Slow draining disposal, but 2nd sink drains fine

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Captain Commode

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I noticed that I have to turn my disposal on to get it to drain if I leave the water on for any length of time. I've also noticed that my dishwasher is not doing as good a job, and both of these event started at the same time. The side-by-side second sink drains just fine, so I guess the problem is pretty much isolated to the disposal--yes? What is the likely problem and does it make sense that it is affecting my dishwasher? Thanks.
 

Terry

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You could have something clogging the baffle tee, if the other bowl is draining fine.
When a disposer gets old, it starts chopping things in larger pieces, which can become a problem. I change mine every eight years.

Have you refilled your Rinse-Aid for the dishwasher?

A slow draining disposer can back up into the dishwasher if there is no air-gap; if the dishwasher drains to the disposer.
 
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Dj2

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Just to add to Terry's comments:

Depending on your particular set up, the disposer drain arm to the end T may be blocked too.
 

Captain Commode

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Okay, thanks guys. The disposal is at least 10 yrs. old, so I'll replace it and see. I'm betting that does it.

And, yes, the dishwasher drains into the disposal.
 

hj

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Depending on where the blockage is, and HOW you replace the disposer, (not a Disposal unlees it was made by GE or Westinghouse), you could still have the problem afterwards.
 

Captain Commode

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Hmm, "how" I replace the disposer. I've done it a couple of times and it was the same both times. I wasn't aware of alternative installations. Dishwasher goes into disposer; plug has to be removed from disposer or draining dishwasher water comes shooting out the sink (we laughed like crazy).
 
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