Garbage disposals are helpful appliances in the kitchen, providing a quick and convenient way to manage food waste. With a flip of a switch, scraps are ground up and flushed safely down the drain. However, make no mistake—your garbage disposal is not a trash can. Improper use can lead to issues like clogs, foul odors, and inconveniences. It’s important to take good care of your garbage disposal to extend its lifespan. If you notice an issue with this appliance, get in touch with a trusted plumbing repair service for repairs.
Learn how to take care of your garbage disposal so you can keep the appliance in good working order for years. Proper garbage disposal care not only gives you peace of mind, but it also saves you money in the long run. When you need a professional plumber in Columbia, SC to inspect your garbage disposal, trust the pros at Mr. Rooter Plumbing.
Use Cold Water When Running the Disposal
Always use a steady stream of cold water when operating your garbage disposal. Cold water helps solidify any grease or fats so they can be chopped up and flushed away properly. Hot water, on the other hand, may melt fats and allow them to coat the inside of your pipes.
Run the Disposal Regularly
Even if you don’t use your garbage disposal every day, it’s a good idea to run it occasionally. Running the disposal with cold water and a small amount of food waste helps prevent rust, corrosion, and the buildup of grime or residue. It also keeps the internal parts from locking up due to disuse.
Cut Waste Into Smaller Pieces
Large chunks of food can strain the disposal motor and blades. To prevent unnecessary wear and tear, break food into smaller pieces before tossing them in. Feed the waste into the unit slowly rather than all at once to avoid overwhelming the system.
Avoid Putting Problematic Foods Down the Disposal
Avoid disposing of fibrous foods like celery, corn husks, and onion skins, as they can tangle around the blades. Also steer clear of starchy items like potato peels, pasta, and rice, which can swell and clog the drain. Bones, pits, shells, coffee grounds, and eggshells can also damage or clog the unit. When in doubt, toss it in the trash or compost bin instead.
Keep It Clean
To keep your disposal smelling fresh and running well, give it a regular clean. You can grind up ice cubes to knock debris off the blades and walls, then rinse with cold water. For deodorizing, try grinding citrus peels like lemon or orange. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, as they can corrode the internal parts. Instead, pour a mixture of baking soda and vinegar into the disposal, let it fizz for a few minutes, and rinse it down with hot water to break up buildup and eliminate odors.
Don’t Use It as a Trash Can
While it’s tempting to toss anything and everything into the disposal, remember that it’s designed for light food scraps, not a substitute for a trash bin. Non-food items like paper towels, plastic, metal, and even excessive food waste can cause serious damage.
Turn It Off Properly
After grinding up waste, keep the cold water running for 10–15 seconds to help flush all the particles through the drain. This ensures nothing is left behind that could rot or clog the system.
Reach Out to Mr. Rooter Plumbing for Garbage Disposal Installation and Repair
Now that you know how to maintain your garbage disposal, you should be able to keep your appliance in good working condition. If you’re looking for professional plumbers offering garbage disposal services, trust the pros at Mr. Rooter Plumbing. Whether you need garbage disposal installation or quick repairs, our knowledgeable plumbers are ready to help. We always put quality and customer satisfaction first. For assistance, schedule an inspection with us today.
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