A clogged garbage disposal is most likely caused by worn-out drains or food scraps too big for drains. Like any clog, it’s nasty business and needs to be dealt with immediately. While your first thought might be to call a plumber, it’s best you try out some DIY solutions first. To help you out, the pros at MA Williams have prepared a guide on how you can unclog your garbage disposal on your own.
1. Check Inside the Disposal
Turn the disposal off and use a flashlight to take a deeper look inside. Chances are a large scrap of food or utensil might have lodged itself in the disposal. If you notice an object, make sure the disposal is off. Then use a gloved hand to reach inside and remove any object stuck inside.
2. Use Baking Soda and Vinegar
If you want to take the most natural and DIY approach to unclogging not just your disposal, but any drain in your home, use the tried and true baking soda and vinegar mixture. Pour ¼ cup baking soda down the disposal and follow it up with ¼ cup of vinegar. Let the mixture fizz for a few minutes before pouring hot water down the drain. Run the disposal and see if the water drains away. Repeat this process if necessary. If you find that the clog remains after this, it’s time to try another technique.
3. Use A Plunger
If you want to loosen or dislodge the clog, you can try using your handy-dandy plunger. Fill the sink with a few inches of water—this will create proper suction. Then start plunging to remove any loose pieces of food or debris stuck in your disposal.
4. Take the Manual Approach: Use an Allen Key
If you still notice that the disposal is clogged or if you hear a humming sound whenever you turn it on, you will have to take a more manual approach. Turn your disposal off and look at the bottom of your disposal under your sink—you will notice a manual operator with an opening in the center called the hex socket. Take a ¼-inch Allen wrench and insert it into the hex socket. Crank the wrench back and forth and turn the blades manually. Once you feel the wrench loosen a bit, turn your disposal back and check if there is a difference.
Do None of These Methods Work? You Might Have to Call a Plumber.
If you find that no matter what you do, you can’t seem to unclog your garbage disposal, you might have to contact a plumber. If you live in Richmond VA, in the counties of Chesterfield, Hanover and Henrico or in the Tri-City area, you can reach out to the pros at MA Williams! Our team of professionals will be able to unclog your trusted garbage disposal in no time. Call us today at 804-250-5625 or schedule a service with us on our website!
