Garbage disposals are a great convenience in our homes for disposing of food scraps. They make cleaning up after meals a breeze and keep our kitchen smelling fresh. However, it's important to remember that not everything can go down the disposal. Putting the wrong things down could damage the disposal and cause clogs, leading to costly plumbing repairs. In this blog post, we'll go over what not to put down your garbage disposal and why.
Grease, oil, and fat
One of the biggest culprits of garbage disposal problems is grease, oil, and fat. When these substances cool, they solidify and can coat the insides of your pipes, eventually leading to clogs. Instead of pouring them down the drain, pour liquid fats and oils into a jar or container and properly dispose of them in the trash.
Bones
Although garbage disposals are designed to handle small food scraps, they are not equipped to handle bones. Bones are too hard and can damage or break the blades within the disposal. It's best to dispose of bones in the trash or compost them if possible.
Fibrous vegetables and fruits
Fibrous foods such as celery, corn husks, and banana peels should not be put down the garbage disposal. These foods can wrap around the blades of the disposal and cause it to malfunction. Instead, toss them in the trash or compost them.
Pasta and rice
Cooked or uncooked pasta and rice might seem harmless, but they can cause major problems in your plumbing. These foods expand when they come in contact with water, which can cause clogs within your pipes. It's best to avoid putting them down the disposal altogether.
Eggshells
Contrary to popular belief, eggshells should not be put down the garbage disposal. The shells can create small, sharp pieces that can get stuck within the pipes and cause clogs. Disposing of them in the trash or composting them is a better option.
Conclusion
Maintaining a functioning garbage disposal is important to keeping your kitchen clean and smelling fresh. However, it's important to remember that not everything can go down the disposal. Remember, avoid putting grease, oil, and fat, bones, fibrous vegetables and fruits, pasta and rice, and eggshells down your garbage disposal to prevent costly plumbing repairs. If you do experience any issues with your disposal, be sure to contact a plumber to get it fixed.