Tips for Keeping Your Garbage Disposal Running Properly

  • Post category:Pipe Talk

Most people would agree that garbage disposals can be a major lifesaver in the kitchen, as they make disposing of messy food easy and convenient. However, to run efficiently, disposals require a certain degree of ongoing maintenance and attention. Take it from our team of experts at our offices in Buffalo, garbage disposal maintenance is important. Knowing the do’s and don’ts of running your disposal will keep both your disposal system and plumbing in top shape, eliminating negative effects of wear and tear. Here are some tips for running your garbage disposal properly:

Use plenty of water when running your disposal

When running any garbage disposal, it’s essential to run plenty of cold water while the food is being grinded down. After the food has gone through the disposal, you should also continue running water for about 30 seconds to make sure the particles are completely flushed through the pipes and that no waste has been left behind. Cold water, rather than hot, will be better at breaking down the particles and preventing a build-up of grease or fat. To make sure you’re flushing enough water down the drain, consider filling up your entire sink with water which can be used for washing your dishes before turning on the disposal.

Clean your disposal regularly

Like any appliance, regular cleaning is part of a disposal’s proper maintenance. Because of potential accumulation of particles, cleaning your disposal once a week can clear out the blades and remove any remaining residue. Rather than use cleaners with harsh chemicals that can cause damage, consider natural cleaning substances like baking soda or vinegar. These substances will not only cleanse your disposal, but remove any lingering odors from your drain.

Know what foods to avoid

You can cause major harm to your garbage disposal by putting foods down it that aren’t able to grind or break down easily. Hard or fibrous foods or remnants, such as hard seeds, popcorn kennels, apple seeds and animal bones, are not conducive to being broken down in most disposals. You should also avoid coffee grounds, onion skins, raw meats, egg shells, celery stalks, corn husks, and anything else of an extremely thick or dense consistency. These types of particles are too fibrous to be broken down by the disposal and will end up causing its blades to jam.

Understanding how to properly run your garbage disposal is crucial for keeping your kitchen’s pluming in top condition and eliminating clogs that could have been avoided.  If you’re struggling with plumbing issues, contact our offices in Buffalo. Garbage disposal maintenance and repair  are just a few of the many services that we offer. Get in touch with The Plumber today and learn how we can assist with your plumbing needs.