A garbage disposal is handy, but it's not a trash can. Most kitchen drain clogs we clear start with something that went down the disposal.
Do
- Run cold water before, during and for about 15 seconds after grinding.
- Feed food in small amounts rather than all at once.
- Grind soft food scraps and small bits of leftovers.
- Clean it occasionally by grinding ice cubes, then a few citrus peels for freshness.
Don't
- Grease, oil or fat. It solidifies in the pipe and traps everything else.
- Coffee grounds. They pack into sludge in the drain line.
- Eggshells. The membranes and grit build up.
- Fibrous foods like celery, corn husks, onion skins and artichokes. The strings wrap around the impeller.
- Starchy foods like pasta, rice and potato peels. They swell and turn to paste.
- Bones, fruit pits and shells.
- Chemical drain cleaners. They can damage the disposal and pipes.
If it hums but won't spin
- Turn off the switch and unplug the unit or turn off the breaker.
- Use the hex wrench that came with it (in the bottom center of the unit) to work the motor back and forth.
- Remove the jammed object with tongs, never your hand.
- Press the red reset button on the bottom, restore power and test with water running.
If it still won't run, leaks from the bottom, or the sink keeps backing up, it's time for a plumber to clear the line or replace the unit.
Need help?
Our drain cleaning team serves Davie and all of Broward County. Call (954) 870-5492.