- Disconnect power. Flip the switch off, then unplug the unit or shut off its breaker.
- Inspect the chamber. Shine a light inside and remove anything stuck with tongs.
- Turn the plate. Use the hex wrench in the socket under the unit and rock it until it moves freely.
- Reset. Wait a few minutes for the motor to cool, then press the reset button.
- Check for drips. Run cold water briefly and look for leaks at the top, side and bottom.
- Get help if needed. Persistent humming, a leaking housing or a tripping breaker calls for a plumber.
Symptom guide
| Symptom | Probable cause |
|---|---|
| Hum only | Jammed plate or worn bearings |
| No sound | Reset, breaker, switch or motor |
| Leak at the sink | Worn flange seal |
| Leak at the side | Loose drain or dishwasher fitting |
| Leak from the base | Internal seal failure |
| Slow drain on cold days | Grease buildup in a chilled kitchen line |
Cost factors
- Repairing the unit or replacing it
- Motor size and build of the new disposal
- Drain parts that need replacing, especially in older buildings
- Electrical work for hardwired units
- Travel time up into the mountains
Mountain winters make grease an even bigger enemy of a Black Hawk kitchen drain, since cold slows a line that's already coated. Keep grease out and run water after each use.
Garbage Disposals questions in Black Hawk
Is it safe to reach into the disposal to pull out a jammed object?
Who handles a backup that's coming from the public sewer main?
Can a cold snap cause trouble for a kitchen drain?
When does replacing the disposal make more sense than repairing it?
More plumbing services in Black Hawk
Garbage Disposals nearby
Helpful guides
Sources
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