How To Repair A Clogged Garbage Disposal

by Weeks

March 17, 2021

How To Repair A Clogged Garbage Disposal

Homeowners often don’t realize how much they rely on their garbage disposal – until it stops working. Garbage disposals are commonly used in every kitchen to dispose of food waste, grinding small bits of food into even smaller bits so it won’t clog your pipes. But clogs in garbage disposals are inevitable and can happen to anyone. If you’re looking for ways to repair a clogged garbage disposal, read our step-by-step guide:

A Step-By-Step Guide To Unclogging Your Garbage Disposal

Turn the Garbage Disposal Off

Before getting started, make sure the garbage disposal is turned off. Don’t place your hand in the garbage disposal at any time.

Insert the Correct Size Wrench

Under the sink, you’ll find a hole at the bottom of your garbage disposal. Insert the wrench into the hole.

Work with the Wrench

Move the wrench back and forth in both directions. This will hopefully dislodge whatever it is that is clogging the pipes. Keep doing this until the wrench turns in complete circles – easily and  more freely.

Remove the Wrench and Turn On Your Garbage Disposal

Once you’ve removed the wrench from the garbage disposal, turn it on. If it’s humming but doesn’t grind, turn it off. This could burn out the motor and leave you with an even bigger issue.

Still Not Working?

If a DIY repair didn’t do the trick, call your local plumbers at Weeks Service Company. We have the proper tools and expertise to repair and unclog any garbage disposal.

How To Prevent Your Garbage Disposal From Future Clogs:

Once you’ve dealt with a clogged garbage disposal, you never want to deal with it again. There are preventative measures you can take to ensure you don’t experience any clogs or repairs in the future.

  • Avoid adding food items that aren’t meant for garbage disposals
  • Add food waste in small batches instead of all at once
  • Run cold water any time your garbage disposal is turned on
  • Keep your disposal running for a bit to allow the food to go down; don’t turn it off right away
  • Clean the disposal routinely and frequently

What Causes These Clogs In The First Place?

To prevent future clogs from happening, it’s important to know what causes them in the first place.

The term garbage disposal is misleading. While yes, it is used to dispose of food waste, it’s not a replacement for your trash can. There are several items you should never consider putting down the disposal.

  • Fibrous Foods (such as celery and onions)
  • Oils and Grease
  • Eggshells
  • Rice and Pasta
  • Potatoes and Potato Peels
  • Coffee Grinds
  • Bones
  • Non-Food Items

Got Garbage Disposal Problems? Call Weeks Service Company!

Improper and hard-to-grind foods are the number one cause of clogged or jammed garbage disposals. If you’re experiencing issues with your garbage disposal, Weeks Service Company is here to help. We can repair almost any brand and size of garbage disposal. If you have any questions regarding your garbage disposal and want to schedule an appointment, contact us today!