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Your garbage disposal is one of the most convenient appliances in your kitchen. It helps you manage food scraps, reduces odors, and keeps your kitchen clean. But like any appliance, it needs regular care and proper use to stay in good condition. Without the right maintenance, a garbage disposal can clog, jam, or wear out faster than it should.
By following a few simple tips, you can extend the life of your disposal and keep it working efficiently.
Why Proper Care for Your Garbage Disposal Matters
A garbage disposal that isn’t cared for properly can quickly become a source of frustration. Clogs and jams can lead to unpleasant smells, slow drainage, and even costly plumbing repairs. Regular upkeep not only keeps your disposal functioning but also helps protect your plumbing system as a whole.
Do’s and Don’ts of Using Your Garbage Disposal
Do: Run Cold Water While in Use
Always run cold water when operating your disposal. Cold water helps solidify grease and oils, allowing them to be chopped up and washed away instead of sticking to the pipes.
Don’t: Pour Grease or Oil Down the Drain
Cooking grease, oils, and fats can solidify in your pipes, creating stubborn clogs. Dispose of grease in a container and throw it in the trash instead.
Do: Cut Large Items Into Smaller Pieces
While disposals are designed to grind food, large chunks can strain the blades and motor. Cutting items into smaller pieces helps your disposal process them more efficiently.
Don’t: Put Hard or Fibrous Foods in the Disposal
Avoid items like bones, coffee grounds, corn husks, and celery. These materials can damage the blades or wrap around the motor, leading to jams and blockages.
Tips for Keeping Your Garbage Disposal Clean
Flush It Regularly
After each use, let cold water run for a few extra seconds to wash away remaining food particles. This helps prevent buildup inside the unit and in your pipes.
Use Ice Cubes and Citrus for Freshness
Grinding a handful of ice cubes helps clean the blades and dislodge debris. Following that with lemon or orange peels can give your disposal a fresh scent while helping to clean it naturally.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Bleach and chemical drain cleaners can corrode your disposal’s parts and damage pipes. Instead, use mild dish soap and warm water for routine cleaning.
Signs Your Garbage Disposal May Need Attention
Even with proper care, disposals sometimes show signs that professional service is needed. Call a plumber if you notice:
Frequent clogs or jams
Unusual grinding noises
Persistent foul odors that don’t go away with cleaning
Leaks under the sink around the unit
Catching these issues early can prevent bigger problems down the road.
Keep Your Kitchen Running Smoothly
Your garbage disposal is an important tool for keeping your kitchen clean and efficient. By using it correctly and maintaining it regularly, you can avoid unnecessary breakdowns and extend its lifespan. If your garbage disposal is giving you trouble or you’d like a professional inspection, the experts at Mike's Plumbing of Southwest Florida are here to help. Call us today at (239) 208-0274 to schedule service and keep your kitchen running smoothly.