Garbage disposal drains very slowly or water backs up into sink when running

Safety first: Turn OFF power to the disposal. Do not use chemical drain cleaners in a disposal-equipped sink.

• Step 1 – Run disposal with water: With power restored, run cold water and operate the disposal briefly. If the grinding sounds normal but water does not drain, the blockage is likely in the drain piping, not the disposal.
• Step 2 – Clean the baffle/splash guard: Turn power OFF. Remove the rubber splash guard (on some GE models it is removable from above) and clean any food buildup that may be restricting flow.
• Step 3 – Clear the P-trap: Place a bucket under the P-trap, loosen the slip nuts, and remove the trap. Clean out any debris or grease. Check the horizontal drain arm and wall stub for obstructions.
• Step 4 – Reassemble and test: Reinstall the trap, tighten slip nuts, restore power, and test with water running. If drainage is still slow, the clog may be further in the wall and require a plumber's auger.

Warning: Avoid using caustic drain cleaners; they can damage the disposal and pose a burn hazard during disassembly.