We all love garbage disposals because they help us rid unwanted food that we prefer not to dump into a garbage pail. We want to help our valued customers understand that it is not practical to put anything and everything down the garbage disposal. Knowing what to do and what not to do will help keep your garbage disposal working and extend its lifespan.
IMPORTANT DOs FOR GARBAGE DISPOSALS
Run your garbage disposal regularly so as to avoid rust and varied obstructions.
- Run cold water when your disposal is grinding your food waste to help break up oil or grease that is mixed with the food waste.
- Clean your garbage disposal by pouring dish detergent down the disposal, turn the cold water on and start the disposal up. Let it run for about a minute to minimize food odors.
- For a more in-depth cleaning, put baking soda in the disposal overnight and then pour vinegar into it in the morning.
- Grind citrus peels in your disposal to give it a clean, fresh smell.
- Only put vegetables, fruits and small food waste pieces in your disposal.
- Always cover your disposal when not in use to avoid items falling into it.
- Be sure to drop food waste into the disposal one piece at a time and not extensive amounts.
- Drop small fish or chicken bones into the disposal from time to time to help sharpen the blades.
- If your disposal presents with slow drainage or even stops, it’s time to check and see if the grinder teeth have been damaged.
ABSOLUTE DON’Ts FOR GARBAGE DISPOSALS
- Don’t put egg shells into the disposal because they can clog the pipes.
- Never put items that are not food into your disposal since it can severely damage it.
- Do not put fibrous foods such as celery and corn shucks into the disposal because they can wrap around the teeth and cause it to stop working.
- Since rice and pasta expand with water, you should not put them in the disposal because they can ultimately clog the traps.
- Never try grinding food pits in your disposal because they can cause damage.
- Avoid putting large pieces of food into the disposal.
- Since coffee grinds can quickly build up and create a messy drain, avoid putting them in the disposal.
- Never turn the water off when your garbage disposal is running.
- Do not ever try cleaning your disposal with bleach or any other type of harsh chemicals.
The certified plumbers and technicians here at Steve Mull Plumbing hope you have found these practical do’s and don’t for garbage disposals useful. With that said, if you find yourself in need of disposal repairs or any other type of plumbing needs in your home, be sure to reach out to the dedicated team here at Steve Mull Plumbing.
Our team of professionals is trained and equipped to handle your every plumbing problem and is steadfast in our efforts to provide our clients with the highest quality plumbing products and services this side of Lebanon. We are committed to meeting the needs of all our clients and take pride in our affordable prices and attractive service timelines.
From garbage disposal problems, slow flushing toilets and multiple clogged drains, to leaky faucets, plumbing installs and water heaters, we are the team for you. Simply give a shout out to one of our staff today and schedule your plumbing appointment. Fall has arrived and winter right around the corner, so it may be time for you to schedule a residential plumbing inspection as well. For more information about our services and our products, contact our team today!