A garbage disposal is a wonderful convenience that simplifies cooking and cleaning. However, when broken glass falls into the drain and jams the works, it takes ingenuity to remove it. B Sales Trucking, Excavation, Pumping & Plumbing Services, the premier plumbing contractor in Makawao, HI, explains below how to remove the glass from your garbage disposal.

To remove glass from a garbage disposal without calling a plumbing contractor, follow the steps below:

• Unplug Disposal: First, unplug the disposal unit. If you cannot see a plug and socket, remove the appropriate fuse or switch off the breaker in the main electrical panel. This prevents the unit from accidentally getting turned on during the process, which could lead to a serious injury.
• Remove Large Pieces: Peer into the drain using a flashlight, locate any large pieces, and withdraw them from the drain using long-nosed pliers. Dispose of the glass by wrapping it in newspaper or paper towel to avoid shredding your garbage liner.  
• Dislodge Glass: If any glass is trapped under the grinder mechanism, dislodge it by inserting an Allen-wrench into the port under the unit, and twist it back and forth. This rotates the grinders and should release any trapped pieces. If no Allen-wrench port exists, stick a broom handle or ruler into the drain and move the grinder in the same direction.
• Vacuum: Insert the hose of a wet-dry vac into the drain and remove the rest of the loose glass pieces via suction. Continue doing so until you no longer hear debris traveling through the hose.
• Reset Disposal: Once you’ve finished, reconnect the disposal unit and run the cold water. Turn on the disposal, which should run smoothly now that the glass is gone.

B Sales Trucking, Excavation, Pumping & Plumbing Services is the most dependable plumbing contractor in Makawao, HI, and serves the entire island of Maui. They offer numerous support services for any construction, landscaping, or paving job. Call (808) 264-3281 to request a free estimate or to speak with a friendly, knowledgeable professional. You can also follow them on Google+.