How to fix a garbage disposal with standing water & prevent more problems

While a bit of water might not seem like a huge deal, standing water in your disposal isn’t something to brush off. Let’s check out why this happens and how you can tackle it yourself.

Important: The info in this article might not match your exact appliance model. We aim to offer useful advice for all sorts of DIY appliance repairs, but different models and setups can mean variations in troubleshooting steps, error codes, parts, etc. For best guidance, we highly recommend checking the manufacturer’s documentation for your specific appliance model or giving us a shout if you’ve got any questions.

Why is there water sitting in my garbage disposal?

Normally, water should flow right through your garbage disposal and down the drain. If it starts to back up, it’s often a sign of a clog or some other underlying issue. Let’s look at some common reasons this might be happening.

1. Clogs in the disposal or drain line

A frequent cause is a clog inside the disposal unit or the nearby drain pipes. Food scraps, grease, and other debris can build up over time, causing blockages.

Signs of a clogged disposal

• Water drains slowly or does not drain.
• Bad smells coming from the sink.
• Unusual noises when you run the disposal.

2. Using the disposal improperly

What you put into your garbage disposal matters a lot. Certain items can clog or even damage the unit.

Things to avoid putting in your disposal

• Grease and oils: They harden and create blockages.
• Bones: Too tough for the disposal to grind up.
• Coffee grounds: Can form a dense sludge in the pipes.
• Fibrous foods: Items like celery, corn husks, and onion skins can wrap around the blades.

3. Leaks and mechanical issues

Leaks in your disposal system can cause water to pool around or inside the unit.

Common causes of leaks

• Worn seals: Seals can wear out over time.
• Loose connections: Pipes and hoses might loosen up due to vibrations.
• Corrosion: Metal parts can rust and develop holes.

How to fix standing water in your garbage disposal

1. Clear the clog with a sink plunger

A sink plunger can often dislodge minor clogs.

Steps:

1. Fill the sink with enough water to cover the plunger’s cup.
2. Place the plunger over the drain, making sure it seals well.
3. Pump the plunger up and down vigorously for about 20 seconds.
4. Lift the plunger to see if the water drains away.
5. Repeat if needed.

2. Use a drain snake

If plunging doesn’t help, a drain snake might be a better option.

Steps:

1. Feed the drain snake into the drain opening.
2. Turn the handle clockwise to push it further in.
3. When you feel resistance, you’ve likely hit the clog.
4. Twist and wiggle the snake to break up the blockage.
5. Slowly pull the snake out and run water to check the flow.

3. Remove and clean the P-trap

The P-trap is the curved pipe under your sink that can catch debris.

Steps:

1. Place a bucket under the P-trap to catch any water.
2. Loosen the slip nuts on both ends of the P-trap with pliers.
3. Take off the P-trap and dump any debris into the bucket.
4. Clean the inside of the P-trap with a brush.
5. Put the P-trap back and tighten the slip nuts snugly.
6. Run water to make sure the clog is gone.

4. Check for disposal blockages

Sometimes, the clog is right inside the disposal unit.

Steps:

1. Safety first: Turn off the disposal and unplug it.
2. Use a flashlight to check inside the disposal for any obvious blockages.
3. Use tongs or pliers (never your hands) to remove any debris.
4. After clearing, plug it back in and run the disposal with water to test.

5. Run the disposal regularly with water

Running it regularly helps flush out particles and prevent clogs.

Tips:

• Always run cold water before, during, and after using the disposal.
• Keep the water flowing for at least 15 seconds after you turn off the disposal.

Preventing future standing water issues

Stopping problems before they start is the way to go. Here’s how to keep your garbage disposal running smoothly.

1. Be careful of what you put down the disposal

Only toss in biodegradable food waste that’s small enough to grind up.

Dos:

• Soft food scraps.
• Small bits of citrus peels to freshen things up.
• Use cold water when running the disposal.

Don’ts:

• Large bones or fruit pits.
• Non-food items.
• Foods that expand, like pasta or rice.

2. Perform regular maintenance

Keep your disposal clean and in good working order.

Tips:

• Grind up ice cubes to help clean the blades.
• Use baking soda and vinegar to clean and get rid of odors.
• Steer clear of chemical drain cleaners, they can harm the unit.

When to consider replacing your disposal

If your garbage disposal is old or regularly needs repairs, it might be time for a new one.

Signs you need a new disposal

• Regular clogs even when you’re using it properly.
• Bad smells that just won’t go away.
• Worn or damaged mechanical parts.
• Leaks that don’t stop after tightening connections.

Remember, knowing your appliance’s model number can help you find the right replacement parts. Check out our guide on how to find your appliance’s model number.

We’re here to help

Thanks for reading! If you need replacement parts, grab your model number and head to AppliancePartsPros.com. We offer over two million parts and most orders arrive in two business days. If you need help finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

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