why is my garbage disposal won't flush

Plumbing

The answer to 'why is my garbage disposal won't flush' is that a clogged or jammed garbage disposal is the most common cause. This can happen when food, debris, or foreign objects get stuck in the disposal, preventing proper drainage and flushing.

Some common symptoms include the disposal making a humming noise but not spinning, water backing up in the sink, or a foul odor coming from the drain. To troubleshoot, first try resetting the disposal by pressing the reset button on the bottom. If that doesn't work, you may need to manually clear a jam or call a professional plumber.

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. 1

    Reset the Disposal

    Locate the reset button on the bottom of the disposal unit and press it to see if that clears the jam.

  2. 2

    Remove Visible Debris

    Use tongs or pliers to carefully remove any food, objects, or debris that you can see stuck in the disposal.

  3. 3

    Call a Plumber

    If resetting the disposal and removing visible debris doesn't work, it's best to call a professional plumber to diagnose and fix the issue.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I clear a jammed garbage disposal?

To clear a jammed disposal, first try using tongs or pliers to remove any visible debris. You can also try resetting the disposal by pressing the reset button on the bottom.

When should I call a plumber for a garbage disposal issue?

If you're unable to clear the jam yourself or the disposal is making unusual noises, it's best to call a professional plumber to diagnose and repair the issue.

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