Diy disposal declogging: learn the secret techniques!
What To Know
- Once the splash guard is removed, you should be able to see the inside of the garbage disposal.
- Baking soda and vinegar is a natural cleaning solution that can help to unclog a garbage disposal.
- They can be caused by putting too much food in the disposal at once, or by putting food in that is too tough or fibrous.
A clogged garbage disposal can be a frustrating and messy problem. But before you call a plumber, there are a few things you can do to try to unclog it yourself. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to check your garbage disposal for a clog:
1. Safety First
Before you start working on your garbage disposal, make sure to unplug it from the power outlet. This will prevent you from getting shocked or injured.
2. Remove the Splash Guard
The splash guard is the rubber or plastic cover that sits on top of the garbage disposal. It helps to keep food and water from splashing out when the disposal is running. To remove the splash guard, simply lift it up and off.
3. Check for Obvious Clogs
Once the splash guard is removed, you should be able to see the inside of the garbage disposal. Look for any large pieces of food or debris that may be clogging the blades. If you see anything, use a pair of tongs or pliers to remove it.
4. Check the Impeller
The impeller is the part of the garbage disposal that spins and chops up food. It is located at the bottom of the disposal. To check the impeller, use a flashlight to look inside the disposal. If the impeller is jammed or not spinning freely, it may be clogged.
5. Use a Plunger
If you can’t see any obvious clogs, you can try using a plunger to unclog the disposal. Fill the sink with water and then place the plunger over the drain opening. Pump the plunger up and down vigorously for several minutes. This will help to create suction and dislodge any clogs.
6. Use a Baking Soda and Vinegar Solution
Baking soda and vinegar is a natural cleaning solution that can help to unclog a garbage disposal. To use this solution, pour 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by 1/2 cup of vinegar. Let the solution sit for 15 minutes, then flush it down with hot water.
7. Call a Plumber
If you’ve tried all of the above methods and your garbage disposal is still clogged, it’s time to call a plumber. A plumber will be able to use specialized tools to unclog the disposal and get it working again.
Troubleshooting Common Disposal Clogs
- Food clogs: Food clogs are the most common type of garbage disposal clog. They can be caused by putting too much food in the disposal at once, or by putting food in that is too tough or fibrous.
- Grease clogs: Grease clogs can occur when you pour grease or oil down the drain. Grease can solidify and clog the blades of the disposal.
- Object clogs: Object clogs can occur when you put something down the drain that doesn’t belong there, such as a spoon or a fork. These objects can jam the disposal and prevent it from working.
Tips for Preventing Garbage Disposal Clogs
- Don’t put too much food in the disposal at once. This can overload the disposal and cause it to clog.
- Don’t put tough or fibrous foods in the disposal. These foods can be difficult for the disposal to chop up and can cause clogs.
- Don’t pour grease or oil down the drain. Grease can solidify and clog the blades of the disposal.
- Run cold water when using the disposal. This will help to flush away food particles and prevent clogs.
- Use a garbage disposal cleaner regularly. This will help to keep the disposal clean and free of clogs.
Frequently Discussed Topics
Q: What are the signs of a clogged garbage disposal?
A: The signs of a clogged garbage disposal include:
- Water backing up in the sink
- Slow draining
- Gurgling sounds
- A burning smell
Q: How can I prevent my garbage disposal from clogging?
A: You can prevent your garbage disposal from clogging by:
- Not putting too much food in the disposal at once
- Not putting tough or fibrous foods in the disposal
- Not pouring grease or oil down the drain
- Running cold water when using the disposal
- Using a garbage disposal cleaner regularly
Q: What should I do if my garbage disposal is clogged?
A: If your garbage disposal is clogged, you can try to unclog it yourself by:
- Removing the splash guard
- Checking for obvious clogs
- Checking the impeller
- Using a plunger
- Using a baking soda and vinegar solution
- If you’ve tried all of the above methods and your garbage disposal is still clogged, it’s time to call a plumber.
