How to Unclog a Garbage Disposal: A DIY Guide

Garbage disposals are a fast and convenient way to keep food scraps out of your trash can. But when this kitchen appliance gets clogged, it can lead to odors, standing water and a frustrating hassle. Fortunately, most garbage disposal clogs are easy to clear with basic tools you have at home.

Use this guide to learn how to clean out your garbage disposal with different techniques.

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• Grinding too much food at once: Garbage disposals work best when grinding small amounts of food scraps in batches. Pushing too much food into the disposal at once could cause it to jam.
• Grinding the wrong foods: While garbage disposals can handle most foods, others can cause issues. Avoid sending eggshells, coffee grounds, potato peels or banana peels down your disposal, as these items tend to cause clumps that can clog pipes.

Infrequent cleaning of your garbage disposal can also lead to clogs over time. To prevent this, clean your garbage disposal on a weekly basis using a garbage disposal cleaner that is formulated to clear away grease and other residues.

Always check and follow your appliance and product use and care instructions before beginning any task, as it should be your primary source of information.

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Step 1: Disconnect the power

Make sure the garbage disposal is turned off and unplugged. If you cannot unplug your garbage disposal, locate the circuit breaker for the device and turn it off. Before unclogging your disposal, turn the disposal on and off to ensure that it is not connected to a power source.

Step 5: Remove and clean the P-trap

To clear a P-trap clog, place a bucket underneath the pipe and disconnect the fittings using channel-lock pliers. (Water and food waste may spill into the bucket, but be prepared with rags in case the water spills.) Next, use a scrub brush, wire or straightened wire coat hanger to check the P-trap pipe for clogs. Dump these clogs into the bucket and rinse the inside of the pipe. Replace the pipe and tighten the fittings.

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In addition to cleaning the P-trap, take some time to clean the trap arm, which is the pipe that goes from the P-trap to the wall. Place the bucket underneath this pipe, loosen the connectors with the channel-lock pliers and carefully remove the trap arm. Clean out this pipe, then replace it and the P-trap. If your drain is still stopped up, reach out to a licensed plumber for assistance.

Will baking soda and vinegar unclog a garbage disposal?

If you don’t have disposal cleaner tablets on hand, baking soda and vinegar may do in a pinch. Pour a cup of baking soda into the garbage disposal, followed by the same amount of vinegar. Wait for 20 minutes, then rinse with hot water. This method may help clear away minor disposal clogs.

Maintain your garbage disposal with affresh® products While there are many different ways to unclog your garbage disposal, regular cleaning can help you avoid clogs in the first place. That’s why affresh® disposal cleaner tablets are formulated to clear away grease, food debris and residue from areas you can’t reach so you can keep your disposal and drain fresh and clear.

In addition, the affresh brand also features cleaners for both kitchen and laundry appliances to help you maintain dishwashers, washing machines and other hardworking appliances. Explore our complete collection and find the right cleaners for your home.

Get more appliance cleaning tips from the affresh® brand

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Source: https://gardencourte.com
Categories: Kitchens