How to Unclog a Kitchen Sink with a Garbage Disposal: A Complete Guide

If you’re dealing with standing water and a garbage disposal that’s not working as it should, you’re not alone. Clogged kitchen sinks are a common household issue, especially when the disposal is involved. Fortunately, knowing how to unclog a kitchen sink with a garbage disposal can save you from costly plumbing repairs and keep your kitchen running smoothly.

At Neighborhood Plumbing & Drain, we believe in empowering homeowners with practical solutions. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to safely and effectively clear a clogged kitchen sink with a garbage disposal, explain why your garbage disposal might not be working, and offer preventative tips to keep your system flowing freely.

Common Causes of Kitchen Sink Clogs

Before diving into the unclogging process, it’s important to understand what typically causes these clogs:

Grease and Oil Buildup: Grease may go down the drain as a liquid, but it solidifies as it cools, creating sticky blockages.
Food Scraps: Items like coffee grounds, eggshells, pasta, and fibrous vegetables can accumulate and cause clogs.
Improper Use of Garbage Disposal: Overloading the disposal or putting in non-grindable items can lead to jams and backups.
Foreign Objects: Small utensils, bottle caps, or other items can accidentally fall into the drain, blocking water flow.

Step-by-Step: How to Unclog a Kitchen Sink with a Garbage Disposal

1. Safety First – Cut the Power

Before attempting any unclogging methods, always turn off the power to the garbage disposal. This can be done by unplugging the unit under the sink or switching it off at the circuit breaker.

Why? This prevents accidental activation while you’re working and ensures your safety.

2. Check for Visible Blockages

Shine a flashlight into the disposal unit. If you see any foreign objects, carefully remove them using tongs or pliers.

Never use your hands inside the garbage disposal—even with the power off, it’s a risky move.

3. Use the Reset Button

If your garbage disposal is not working, it might have tripped its internal breaker.

Find the red reset button on the bottom of the unit.
Press it firmly until it clicks.
Restore power and test the disposal.

If it works again, the problem might have been a simple overload. If not, continue with the unclogging process.

4. Try the Allen Wrench Method

Most garbage disposals have a small hex hole on the bottom that allows you to manually rotate the blades.

Insert an Allen wrench (usually 1/4 inch) into the hole.
Turn it back and forth to dislodge any stuck debris.

This simple step often frees up jammed impellers and helps restore functionality.

5. Use Baking Soda and Vinegar

This natural cleaning solution helps break down minor clogs and neutralizes odors:

Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda into the drain.
Follow it with 1 cup of white vinegar.
Allow the mixture to fizz for 10-15 minutes.
Rinse with hot water.

This method works best for mild clogs and routine maintenance.

6. Plunge the Sink

If the clog persists, it’s time to grab a sink plunger:

Block the second sink drain (if you have a double sink) with a wet rag or stopper.
Fill the sink partially with water.
Position the plunger over the clogged drain and plunge vigorously for 30 seconds.
Test the drain by running water to see if the clog has cleared.

7. Check the P-Trap

If none of the above methods work, the clog may be lodged in the P-trap (the curved pipe under the sink).

Place a bucket under the P-trap to catch water.
Loosen the slip nuts and remove the trap.
Clean out any debris and reassemble the trap.
Test the drain again.

Note: If you’re uncomfortable removing plumbing parts, consider calling a professional plumber.

What If Your Garbage Disposal Is Still Not Working?

If you’ve tried these methods and your garbage disposal is not working, it could be a sign of:

Motor Failure: The disposal’s motor may have burned out and require replacement.
Electrical Issues: A faulty switch or wiring could be preventing power from reaching the unit.
Severe Internal Damage: Jammed or broken blades may require professional repair or a new disposal installation.

In these cases, it’s best to contact a licensed plumber to inspect the issue and recommend the appropriate solution.

Preventative Tips to Avoid Future Clogs

Run Cold Water While Using the Disposal: Cold water keeps grease solid, making it easier to chop and flush away.
Avoid Hard-to-Grind Foods: Steer clear of putting bones, fruit pits, fibrous vegetables (like celery and corn husks), and coffee grounds into the disposal.
Cut Waste into Small Pieces: Feed small amounts of food waste gradually to prevent overloading the system.
Regular Maintenance: Clean the disposal weekly using baking soda and vinegar or lemon peels to keep it fresh and odor-free.

Here’s an additional tip on how to prevent drain clogs to help prevent future clogs.

When to Call a Professional

While DIY methods often solve minor clogs, sometimes the problem is more serious. If you experience:

Frequent clogs despite careful use
A garbage disposal that hums but doesn’t grind
Persistent foul odors that won’t go away
Leaks under the sink

…it’s time to call the experts at Neighborhood Plumbing & Drain. Our skilled technicians can diagnose and fix even the toughest kitchen plumbing problems efficiently and safely.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to unclog a kitchen sink with a garbage disposal can save you time, stress, and unnecessary repair costs. Whether you’re dealing with a simple blockage or a disposal that’s not working properly, these steps will help you troubleshoot effectively.

However, if the clog persists or the disposal fails to respond, trust the professionals at Neighborhood Plumbing & Drain and contact us! We’re here to keep your garbage disposals and kitchen running smoothly and your plumbing in top condition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What should I do if my garbage disposal hums but doesn’t work?
This usually indicates a jammed impeller. Try using the Allen wrench method to manually turn the disposal and free the jam. If that doesn’t work, call a professional to avoid motor damage.
Can I use chemical drain cleaners to unclog my kitchen sink?
It’s not recommended. Chemical cleaners can damage your plumbing pipes and the seals within your garbage disposal. Opt for natural solutions like baking soda and vinegar or contact a professional.
How often should I clean my garbage disposal?
For optimal performance, clean your garbage disposal weekly with baking soda and vinegar. Grinding ice cubes and citrus peels occasionally can also help keep the blades clean and reduce odors.
Is it safe to unclog the disposal myself?
Yes, as long as you follow proper safety precautions by turning off the power and using the correct tools. Avoid placing your hands inside the disposal at all times.

5. When should I replace my garbage disposal?
If your disposal frequently jams, makes unusual noises, or fails to turn on despite troubleshooting, it may be time for a replacement. Most disposals last between 8-15 years depending on usage and maintenance.