Fixing A Clogged Garbage Disposal - InSinkErator

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Fixing a Clogged Garbage Disposal

When you have a clogged garbage disposal which won't drain water from the sink, check here for troubleshooting tips.

There are different solutions to use depending on if you have a single-bowl sink or multiple bowl sink.

Plunger or plumber's helper

If the clog is far down in your plumbing, you may need to contact a licensed plumber.

Determine the source of the problem.
- Turn the disposer on. Do you see a whirlpool in the water? If yes, you may have a clogged drain line. Please move to the next step to troubleshoot. If no, and the disposer is running, click here to troubleshoot for a possible jam. If the disposer is not running, click here to troubleshoot for the disposer not starting.
Free the clog.
- Use a plunger or plumber's helper to free the clog. If you have a double sink, place a stopper to block off the other sinkhole opening.
Fill the sink with four inches (10cm) of water.
- Fill the sink with four inches (10cm) of water. Place the plunger over the garbage disposal opening and press down slowly and gently. Then, pull the plunger upwards quickly using your strength. Repeat this pulling action several times.
Clear the garbage disposal of any debris.
- When the clog is dislodged, run the water and the garbage disposal for a minute or two.

If you still need assistance after following our troubleshooting solutions, please contact us.

Run garbage disposal along with a moderate flow of cold water. Continue to run cold water for a few seconds after grinding is complete.
Avoid using hot water when grinding food waste. It is OK to drain hot water into the garbage disposal between grinding periods.
Never pour grease or fat into your garbage disposal or drain.

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