A slow disposal drain solution is to use an enzyme drain cleaner. Mix about a double dose of enzyme, powdered or liquid, with 20 ounces of warm water in a non-food container. Pour the mixture into a running disposal shutting it off just as you finish pouring. Not only will this clear the drain line but it will help reduce an odorous disposal.

For the best results, do this at night when the drain will not be used for six hours or more.

It will take three days or more to improve a clogged drain line. Using enzymes to clear a drain is not the fastest way to clear a drain, just the safest and the most effective.

In an older house, people blame a slow kitchen drain on the age of the plumbing, or the use of the disposal that causes the slow drain? What is safe to put in the garbage disposal and what should not be disposed?

A garbage disposal used properly can handle all kinds of food wastes. Think of it as a flow-through blender.

All "biodegradable foods" can be run through a disposal. Melon rinds, banana peals, chicken bones, eggshells, coffee, meat, and fat are all disposable. What you do not want to put in a disposal are hi-fiber products. Things like cornhusks or cereal.

Once the drain is opened, I want to instill the habit of flushing the disposal with plenty of water after grinding up some food. Many people have a habit of turning the water off as soon as the food is ground-up. This can leave food in the trap or the drain line, soon leading to a clogged drain line. Run water for fifteen seconds after all the food is gone from the grinder. This will help clear the drain line after each use.

Always check the label on any drain cleaner to make sure it is safe to use in a disposal. Strong caustic drain cleaners can ruin a disposal.

Here are some quick disposal tips:

To free a jammed disposal, one that hums but does not run, use the Allen wrench provided with most disposals and insert it into the center of the bottom of the unit and try to free the motor.

If the motor turns freely with the Allen wrench but will still not run, try pushing the reset button located on the bottom of the disposal.

Be sure to turn off the power first.