How to Clear a Clogged Drain for a Garbage Disposal

It's common for a sink with a garbage disposal to retain water. This isn't a typical plumbing problem. The clogged drain is usually caused by garbage stuck in the disposal. There's a safety switch that trips whenever a garbage disposal motor is strained. Manufacturers have made it possible to manually turn the impellers to break up garbage clogs without opening these units. The sink will drain once operation is restored for the disposal.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Hex key wrench set

1. Push the reset button. There's a red button on the bottom of the garbage disposal labeled reset. Push that, then turn the unit on at the wall switch. The disposal may work if enough of the clog has dissolved. If not, proceed to step 2.

2. Fit a hex key wrench into the hexagonal slot in the center of the disposal's bottom plate. This is a manual rotor designed for turning the impellers. Place the short end of the appropriate size hex key wrench into the slot.

3. Churn away the clog. Use the inserted hex key to turn the impellers to break trapped debris. Push the hex key wrench in a clockwise direction. Pull the wrench in the opposite direction. Move it back and forth if the rotor will not freely turn. The clog is actually in the disposal, which means it can be chopped apart by manually moving these impellers.

4. Push the wrench in alternating directions to break up the clog until a steady clockwise rotation can be established. Turn the rotor in several clockwise revolutions to be sure nothing is in the way of the disposal rotating under power. Standing water will begin to recede as the clog in the disposal clears.

5. Remove the hex key wrench. Run cold water into the sink. Turn on the disposal with the wall switch. The garbage disposal should work and keep the running water from collecting in the sink.

Tips & Warnings

• If the disposal still isn't working after manual rotation, make sure the breaker switch is on. Make sure the plug is plugged in. Most garbage disposals work for 10 to 12 years before the motor wears out.
• Never put hands or fingers inside the drain above a garbage disposal for any reason. Do not attempt to resolve a clog by sticking utensils inside a disposal. Do not use liquid or crystal drain cleaners on a garbage disposal clog.

References

• Disposal repair at About dot com
• Disposal fix from Home Tips