A clogged garbage disposal with standing water can be a frustrating and messy problem to deal with in your kitchen. It can disrupt your daily routine and lead to unpleasant odors. However, with the right tools and a systematic approach, you can quickly and safely unclog your garbage disposal.
For this guide, we reached out to Helen Knight, a Cooking and Kitchen Interior expert at SolveKitchenIssue. She shared easy-to-follow steps on how to unclog a garbage disposal with standing water. She also discussed troubleshooting while doing this. Don’t miss any dos or don’ts. Let’s dive in!
07 Steps to Unclog a Garbage Disposal With Standing Water
Step 1: Safety First – Turn off the Power
Before you start any DIY plumbing rescue mission, make sure you’re safe. Locate the power switch, typically under the sink, and switch off the garbage disposal. You don’t want any unexpected surprises.
Step 2: Remove the Disposal Cover
Beneath your sink, there’s usually a round or oval cover held in place by screws. Get your trusty screwdriver out, remove the cover, and unveil the inner workings of your disposal.
Step 3: Investigate for Large Objects
Take a peek inside the disposal and hunt for any culprits causing the clog – it could be rogue bones, veggie peelings, or stubborn food scraps. If you spot anything sizable, use tongs or pliers to fish them out.
Step 4: Plunge In!
Time to channel your inner plumber. Grab a plunger and place it over the drain opening. Give it a vigorous up-and-down plunge to dislodge the clog.
Step 5: Baking Soda and Vinegar Magic
For some fizz-tastic action, grab a cup of baking soda and a cup of vinegar. Pour the baking soda down the drain, follow it with the vinegar, and watch the chemical reaction work its magic. Let it fizz for about 30 minutes, then rinse it all away with hot water.
Step 6: Snake the Drain
Introducing the drain snake – your secret weapon for those stubborn clogs. Insert the snake into the drain and wiggle it back and forth until the clog surrenders.
Step 7: Power On
With the clog defeated, it’s time to bring your disposal back to life. Switch on the power and give it a test run to ensure it’s working smoothly.
Is Drano Safe for Garbage Disposal?
Not all Drano products are safe for garbage disposal. Drano Professional Strength Crystals Clog Remover is not safe to use in garbage disposals. Drano products that are safe for garbage disposals can be harmful if not used properly. Always wear gloves and eye protection when using drain cleaners, and never mix them with other chemicals.
But What If the Clog Persists?
Sometimes, even your best efforts might not do the trick. If that’s the case, don’t hesitate to call in a professional plumber. They have the know-how and tools to tackle the most stubborn clogs.
Preventative Measures: Keep It Clog-Free
To avoid future clogs, Helen suggested 04 simple tips to follow:
01. No Grease, Oil, or Fat
Keep these out of your disposal. They can solidify and lead to clogs.
02. Beware of Bones and Fruit Pits
Avoid tossing large bones and fruit pits down the disposal.
03. Cold Water, Not Hot
Always run the disposal with cold water. Hot water can cause grease and fat to congeal.
04. Regular Cleaning
Make a habit of cleaning your disposal once a month. You can use a commercial garbage disposal cleaner or concoct a homemade solution using baking soda and vinegar.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are a few blunders to steer clear of when tackling a clogged garbage disposal:
- Skipping the Power Off: Always turn off the power before working on the disposal to avoid accidents.
- No Hands Inside: Never put your hands inside the disposal. Safety first!
- Gentle Plunging: Don’t go overboard with force when using a plunger or drain snake.
- Follow Directions: If you resort to a chemical drain cleaner, follow the instructions precisely.
How Often Should You Clean Your Garbage Disposal?
Give your disposal some TLC once a month, says Helen Knight. You can choose between a commercial cleaner or a DIY solution using trusty baking soda and vinegar. Your kitchen sink will thank you for it!
Now that you’ve got the lowdown on unclogging your garbage disposal, you can handle these kitchen mishaps like a pro. Happy plumbing, and may your sink forever run smoothly!
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