How to Unclog and Clean your Garbage Disposal

A clogged garbage disposal can throw off your entire kitchen routine. From lingering odors to slow drainage and strange grinding noises, this common issue can make everyday tasks frustrating. Whether you’re cooking dinner or cleaning up after a long day, a blocked disposal adds unwanted stress and the potential for water damage to your home.

At Greenwell Plumbing, we help homeowners across New Albany, Louisville, Columbus, and the Kentuckiana region resolve kitchen plumbing problems quickly and safely. Here’s what you can do when your garbage disposal isn’t working and how to tell when it’s time to call in a pro.

Garbage Disposal Not Working

A garbage disposal that isn’t functioning properly could be dealing with more than just a clog. Understanding the common causes can help you figure out whether it’s a DIY job or something that requires professional help.

Garbage Disposal Hums but Doesn’t Spin

This is usually a jammed flywheel. You’ll hear the motor humming, but the blades won’t rotate. Leaving it on in this state can damage the motor.

Garbage Disposal Makes No Sound

If it’s completely silent, the unit may have tripped its reset switch or lost power at the circuit. This is often an electrical issue, not just a clog.

Garbage Disposal Drains Slowly

A slow-draining disposal may still grind food but back up water in the sink. This is often due to clogs in the discharge pipe or drain line.

Garbage Disposal Leaks

Leaks under the sink could be from worn gaskets, loose connections, or cracked housing. A disposal that leaks should be addressed quickly to prevent cabinet and floor damage.

How to Unclog Garbage Disposal

If your garbage disposal is clogged but the motor still works, you may be able to resolve it safely using one of these methods.

1. Reset the Disposal

  • Turn off power. Always start by unplugging the unit or switching off the breaker.
  • Press the reset button. Located at the bottom of the unit, this often fixes electrical overloads.
  • Turn power back on. Test the unit to see if it starts working again.

2. Use a Hex Key to Manually Free the Jam

  • Insert the key. Most disposals come with an Allen wrench that fits in the bottom center hole.
  • Turn back and forth. This can help dislodge stuck items.
  • Try running water and the disposal. Restore power and test.

3. Try Tongs or Pliers

  • Never use your hands. Even if the unit is off, blades can be sharp.
  • Use tongs to remove visible blockages. Food debris, silverware, or bones may be stuck.
  • Flush with cold water. Once cleared, run cold water to help rinse any remaining particles.

4. Use Baking Soda and Vinegar

  • Pour in ½ cup baking soda.
  • Add 1 cup vinegar. Let it fizz for 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Flush with hot water. This helps break down mild clogs and cleans residue.

If none of these methods work, or if the disposal is still humming or tripping the reset switch, it’s time to schedule a service call. A jammed motor or damaged internal component needs professional repair or replacement.

How to Clean Garbage Disposal

Regular cleaning helps prevent clogs, eliminates odors, and keeps your disposal running smoothly. Here are a few easy and safe ways to clean your unit at home.

1. Ice and Salt Flush

  • Fill with ice cubes. Add a handful of coarse salt.
  • Turn on cold water and the disposal. This scrubs the blades and helps remove buildup.

2. Citrus Peel Freshen-Up

  • Add lemon or orange peels.
  • Run with cold water. This freshens the unit and helps clear grease.

3. Baking Soda and Vinegar Cleanse

  • Same method as above. Helps break down grime and odor-causing bacteria.

4. Dish Soap Scrub

  • Plug the drain and fill it partially with warm water and dish soap.
  • Unplug and run the disposal. This creates a soapy flush that cleans the interior.

Avoid using bleach or harsh drain cleaners. These can damage the unit and lead to corrosion over time.

Kitchen Plumbing Repair with Greenwell

If your garbage disposal is not working after troubleshooting, or you’re noticing recurring clogs and leaks, Greenwell Plumbing is here to help. Our team proudly serves New Albany, Louisville, Columbus, and all of Kentuckiana with expert kitchen plumbing repair, including garbage disposal diagnostics and installation.

We’ve worked in kitchens across the region and understand the common plumbing setups in Kentuckiana homes. Whether you need a quick repair or a new installation, our team will walk you through the options and get your kitchen back to normal.

Visit our kitchen plumbing services page, learn more about our garbage disposal repair and installation, or explore our blog for additional tips on DIY kitchen plumbing repair.

Get safe, professional help for your garbage disposal today. Contact Greenwell Plumbing for fast service in your area.