Why Isn’t My Garbage Disposal Draining?
Just like any other drain, one with a garbage disposal attached can clog and cause issues. These issues can be frustrating, especially since we expect garbage disposals to help our drains run smoothly.
Occasionally, garbage disposals stop working, clogging up your drain.. Often, the drain pipe beneath the disposal, where the waste flows out, is what gets clogged. You can find more info about clearing these clogs throughout our site.
Below are some tips to prevent a clogged garbage disposal…
Fixing the Problem
If you discover a clog in your garbage disposal, you can try using a plunger to dislodge minor blockages. If that doesn’t work, try removing the pipe below the garbage disposal and clear out the clog that way. If that sounds a bit out of your wheelhouse, call in a licensed professional. Tip: Plumbing & A/C Medic is Home of the $64 Drain Unclog!
Warning: Avoid using commercial chemical drain cleaners found in stores, as these can corrode or damage your pipes.
Preventative Maintenance
The best way to keep your garbage disposal running smoothly is to prevent clogs from occurring. Keep as many food scraps as possible out of the drain, as this is a surefire way to cause a clog. A garbage disposal is not actually a ‘dispose-all’.
Never put these items into the garbage disposal:
- Grease/oil
- Fruit pits
- Eggshells
- Coffee grounds
- Meat bones
- Pasta or rice
- Potato skins
Soft, non-fibrous foods are generally safe for the disposal, but caution should be taken at all times. Try to place as much food as possible into the compost or trash.
Helpful Habits
Always run the water when using your disposal (preferably hot).his will help dilute the solids and drain them easier, preventing clogs. You should also run the water a few seconds after turning off the disposal to help prevent buildup.
Keep your disposal clean, or food will build up and get stuck. You can occasionally dump some ice down there to help safely scrub the walls and grinder. One piece of food you CAN put into the disposal is lemon or orange peel to keep it fresh and smelling good!
Your 5-Star Drain Team
Plumbing & A/C Medic is the best choice for any plumbing issues you may face. Contact our reliable and dedicated drain team today at 602-878-6478. We are trade professionals, caring for our community – one home at a time.