My Garbage Disposal Makes a Bubbling Sound

Running the Disposal

• One of the best ways to keep a garbage disposal in proper working order, and keep clog and air bubbles from forming, is to run the garbage disposal regularly. Whenever you dump food waste down the drain, always run cold water before flipping the switch to turn the disposal on. Leave the cold water running 10 to 15 seconds after turning the disposal off. This helps move any debris through the pipes to prevent clogs from forming.

Cleaning the Disposal

• Cleaning is an important step in ensuring that clogs do not form in a garbage disposal and that the disposal doesn’t make a bubbling or gurgling sound when water is run down the drain. To keep the disposal debris-free, put small bones and eggshells down the drain occasionally to sharpen the disposal blades, which ensures the proper breakdown of food and prevents clogging. If the garbage disposal starts bubbling, drop some ice into the drain and run the disposal with cold water to sharpen blades and clear food debris and grease.

Unclogging the Disposal

• If the garbage disposal has a clog within the chamber, you may be able to remove the clog yourself without having to open the disposal. Unplug the garbage disposal from the wall if you have access to the plug, or turn the power in the kitchen off at the breaker box. Place the L-shaped wrench provided with the disposal into the hole that it fits at the bottom of the disposal. Twist the wrench gently back and forth to loosen debris stuck in the blades. Once the blades turn freely, turn the power on and run the disposal with cold water.

When to Call a Pro

• If the garbage disposal still makes a bubbling sound once all clogs have been removed from the disposal and you have attempted to clean the pipes, the problem is probably deeper in the pipes. Unclogging pipes generally requires a lot of know-how or a professional plumber. A plumber can also determine if the cause of bubbling in your garbage disposal is that the plumbing system needs a vent, and then the plumber can install the vent properly in the system.