Home Repair for a Dishwasher Drain Disposal

• 1

  Turn off the power to both the disposal and the dishwasher. In most installations, you can cut the dishwasher power at the main circuit breaker. Look for a circuit map that tells you what each switch controls. Turn the switch for the dishwasher circuit to the "Off" position. Repeat the process for the garbage disposal. Some disposal units may plug into the nearest outlet, in which case you can simply remove the plug.

• 2

  Remove any objects beneath the disposal to give yourself room to work.

• 3

  Search for the hexagonal socket on the underside of the disposal. It will be about 1/4 inch wide. Insert the smaller end of the disposal tool into the socket.

• 4

  Rotate the wrench either clockwise or counterclockwise until it stops. Turn it in the opposite direction until it does the same thing. Move the wrench back and forward between the two stopping points to dislodge the object.

• 5

  Insert the end of a wooden spoon into the disposal from above if you cannot find the disposal tool. Use the spoon to move the disposal blades back and forth to loosen the blockage.

• 6

  Press the "Reset" button on the underside of the disposal.

• 7

  Follow the dishwasher drain hose to where it meets the disposal. Place a towel underneath the connection. Loosen the hose clamp with a screwdriver. Pull the dishwasher drain hose off the disposal. Check the end of the hose and the disposal inlet for blocks or clogs. Run the plumber's snake to clear any blockages. Replace the drain hose. Secure it with the clamp.

• 8

  Restore the power to the dishwasher and disposal. Run water in the sink. Turn on the disposal and ensure that it's working.

• 9

  Run a short load in the dishwasher and check that it's draining properly.

Unclogging the Trap

• 10

  Place a bucket underneath the curved, p-trap, portion of the drain.

• 11

  Loosen the couplings on either side of the p-trap. Pull the p-trap out of the plumbing and empty it into the bucket.

• 12

  Run a snake or bit of flexible tubing through the p-trap to clear out any clogs inside. Flush the trap out in another sink or outside with a garden hose.

• 13

  Replace the p-trap into the plumbing. Tighten the couplings with the pliers.

• 14

  Run water in the sink and test that the clog is gone.