How to Unclog Your Garbage Disposal

With all the time you’re probably spending around the home lately, the last thing you need is a garbage disposal that doesn’t work. Luckily, most of the time, the problem is simply a clog. By learning to unclog your garbage disposal on your own, you can save a lot of time and money on plumbing. Just try one of these three methods.

Reset

This method simply requires finding your unit’s reset button and properly resetting your garbage disposal. However, before trying to reset your unit, start by unplugging the power to the unit. This will ensure you don’t accidentally start the unit unexpectedly. Now follow these steps:

  1. Reset Button: Generally, this will be a red switch located underneath the garbage disposal. Simply press the button.
  2. Start Running Water: Turn on cold water to avoid melting any grease or fat clogs and leave the faucet running for a full minute.
  3. Run the Garbage Disposal: Plug the unit back in and turn it on. If it still won’t run, it is likely clogged. So, it’s time to try another method.

Rotate the Blades

With this method, you will manually rotate the unit’s blades and hopefully dislodge the clog. However, you will need an Allen wrench to turn the motor shaft, but these often come with the unit; otherwise, typically ΒΌ” will typically work. Again, remember to unplug the unit before continuing, then follow these steps:

  1. Insert the Allen Wrench: Typically, you can find the hexagonal slot to operate the motor shaft underneath the unit in its center.
  2. Turn the Motor: Rotate the Allen wrench counterclockwise as far as it will freely go, then reverse and do the same clockwise. Repeat until you can make a complete circle. When you are done, remove the wrench.
  3. Run Water: Make sure the water is cold and run it for a complete minute.
  4. Run the Disposal: Plug the unit back in and turn it on. If the unit isn’t turning freely, still move onto the last method.

Manually Remove Any Blockages

This method requires caution because you will be manually locating and pulling any blockages out of the disposal. As always, but particularly important in this case, unplug the disposal before beginning. Then follow these steps.

  1. Look Down the Drain: Use a flashlight and shine it down the drain. Examine the blades carefully and look for what could be holding them up. The most likely locations are around the outer perimeter.
  2. Use a Tool to Pull the Blockage Out. The best tool for the job would be long nose pliers. However, tongs or any other convenient tool that can reach far enough into the drain and pull the blockage out will do. If the blades still do not turn freely, continue to the next step.
  3. Use a Garbage Disposal Wrench. If the blades are still stuck, use a garbage disposal wrench to manually turn them. This specialty tool can be inserted from the top of the drain and used to manually turn the blades back and forth until they are turning freely.
  4. Turn the Unit On. As with other methods, plug the unit back in and turn it on to check for proper function.

Conclusion

A clogged garbage disposal is a pain. But, hopefully, with these steps, you can get your unit back to working order quickly and cheaply. With a little bit of work, you can get your disposal working again without calling a plumber.

Contact Us

For more information on clearing a clogged drain or for scheduling professional service, call J. Griffin Heating and Plumbing at 781-520-1212 or connect with us on Facebook.