What Should I Do If Something Is Stuck In My Garbage Disposal?

It happens to everyone at some point- you drop something down the garbage disposal, and it won’t go down. Now you’re stuck with a clogged sink and a frustrating problem. Your garbage disposal is an important part of your kitchen, so what do you do if it gets jammed? In this blog, we’ll discuss the steps you can take to remove an obstruction, how to prevent a clog, and how a professional can help solve the issue.

What Can I do?

The first rule of thumb is to never put your hand in the disposal; if something is stuck. The blades are extremely sharp and can cause serious injury. Instead, try using a plunger to remove it. Attempting to use a plunger can help loosen the obstruction.

If that doesn’t work, you can try using pliers to remove the item. If you can see the obstruction but can’t reach it, you may need to remove the disposal unit itself to get to the clog. If that doesn’t work, you may need to disconnect the power and use a Wooden spoon or another tool to remove the obstruction.

If you can’t seem to remove the obstruction on your own, it’s time to call a professional. A licensed plumber will have the tools and experience necessary to clear your garbage disposal and get your kitchen back up and running.

How Do I Prevent It?

The best way to prevent a clog is to be careful about what goes down your drain. Avoid putting hard objects like bones or fruit pits down the disposal, as they can damage the blades. Stringy vegetables like celery or onion skins can also get tangled in the blades and cause a clog.

You should also avoid overloading your garbage disposal. Most disposals are made to shut down when they become overloaded in order to avoid becoming overheated and damaged. If this occurs, you should hit the reset button, and if you’re still having issues with your disposal, you will need the help of a professional.

You should also run cold water for at least 15 seconds before and after using the disposal to ensure that all food particles are flushed away. If you have a particularly stubborn clog, you can try using a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to break it up.

How We Can Help.

If you’re faced with a stubborn garbage disposal issue, we can help. Our team of experienced plumbers can help replace or repair an old garbage disposal or help install a new one. If you notice frequent clogs, strange smells, leaks, strange noises, or more, it’s time to call our team to take a look.

For all of your garbage disposal needs and questions contact Winters Home Services at 617-221-5899! Winters Home Services is Boston’s Finest Home Service Provider. Same-day service. Next-level comfort.