Garbage disposal has standing water that won't drain at all

Symptoms

• Sink fills with water and doesn't drain even after running the disposal
• Water level stays the same regardless of how long the disposal runs
• Gurgling or no sound at all as water sits
• Other drains nearby may also be slow or blocked

Likely causes

• CommonFull clog in the P-trap or drain line after the disposalThe disposal can grind fine but has nowhere for the water to go if the line past it is blocked.
• PossibleObject fell down the drain and is lodged in the trap, not the disposalSmall items can pass through the disposal and lodge further down.
• PossibleMain drain line blockage affecting multiple fixturesA bigger downstream clog can present as a completely blocked kitchen sink.

What to do

1. Confirm the disposal itself isn't jammed by checking that the flywheel spins freely with power off using the hex wrench.
2. Place a bucket under the sink and remove the P-trap to check for a blockage right at that point.
3. Clear out any debris found in the trap and reassemble it, using new washers if the old ones look worn.
4. If the trap is clear, run a drain snake through the trap arm toward the wall to check the line beyond it.
5. Check whether other sinks, the dishwasher, or a nearby tub also drain slowly, which suggests a shared line issue.
6. If snaking the trap doesn't restore drainage, the blockage is likely further down the line.

Tools and parts

• Bucket
• Adjustable pliers
• Drain snake
• 1/4-inch hex wrench

When to call a pro

If clearing the trap doesn't restore drainage or multiple fixtures are affected, call a plumber to snake the main line.

Safety