If your kitchen sink is not draining as it should, you may think your garbage disposal is clogged, but it’s possible you have a different plumbing issue brewing. Before you jump to the conclusion of a clog in your disposal, consider the symptoms indicating a disposal clog as well as other kitchen sink plumbing problems that may be to blame.
Signs of a Clogged Garbage Disposal
Has someone been putting eggshells down the garbage disposal again? The most common culprits of a clogged disposal are items going down it that should not. Eggshells, coffee grounds, potato peels, and banana peels are the biggest offenders for creating stubborn clogs. Another common instigator: not flushing enough running water down the disposal when in use.
If the disposal is draining slowly, or not at all, there may be a back up of waste in the U-shaped drain trap. However, if you notice other plumbing problems at the same time, the issue may be related to the plumbing instead of the garbage disposal.
Signs It May Be a Plumbing Issue Instead of a Disposal Clog
When you run the garbage disposal, does it turn on and make noise, but the sink will not drain? If so, you may have a clog further down in the pipe. Over time, a buildup of grease and other debris can create plumbing clogs that aren’t necessarily related to the garbage disposal.
Other potential pipe issues that can cause a slow kitchen sink drain include:
- A leak at the pipe’s connection to the dishwasher
- An old gasket that requires replacement near the discharge drainpipe
- A loose mounting bolt that should hold the disposal to the drain opening
- A sewer backup
- Corroded or clogged plumbing pipes
If you notice other plumbing problems in addition to the garbage disposal not working, you may have a deeper issue. And your issue may require professional attention.
What to Do If Your Garbage Disposal Seems Clogged
If you see an item inside your garbage disposal, disconnect the appliance from the power source. Then you should use a pair of tongs to remove it to see if it solves the problem. Never push your hands down into the disposal because the blades can cause injury. Even if the power is off, the switch may be defective.
In case you have noticed other plumbing problems, such as leaking or slow drains, your best plan of action is to contact a reliable plumber. A qualified plumbing business will send out an expert who can diagnose the problem and provide a quick solution to the issue.
Let Us Solve Your Plumbing Hassles
At Progressive Plumbing, we are a small, family-owned business dedicated to meeting the plumbing repair needs of Atlanta-area residents. We provide expert plumbing repair at fair prices. We will get to the bottom of your garbage disposal or plumbing problem right away.
Connect with us online now or call 404.644.9734 to schedule service and find out if your garbage disposal is clogged or if you are dealing with another plumbing concern.
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