Clogged Kitchen Sink With Disposal

A clogged kitchen sink with disposal can be a major inconvenience. Not only is it impossible to use the sink, but the smell can also be unbearable. If you're dealing with a clogged kitchen sink with disposal, there are a few things you can do to try to unclog it yourself. However, if the clog is severe, you may need to call a plumber.

Causes of Clogged Kitchen Sinks With Disposal

There are a number of things that can cause a kitchen sink with disposal to clog, including:

Food scraps
Grease
Soap scum
Mineral deposits
Foreign objects

Food scraps are the most common cause of clogged kitchen sinks with disposal. When food scraps are washed down the drain, they can get caught in the disposal and build up over time. Grease can also cause clogs, as it can solidify and stick to the sides of the drain and disposal. Soap scum and mineral deposits can also build up over time and contribute to clogs.

Foreign objects, such as toys, jewelry, or silverware, can also clog kitchen sinks with disposal. If a foreign object gets caught in the disposal, it can jam the blades and prevent the disposal from working properly. This can lead to a clog and backup of water in the sink.

How to Unclog a Kitchen Sink With Disposal

If your kitchen sink with disposal is clogged, there are a few things you can do to try to unclog it yourself.

Run hot water down the drain.

Hot water can help to dissolve grease and soap scum. Running hot water down the drain for a few minutes may be enough to clear a minor clog.

Use a plunger.

A plunger can help to create suction and dislodge a clog. Place the plunger over the drain and pump up and down vigorously for several minutes. This may be enough to clear a clog.

Use a drain snake.

A drain snake is a long, flexible cable with a hook or auger on the end. Insert the drain snake into the drain and feed it down until you reach the clog. Once you reach the clog, use the hook or auger to break it up and dislodge it. This may be enough to clear a clog.

Use a chemical drain cleaner.

Chemical drain cleaners can be effective at dissolving clogs. However, they can also be harsh on your pipes and should only be used as a last resort. Follow the directions on the package carefully when using a chemical drain cleaner.

If you have tried all of the above methods and you are still unable to unclog your kitchen sink with disposal, you may need to call a plumber. A plumber will have the tools and experience necessary to clear even the most stubborn clogs.