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

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

A garbage disposal clogged can bring your kitchen routine to a sudden halt. Whether it's food debris, grease, or accidental items, clogs are a common issue—but the good news is that you can often fix them yourself without calling a plumber. At Derks Plumbing, we’ve put together this simple step-by-step guide to help you understand how to unclog a garbage disposal safely and efficiently.

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

1. Turn Off the Power

Safety comes first! Unplug the disposal or switch off the circuit breaker before doing any work.

2. Inspect for Obstructions

Use a flashlight to look inside the disposal. If you see objects like utensils or fibrous food, use tongs or pliers to remove them—never use your hands.

3. Use a Hex (Allen) Wrench

Insert the wrench into the hex hole under the disposal unit. Rotate it back and forth to manually free the jammed blades.

4. Press the Reset Button

Once the jam is cleared, press the red reset button located underneath the disposal.

5. Test the Unit

Plug it back in, run cold water, and turn the unit on. If it works smoothly, you've successfully unclogged the garbage disposal.

Still Stuck?

If the clog won’t budge, or you're not comfortable handling it yourself, don’t worry—Derks Plumbing is here to help. Our expert team can safely and quickly unclog your garbage disposal, getting your kitchen back to normal in no time.
For more information read this: unclog your garbage disposal