Are you planning on buying a mixer grinder but do not know what to expect? Most grinders, just like any other kitchen item, break down with time and can be problematic to operate. However, the good news is that the most common mixer grinder problems can be resolved if detected in good time.
A grinder should serve you well for up to ten years before you start to experience problems. Like any machine, these tools require regular check-ups to identify any existing problems. However, many people overlook this aspect and seek expert help when things go wrong.
The most important thing you need to do is take care of your grinder to reduce the chances of spoilage. In this discussion, we will throw light on the potential mixer grinder problems and possible solutions. Let’s jump straight in.
Mixer Grinder Problems and Possible Solutions
1. Leakage
Most people with mixer grinders attest that leakages are a common occurrence on this appliance. Unfortunately, users tend to ignore this issue. Sadly, it can damage the components in many ways. Mixer grinder leakage can occur due to various factors.
- The most common cause of jar leakage is old age when your mixer grinder outlives its lifespan. When this happens, you may have to budget for a new machine to replace the old one.
- You may also experience some minor leakage due to loose or weak blades.
- A crack in the jar results in leakage.
- It can also happen when the rubber gasket wears out.
How to fix this
You can quickly fix a leakage in your grinder if you have a set of handy tools such as the screwdriver. Here is how to fix a leakage while considering the different scenarios.
- If loose blades cause leakage, you can tighten them with your tools, but you can call an expert to fix it if the fault is more complex.
- First, disconnect the appliance from the electric connection and be careful when handling the blades since they may cause bruises to your hands or injury. After tightening, put a cup of water into the jar and test if the jar is leaking. If it is still leaking, contact a technician to inspect the problem.
- For cracks in the jar, the best solution is to replace it with a new one. It may be costly, but you can always find one that suits your budget.
- For the case of the rubber gasket, you can take the mixer grinder for repair if the warranty is still valid. However, if the warranty has expired, then you need to buy a new rubber gasket. Your technician will advise on the best option to suit your budget and needs.
2. Unsharpened blades
Even the best mixer grinder blades will lose their sharpness over some time. Once the sharpness vanishes, the quality of mixing and grinding deteriorates drastically.
However, you can quickly identify this problem if the ingredients maintain coarseness even after grinding for a long period. As a result, you may be tempted to grind continuously, leading to high energy use and more bills to pay. It can also lead to the eventual breakdown of the appliance.
How to fix this
Fortunately, this is solvable since you only need to sharpen the blades and restore the appliance to its normal working condition. As a matter of caution, you need to be careful since sharpening blades can lead to injuries if not handled properly.
- Before you begin, unplug the appliance from the electric connection. Then, put some little amount of rock salt on the grinder and switch on the appliance.
- Allow it to run for some minutes and then switch off. Clean with water and test whether the blades are now sharp. You can also use uncooked rice and try grinding for one minute. Then remove the rice, wipe off the blades using a damp and soft cloth and then test the sharpness. If the sharpness is not restored, you can buy a new set of blades.
- It’s an easy task, and you can do it yourself. Furthermore, a manual accompanies such a purchase which you can read and follow the instructions.
- If you’re not confident enough, you can engage the services of a professional for a quality job.
3. Tripping
As you may already know, mixer grinders are electric appliances and therefore may experience power overload. Luckily, most units in the Indian market have overload protection features to safeguard the unit from damage due to frequent power blackouts.
If your mixer grinder keeps tripping, do not freak out. It’s solvable; however, ensure you fix it asap. It may happen due to loose wiring or an overload. In the long run, it can damage your appliance if you do not put an end to it.
Tripping consumes your time as you have to turn on the power button several times before you are done with the grinding. The impact of this is visibly noticeable since it leads to unfinished or unrefined ground content.
Typically, a mixer grinder uses high power voltage, and like most electrical appliances, it has a circuit breaker. To avoid overheating, it automatically goes off. Many factors can cause tipping or power overload.
- Overusing your grinder for a long time can cause the problem of tipping. It’s worth noting that the quality of your mixer grinder matters for it to serve you for long without experiencing wiring problems.
- An overload can occur due to faulty wiring. It can also be due to the accumulation of dust inside the unit or grinding tough objects.
- Poor air circulation can lead to overheating and cause the appliance to trip.
How to fix this
- To fix this problem, ensure the wiring is properly done with no loose connections. You need to disconnect the appliance from the electric connection for your safety. Also, you must have a tester and screwdriver to disassemble the unit.
- The next step is to open the grinder to check its wiring. If you are not sure about how it is done, you can ask a technician to open it for you.
- Please avoid using the grinder for a long time as it will lead to overheating. When you notice overheating, switch off the grinder to allow it to cool. Keep it unattended for at least 30 minutes before using it again. When grinding, put small-sized materials and add some little water. However, don’t add a lot of water as this can spoil the recipe.
- Grinding hot food is another contributor to tripping. Don’t be in a rush to put your hot food in the grinder. It is better to wait for it to cool before grinding. In addition, spending long hours grinding non-stop worsens the efficiency of the appliance.
- If you’re not a qualified electrician or may not have the tools, it’s essential to call a professional to look at the unit and fix it immediately. Regular servicing can ensure your grinder stays clean all the time.
- Also, the technician can detect a problem with the motor and consider a replacement. The technician may also recommend you change the circuit breaker switch if everything else fails to work.
- Ensure there is enough space in the countertop, so there’s no interference with the airflow around the mixer grinder.
- Also, there should be free space between the countertop and the appliance base to prevent overheating.
4. Buttons can’t move
Every user wishes for their mixer grinder to work without any interruptions. However, this is not always the case. You may constantly have to cope with buttons that can’t move.
It’s a common occurrence and occurs due to a spillage of foods or soups. When the liquids get into the area where buttons are located, they can get stuck and obstruct the free movement of the appliance.
How to fix the problem
This problem is easy to fix as you only need to do a thorough cleanup of your appliance.
- First, unplug the mixer grinder from the electric connection. Next, check if your model has a detachable upper cover. If yes, remove the face, and this will expose the buttons.
- Put some warm water in a bowl and a cleaning detergent. Use a toothbrush and clean it by applying gentle strokes in a back and forth motion.
- After that, please leave it to dry overnight. Return the top cover and plug it into the electric connection.
- Finally, check if the buttons are now working. If not, contact a technician to have a look.
5. Blades moving slowly
The blades are essential components of the mixer grinder, and if they’re not functioning, then it means your mixer grinder will be inefficient. Many things can make the blades move slowly, and which can delay the grinding process. Sometimes it can be caused by stuck food remains that can block the entire setup.
How to fix the problem
- To solve this problem, start by disconnecting the appliance from the electric connection. Next, remove the top cover and the blade assembly.
- Put some water and detergent in a bowl and soak the components. You may use a soft scrubber to wipe off the food remains and after you’re done, wipe with a microfiber cloth.
- You can leave them overnight and assemble them in the morning. Please turn on your appliance and test whether the blades are now moving faster. If not, contact a technician for assistance.
Another scenario is whereby blades fail to rotate because there’s something underneath that’s blocking, and you can fix this by cleaning or removing the debris. Take care not to harm your fingers as the blades may be very sharp. If you are unsure how to go about this, fix it with professional help only.
6. A broken coupler
Your mixer grinder has a coupler that connects the bottom of your appliance with the jar. Like any other component, the coupler can also wear out after many years of use. Also, they can break down if not handled with care and when you grind very coarse or frozen foods at incredibly high speeds.
How to fix this
- Unfortunately, a coupler is not repairable. Therefore, once broken, the only solution is to buy a new one. Feel free to check with an expert about which one to indulge in. The coupler may vary depending upon the mixer grinder model.
- It’s worth noting that the blades of a mixer grinder are very sharp. So, it’s vital to engage with a professional to help with the replacement.
7. Jamming
Has your mixer grinder stopped working suddenly? This could be the culprit.
Jamming happens when the jar is stuck and can’t move. Applying too much force to remove the jar can lead to damage, and you may incur a lot of money replacing it.
There are many causes of a stuck jar, and the most common is damaged or rusty bearings. This problem occurs over a long period due to a leakage in the jar that can lead to corrosion.
How to fix this
Jamming is easy to fix, but you may need to contact a professional if things get out of hand.
- First, it’s essential to observe all the safety rules by switching off the appliance and unplugging from the electric connection.
- Start by turning the jar in an upside-down position. Then, apply some oil to the appliance’s motor coupler and leave it for a few minutes.
- Using a pair of pliers, try twisting the coupler and see if it moves. Then leave it for a few minutes. Plug back the appliance into the electric connection and run it for at least a minute when empty.
- It will be a good idea to put in some warm water and run for a few minutes.
- Finish by wiping the jar with a soft and clean cloth. If the problem persists, get in touch with an expert.
Conclusion
A faulty mixer grinder can cause a major inconvenience in day to day life. Fortunately, some common mixer grinder problems are easily solvable. However, some need an expert hand. Typically, some grinder components may require replacement to get the machine back into a working condition.
As a preventive measure, it’s essential to grind smaller amounts that will not consume a lot of time. Also, refrain from grinding hot food as this can accelerate the breakage. Hopefully, this discussion has been helpful, and now you can take care of your appliance and manage a few issues.
One thing is definite if your mixer grinder is giving you too much trouble, choose replacement over repair. Beyond a certain point, it will be senseless to repair the appliance aimlessly.
Are you looking for any options? Glance through my blog on the 9 Best Mixer Grinders in India 2024 – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide.
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