(Newswire.net — February 4, 2019) — You run the garbage disposal and notice that water is starting to back up in both basins of your sink. But it’s not only water, but there are also food scraps that float up. This isn’t a good sign because it would indicate some issues with a clogged drain system. If left unattended for an extended period, it might lead to more serious problems. Keep reading to find out some common causes of the issue and what to do when your garbage disposal water comes back up. Read garbage disposal reviews to find a disposal which will serve you for years.

Why Does Your Garbage Disposal Clog?

A garbage disposal is basically a workhorse device in most kitchens, which is usually taken for granted. It is useful in grinding most food waste, but this process might also cause clogs.

The main reason for this issue mainly comes from how your ground food waste reacts to the shortage of water after the device grinds up and sends them to the drain line. When this occurs, you will usually find the issue in its trap pipe. The blocked or poor drainage could be triggered by a few reasons below.

Flushing Water

Accredited Appliance of Arizona mentions that the most common cause of a clogged drain is the lack of water for flushing when the disposer grinds. Without a sufficient amount of water, the waste cannot be removed through the pipes and food waste might build up quickly. Once a complete blockage happens, water cannot flow through the drain at all.

Grinding Coffee Grounds or Egg Shells

When ground, coffee grounds or egg shells produce tiny granular waste which would stick to any slime in the pipes and cause a clog quickly. That’s why it’s important to not throw certain items down the garbage disposal.

Potato or Banana Peels

Potato and banana peels are a notorious clog maker. Once ground, they create stringy fibers or starchy pastes which can clog the drain quickly.

How to Fix Garbage Disposal with Water that Comes Back Up

If your garbage disposal is draining extremely slowly or not at all, then the issue probably comes from its drain trap, which is the S or P-shaped plumbing fitting based after the discharge pipe. Here are 4 simple steps to help you resolve this problem:

Step 1

Put a catch bucket under the drain trap of the disposal. Disconnect its slip-nut fittings with pliers, then remove the drain trap. It is quite common for water to over spill on the pipes when you take them away.

Step 2

Check for obstructions or clogs in the fitting. Clogs will often happen in the sharp bend of the drain trap. The best way to unclog any debris is to use a scrub brush.

Step 3

If the clogs aren’t in the trap, you should check the drain arm which links to the branch pipe connecting with the wall. Use a sink auger to clear the obstruction and clog.

Step 4

Assemble the drain fittings again, and run water down through the garbage disposal for a few minutes to clean any loose debris via the drain pipe.

Bottom Line

There is nothing more unappealing in a kitchen than having to face garbage disposal water coming back up. This does not only spread germs and stink, but it is also a hassle as well. If you follow our guide above, it is simple to get your garbage disposal working properly and avoid this issue. In case you need any major fixes or repairs, it is better to call a professional service.