Why Do I Have a Garbage Disposal Clog?

Few things are as frustrating as a garbage disposal clog, and they always seem to happen at the worst possible times. If you have ever had to deal with a kitchen sink that just won’t drain after processing some food waste in your garbage disposal, you have likely wondered why your disposal clogs and how you can prevent it. In this week’s blog, we will discuss a few common causes of this problem so that you can avoid dealing with a garbage disposal clog in the future. Remember to call the professionals at Metcalf Plumbing to resolve your critical plumbing issues.

Putting the Wrong Foods Down the Drain

Some folks use their garbage disposal as a one-size-fits-all food waste disposal system, and this can cause significant harm to your unit. Putting things like citrus rind, eggshells, and vegetable skins down the drain can cause your blades to become stuck or dull, create waste that blocks your pipes, or cause your motor to burn out. While small amounts of some food waste are perfectly acceptable, you should avoid putting tough or stringy material through your garbage disposal. When in doubt, throw it out — or better yet, compost it!

Putting Too Much Material in Your Garbage Disposal

Another common cause of garbage disposal clogs is putting too much material down the drain at once. While it might seem like your disposal is the best way to deal with that heaping dish of leftover pasta, bear in mind that expandable foods like pasta and rice can quickly soak up water and clog your sink. Putting too much material that cannot be processed into your garbage disposal can clog the trap, causing your sink to fill with smelly water. Use your garbage disposal on small amounts of food waste at a time, and be sure to run water down the drain while you operate your unit.

Putting Non-Foods in the Sink

Whether by accident or on purpose, putting items that are not food in your garbage disposal is a sure-fire way to cause a clog. Things like silverware can easily slip down into your garbage disposal, but things like rubber bands, shot glasses, and twist ties can also wreak havoc. You should also avoid putting bones down the drain, as they can dull or immobilize your garbage disposal blades. If you experience any problems with your garbage disposal or other plumbing fixtures, contact the team at Metcalf Plumbing. Our dedicated experts work quickly and efficiently to restore your plumbing to its proper function.

Experience the Metcalf Plumbing Difference

Metcalf Plumbing is a customer-focused plumbing contractor serving residential and commercial clients throughout the Catonsville, Ellicott City and surrounding areas. From water heater installation, sump pump installation and repair to water and sewer line replacement, Metcalf Plumbing is a trusted resource to call on when you need help with your plumbing services. We are not commission-based and we provide honest, upfront costs with a thorough inspection of your system and suggested next steps. Our trained and courteous technicians are standing by to provide quality comfort at competitive prices. You can call us at 410-242-311 and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Twitter!