How To Unclog Sink Disposal

A clogged sink disposal can be a major inconvenience. It can prevent you from washing dishes, and it can also lead to unpleasant odors. If your sink disposal is clogged, there are several things you can do to try to unclog it yourself.

Before you start, it is important to turn off the power to the disposal. You can do this by flipping the circuit breaker or removing the fuse. Once the power is off, you can begin troubleshooting the clog.

One of the most common causes of a clogged sink disposal is food debris. If you have accidentally dropped food into the disposal, it can get stuck and cause the blades to jam. To remove the food debris, you can use a pair of tongs or pliers to reach down into the disposal and grab it. Be careful not to touch the blades, as they can be sharp.

If there is a lot of food debris in the disposal, you may need to use a drain cleaner. Drain cleaners are available at most hardware stores. Be sure to follow the directions on the package carefully.

Another common cause of a clogged sink disposal is grease. Grease can build up on the blades of the disposal and prevent them from working properly. To remove grease, you can pour a cup of baking soda down the drain followed by a cup of vinegar. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes, then flush the drain with hot water.

If the clog is still not cleared, you may need to call a plumber. However, if you are comfortable working with plumbing, you can try to remove the clog yourself. To do this, you will need to remove the drain cover and use a pair of pliers to remove the clog. Be careful not to damage the disposal blades.

Once you have removed the clog, be sure to flush the drain with hot water to remove any remaining debris. You should also run the disposal for a few minutes to make sure that it is working properly.

If you have tried all of the above methods and the clog is still not cleared, you may need to replace the disposal. Disposals typically last for 10-15 years, so if your disposal is old, it may be time for a replacement.