Garbage Disposal Do’s and Don’ts
Garbage disposals are convenient modern appliances that simplify your daily kitchen cleanup. If you’ve had the chance to use a garbage disposal, you likely find it incredibly helpful for getting rid of food scraps and waste after cooking. However, it’s not as simple as just tossing everything into the disposal and forgetting about it. Proper maintenance and usage are crucial to keep your garbage disposal running smoothly and avoid potential plumbing issues.
As the holidays approach, increased cooking and cleaning can put extra strain on your garbage disposal. To avoid lasting plumbing problems, give your garbage disposal the care and respect it deserves. By keeping it clean and operational and only disposing of appropriate waste, you can ensure it continues to serve you well.
Here are some essential tips and tricks to help you maintain your garbage disposal and keep it in great working condition.
Do’s
Professional Installation
Ensure your garbage disposal unit is installed by a professional. Proper installation is key to avoiding future problems with its functioning. It should be correctly connected to the plumbing and dishwasher.
Regular Use
Run cold water through the garbage disposal regularly, even if you don’t use it often. This practice helps prevent the unit’s parts from corroding and keeps items from getting stuck.
Flush After Each Use
Run cold water whenever you use the garbage disposal, and continue running it for 15-20 seconds after turning off the unit. This helps fats congeal so they can be ground up instead of sticking to the pipes.
Regular Cleaning
Clean your garbage disposal regularly to eliminate foul smells and ensure the cutting blades remain sharp. Cutting up a citrus fruit, such as a lemon, and feeding it through the unit (including the peel) can help. The acid in the peel helps clean and deodorize the disposal, leaving it smelling fresh.
Check for Fallen Items
Before turning on the garbage disposal, check for any fallen items like spoons, bottle caps, jewelry, or other small objects. If you find any, turn off the disposal and use tongs to retrieve the items.
Don’ts
Don’t Treat Your Garbage Disposal as a Trash Can
Your garbage disposal is designed to process small table scraps, not large amounts of food. Overloading it can cause clogs.
Avoid Certain Foods
Keep excessive amounts of pasta, potato peels, rice, and other starchy foods out of the disposal. Coffee grounds should also be avoided. While these items may not harm the disposal itself, they can accumulate in your pipes and cause clogs.
No Grease, Oils, or Fat (GOF)
Grease, oils, and fats can cause major problems for your garbage disposal. While it might seem harmless to pour hot grease down the drain, it will congeal and harden, leading to clogs. Instead, let grease cool and solidify before disposing of it in the trash.
Don’t Use Hot Water for Flushing
Always use cold water to flush your garbage disposal after use. Hot water can melt fats and grease, causing them to stick to the pipes and create clogs. Cold water, on the other hand, helps solidify fats so they can be ground up by the disposal.
Never Reach into the Garbage Disposal
Avoid putting your hands into the garbage disposal to retrieve fallen items. Even if the unit is turned off, use protective gloves or tongs to protect your hands from the sharp blades.
Why Regular Maintenance is Crucial
Maintaining your garbage disposal isn’t just about preventing clogs and odors. It’s also about ensuring the longevity of the appliance and the overall health of your plumbing system. Neglecting maintenance can lead to breakdowns, blocked drains, and costly repairs.
Regular use and proper maintenance help keep the disposal’s blades sharp and the unit functioning efficiently. Cleaning it with natural cleaners like lemon or vinegar can prevent the buildup of residue and keep it smelling fresh.
Signs Your Garbage Disposal Needs Professional Attention
Even with regular maintenance, there might be times when your garbage disposal requires professional help. Here are some signs that indicate it’s time to call a plumber:
- Persistent Odors: If bad smells persist despite regular cleaning, there might be trapped food particles or buildup inside the unit that requires professional cleaning.
- Frequent Clogs: Regular clogs can indicate a more serious issue with your plumbing that needs to be addressed by a professional.
- Unusual Noises: Loud or unusual noises can signify that something is wrong with the disposal’s motor or blades.
- Leaks: Water leaking from the disposal unit or the pipes connected to it can cause significant damage and should be repaired immediately.
By following these do’s and don’ts, you can ensure your garbage disposal remains a helpful kitchen appliance rather than a source of frustration. Proper care and maintenance are key to keeping it running smoothly and efficiently.
However, if you encounter persistent issues or notice any signs of trouble, don’t hesitate to contact Downey Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning. Our experienced plumbers can provide expert service and ensure your garbage disposal and overall plumbing system are in top condition.
Your home deserves the best care. Call us today at 562-646-1221 to schedule an appointment and keep your kitchen running smoothly.
