First off, don’t worry—an “Error Code He” isn’t the end of the world. It usually means your Insinkerator garbage disposal has encountered an overload or jam, which triggers an internal safety mechanism to shut it down before any damage occurs. Think of it as your disposal’s way of saying, “Hey, I need a minute!” While it may seem daunting, resetting your disposal is often a simple fix that you can handle without professional help.
Understanding the Error Code He
So, what exactly causes this mysterious error code? Picture your garbage disposal as a hardworking teammate that occasionally gets bogged down. The “He” error code essentially means your disposal has overexerted itself. It’s pretty common when there’s a jam, or when too much refuse gets dumped in at once. Imagine trying to swallow a whole apple without cutting it up first—that’s what your disposal feels when it’s overwhelmed.
Another possible culprit behind this error is overheating. Just like how a car engine might overheat if it’s been running too hard, your garbage disposal can get too hot if it’s working overtime. This happens most often if the disposal has been running for too long or if it’s grinding materials it wasn’t designed to handle. A range of common kitchen mishaps, like fatty substances or fibrous vegetable peels, can also trigger this issue.
Finally, electrical issues can also cause an error code to pop up. If your disposal isn’t receiving adequate power, it might not be able to operate effectively, leading to an overload situation. This can happen if there’s a problem with your wiring or if the unit is plugged into an insufficient outlet. Now that you know what might be causing the issue, let’s explore how you can reset your Insinkerator and get back to easier kitchen clean-ups.
Steps to Reset Your Insinkerator
Ready to take on this challenge? Here’s how you can reset your Insinkerator and get it working again. Think of it like rebooting a phone or computer—it’s all about letting the system take a breather and then starting fresh. First, before doing anything else, ensure your disposal is turned off and unplugged. Safety must always come first, and you definitely don’t want any surprises while you’re working through this process.
Now, locate the red reset button, which is usually found on the bottom or the side of the disposal unit. It’s a bit like the “panic button” your disposal uses to stop functioning when things aren’t going right. Press this button firmly. This will reset the motor’s internal circuit breaker so that the disposal can start fresh. If the button doesn’t stay in, give it a minute, then try pressing it again. Sometimes it just needs a little patience.
Once you’ve pressed the reset button, plug the disposal back in and switch it on to see if it’s back to normal operation. You should hear the familiar hum of the motor if everything’s working correctly. If the error persists, you might need to clear any jams or debris. Use a hex wrench to manually rotate the grinding plate—it’s a bit like turning a stubborn jar lid until the jam is free. You might be surprised how often this simple action resolves the issue!
Preventing Future Issues
You’ve successfully reset your garbage disposal, but you might be wondering how to avoid the “Error Code He” in the future. Imagine giving your disposal a regular tune-up, much like you would with your car. Routine maintenance goes a long way in keeping everything running smoothly. You can start by being mindful about what you’re putting down the disposal. Remember, it’s not equipped to handle everything. Avoid dumping fibrous, starchy, or greasy foods like potato peels, corn husks, or bacon grease.
Regularly running cold water through the disposal before and after use can help prevent jams and keep the system from overheating. Cold water helps solidify any fats or oils, making it easier for the disposal to grind them up and flush them through the pipes. Think of it as a pre-rinse before tackling those dirty dishes. Additionally, grinding a few ice cubes every now and then can clean the inside mechanisms and keep it sharp, much like honing a knife.
If you still encounter frequent issues despite these preventative measures, it might be time to call a professional to check for any underlying problems. Sometimes, replacement or repair is necessary for older units. Remember, keeping your garbage disposal in top-notch shape requires small, consistent efforts, but the payoff is a hassle-free kitchen workflow.
By understanding what causes the error and knowing how to reset your Insinkerator, you’re well-equipped to maintain your disposal’s efficiency. This not only saves you time and frustration but also extends the life of your appliance. Happy grinding, and may your kitchen remain free from pesky disposal errors!
