How to Unclog a Garbage Disposal: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Is your garbage disposal clogged and throwing off your kitchen routine? Whether it’s from grease buildup, food scraps, or an accidentally dropped utensil, garbage disposal clogs are a common inconvenience in many homes. The good news is—you can often fix it yourself without calling a plumber.

At Derks Plumbing, a reliable plumbing company in Los Angeles, we’ve created this easy-to-follow guide to help you unclog your garbage disposal quickly, safely, and effectively.

Step-by-Step: How to Unclog Your Garbage Disposal

1. Turn Off the Power
Safety comes first. Before you do anything, make sure the unit is powered off. Either unplug it from under the sink or shut off the power from your circuit breaker. This prevents any risk of electrical shock or injury.

2. Look Inside the Unit
Use a flashlight to inspect the inside of the disposal. Look for obvious blockages like food particles, bone fragments, or even small utensils. Remove any debris using tongs or pliers—never use your hands, even if the unit is turned off.

3. Free Up the Blades Manually
Find the hex socket on the bottom of the disposal (usually in the center). Insert an Allen wrench and turn it gently back and forth. This can loosen jammed material and allow the impellers to move freely again.

4. Press the Reset Button
Once you’ve cleared the obstruction, locate the red reset button on the bottom of the unit. Press it to reset the internal breaker and restore power to the motor.

5. Restore Power and Test
Plug the unit back in or turn the breaker back on. Run cold water through the sink and switch on the disposal. If it sounds normal and drains properly, your garbage disposal is now clear and working correctly.

When to Call the Pros

If your disposal still won’t turn on or the clog remains stubborn, it’s time to bring in expert help. At Derks Plumbing, we’re proud to be the best plumbing company Los Angeles homeowners trust for fast, professional service. Whether it’s a minor jam or a more serious issue, our skilled technicians can diagnose and resolve the problem efficiently.
If your disposal still won’t turn on or the clog remains stubborn, it’s time to bring in expert help. At Derks Plumbing, we’re proud to be the best plumbing company Los Angeles homeowners trust for fast, professional service. Whether it’s a minor jam or a more serious issue, our skilled technicians can diagnose and resolve the problem efficiently.
If your disposal still won’t turn on or the clog remains stubborn, it’s time to bring in expert help. At Derks Plumbing, we’re proud to be the best plumbing company Los Angeles homeowners trust for fast, professional service. Whether it’s a minor jam or a more serious issue, our skilled technicians can diagnose and resolve the problem efficiently.
If your disposal still won’t turn on or the clog remains stubborn, it’s time to bring in expert help. At Derks Plumbing, we’re proud to be the best plumbing company Los Angeles homeowners trust for fast, professional service. Whether it’s a minor jam or a more serious issue, our skilled technicians can diagnose and resolve the problem efficiently.
If your disposal still won’t turn on or the clog remains stubborn, it’s time to bring in expert help. At Derks Plumbing, we’re proud to be the best plumbing company Los Angeles homeowners trust for fast, professional service. Whether it’s a minor jam or a more serious issue, our skilled technicians can diagnose and resolve the problem efficiently.
If your disposal still won’t turn on or the clog remains stubborn, it’s time to bring in expert help. At Derks Plumbing, we’re proud to be the best plumbing company Los Angeles homeowners trust for fast, professional service. Whether it’s a minor jam or a more serious issue, our skilled technicians can diagnose and resolve the problem efficiently.
If your disposal still won’t turn on or the clog remains stubborn, it’s time to bring in expert help. At Derks Plumbing, we’re proud to be the best plumbing company Los Angeles homeowners trust for fast, professional service. Whether it’s a minor jam or a more serious issue, our skilled technicians can diagnose and resolve the problem efficiently.

Looking for a trusted Los Angeles plumbing company? Derks Plumbing is just one call away. We’ll get your kitchen back on track in no time.

Learn more or schedule your service today: How to Unclog a Garbage Disposal