What to Do When String Gets Stuck in Your Garbage Disposal

For many of us, an afternoon cup of tea is a luxury we enjoy. And while there are numerous tea houses in Tampa Bay, sometimes we like to make our own in the comfort of are own homes. But, what happens when we place our tea bag in the sink and it accidently falls into the drain and into the garbage disposal? To answer this question, the experts at Billy the Sunshine Plumber explore what to do when string gets tangled up in your garbage disposal.

Untangling the Mess

Garbage disposals are a convenient and time-saving kitchen appliance, efficiently grinding up food scraps and keeping your kitchen clean. However, they are not invincible and can get into a bind when faced with certain materials, such as string. So if you find yourself in a situation where string has become entangled in your garbage disposal, don’t panic. Just follow these steps to safely and effectively untangle the mess and get your disposal back in working order.

Turn Off the Power

The first and most important step is to ensure the garbage disposal is completely turned off before attempting to address the issue. So, locate the power switch beneath the sink or at the circuit breaker and turn it off to avoid any accidents.

Identify the Problem

Take a closer look at the disposal to identify the extent of the entanglement. For example, try to determine if the string is visible and reachable. Or if it’s wound around the disposal’s blades. Because, this information will help you decide on the appropriate course of action.

Use Pliers or Tongs

If the string is visible and within reach, use a pair of pliers or tongs to gently pull it out. But, be cautious not to force anything or damage the disposal. So, take your time and work methodically to avoid causing further complications.

Turn the Blades Manually

If the string is wrapped around the blades, you may need to manually turn them to unwind the material. Most garbage disposals come with a special tool, an Allen wrench, for this purpose. Just insert the wrench into the bottom of the disposal and turn it clockwise to free the blades. Again, be patient and avoid applying excessive force.

Try the Reset Button

In some cases, a tangled string may cause the garbage disposal to overheat, triggering a safety feature that shuts it down. So, look for a reset button on the bottom of the disposal and press it to reset the unit. Because, this may resolve the issue if the entanglement caused an overload.

Use Ice Cubes

If the string has created a blockage in the disposal, try using ice cubes. Just drop a handful of ice cubes into the disposal and run cold water while turning it on. Because, the ice will help break up the string and other materials, allowing them to be flushed out.

Consult a Professional

If you’ve tried the above steps and the problem persists, or if you’re uncomfortable dealing with the issue, it’s time to Google a plumber near me and talk with a licensed repair technician. Because they have the expertise and tools to handle more complex problems and get your garbage disposal back in working condition.

A Tangle of String or Twine in Your Garbage Disposal Doesn’t Have to Be a Disaster

While a tangled string or twine in your garbage disposal may seem like a daunting problem, with the steps outlined above you can help you untangle the mess safely. But, if you need a little extra help, the licensed plumbers at Billy the Sunshine Plumber is here to help.

Billy the Sunshine Plumber has been the Tampa Bay 24-hour plumber of choice since 1924 when he first opened for business. Plus they are open 24/7/365 in Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando and Citrus counties. So, days, nights, weekends, or holidays, Billy the Sunshine Plumber is always there for you.