Why Your Garbage Disposal Keeps Jamming and How to Fix It

The good news is that most jams have clear causes and practical fixes. If you’re not sure what’s going on or want a fast solution, then keep calm and read on. Don’t hesitate to call Texas Rooter for reliable plumbing repair service. We’re here to help you get things back to normal quickly and safely.

Why Garbage Disposals Keep Jamming

Understanding why your garbage disposal jams is the first step to fixing it and even preventing it from happening again. Some of the usual suspects include:

• Putting the Wrong Items Down the Drain: Foods that are tough, fibrous, or starchy can easily cause jams. Common culprits include celery, corn husks, onion skins, potato peels, banana peels, pasta, coffee grounds, bones, and fruit pits. These can wrap around impellers and/or create thick clogs.
• Lack of Water Flow: Without enough water, food scraps can stick together and block the unit. Running cold water before, during, and after use helps keep everything moving smoothly.
• Dull or Worn Components: The grinding components inside your disposal can wear down over time and struggle to break down food. If your unit is over 10 years old, it might be time for a garbage disposal replacement.
• Overloading: Trying to process too much waste at once is a common mistake. Even a powerful disposal has limits.

It should go without saying that non-food items like utensils and bottle caps should not go in the disposal. These objects can cause serious damage if the unit is turned on while they’re inside.

How to Fix a Jammed Garbage Disposal

Before attempting any fix, remember to turn off the power to the unit by flipping the circuit breaker off and unplugging if possible.

With that said, your first step should be to check for obstructions. Use a flashlight to look inside the disposal. If you see a foreign object, carefully remove it using tongs or pliers (NOT your hand). Run cold water to flush out any remaining debris.

Still not working? Reset the disposal. If the unit has overheated or shut off due to a jam, pressing this button may restore function.

If that doesn’t work, then pull out your Allen wrench. Most units come with a hex (Allen) wrench that fits into a slot underneath the disposal. Turning the wrench manually can help free stuck impellers. Move it back and forth until you feel the resistance loosen.

When to Call a Professional

While some jams are easy to fix, others call for expert attention. If your disposal keeps jamming, makes unusual noises, or won’t turn on, then it’s time to call a plumber in McKinney, TX.

A uniformed pro from Texas Rooter can diagnose the actual issue, repair or replace damaged components, and make sure the system is functioning correctly.

In some cases, replacing the unit may be more cost-effective than repeated repairs. We can handle that as well, if necessary.

Tips to Prevent Future Jams

Proper care and use goes a long way in keeping your garbage disposal installation in great shape. Remember to:

• Always run cold water while using the unit
• Avoid putting problem foods down the drain
• Cut larger items into smaller pieces
• Clean the disposal regularly
• Don’t overload the system

These simple habits can extend the life of your disposal and reduce the need for emergency plumbing repair service. In any case, the pros at Texas Rooter are always here to help.