Garbage disposals are a staple in many kitchens because they make cleaning up food waste quick and easy. You probably don’t give garbage disposal much thought until it starts acting up.
A clog, jam, or strange noise can quickly remind you why understanding how it works and how to maintain it is worth your time. Even though you may use yours often, you probably don’t think twice about it. If you’ve ever dealt with a clog or strange noise, you know how important it is to understand how your disposal works.
In this blog, we’ll cover what you shouldn’t put down your garbage disposal, how to keep it running efficiently, and signs that you may need your garbage disposal repaired or replaced.
Items you can not put down your garbage disposal
While throwing all your food scraps down the garbage disposal may be easy, some items can cause serious issues. You should think twice about what you’re putting down the drain.
Hard food scraps can dull or damage the blades of the disposal. Some examples of these items would be:
- Hard shells from clams, crabs, and lobsters
- Animal bones from chickens, fish, or beef
Starchy grains are also bad for your disposal system. Some foods will expand as they absorb more water down the drain. Over time, it can cause clogs and blockages in your pipes. Some foods to avoid would be:
- Rice
- Pasta
- Potato peels
Stringy and fibrous vegetables may break apart and wrap themselves around your disposal blades and can cause clogs and blockages. Some examples would be:
- Corn husks
- Celery stalks
- Asparagus
- Onion skins
Fats and oils solidify after they’ve cooled down completely. If you pour them down your drain, you risk clogs and blockages. Some examples of oils and fats would be:
- Any type of cooking oils
- Butter
- Bacon grease and lard
Being mindful of the foods you’re putting down the drain can save you from costly repairs or major plumbing problems.
Simple maintenance can keep your disposal running efficiently
Regularly cleaning your garbage disposal and routine garbage disposal maintenance can extend its lifespan and prevent future problems.
Running cold water while you dump food scraps down the drain will help the waste move more easily and prevent clogs and blockages.
Additionally, making it a habit to clean your garbage disposal about once a month will also help.
A simple and effective way to do this is by using common household items like baking soda, vinegar, ice cubes, and a lemon peel.
Start by running cold water, then pour one cup of baking soda into the disposal, followed by one cup of vinegar. Allow the mixture to sit for about ten minutes as it fizzes and works to break down any remnants of food debris.
Afterward, flush the disposal with hot water to rinse everything away. You can also add a handful of ice cubes while running cold water to help loosen up stuck-on food particles and sharpen the blades. Add a lemon peel to help eliminate odors after cleaning the disposal.
A little bit of routine maintenance now will save you from bigger headaches down the road.
Signs you may need a repair or replacement
If you have a garbage disposal, knowing the warning signs of repair or replacement can help you catch problems early on. Being aware of the signs you may need a repair or replacement is crucial to detecting issues early.
Some of the most common signs include:
- Frequent clogs and blockages
- Unusual sounds or odors
- Leaks
Clogs are common and usually can be resolved easily. However, when clogs become persistent and turn into major blockages, it’s important to call a professional plumber like Black Diamond Plumbing and Mechanical to take a look at the issue. Frequent clogs and slow drainage may be a sign that there’s a mechanical problem.
If you notice your garbage disposal is continuously making unusual rattling or grinding noises, there could be an underlying problem that needs to be addressed. A licensed plumber can take a look at the motor or see if there’s an obstruction.
Persistent odors can be a sign of trapped food particles or bacterial buildup. If at-home remedies do not resolve the problem, a plumber can treat the issue.
Leaks in your garbage disposal may be due to wear and tear, cracks, or a loose connection. Any leaks can potentially turn into a major plumbing problem, so it’s best to have it inspected by a professional.
With early detection, these issues can be resolved quickly with a repair or replacement.
Call Black Diamond Plumbing and Mechanical for all of your garbage disposal problems
We know how frustrating it can be when garbage disposal issues interfere with your day-to-day routine. With over 25 years of experience, our licensed and professional plumbing experts are here to help diagnose any problems and propose long-lasting solutions, so you can get back to your routine.
With 24-hour emergency services, we’re there when you need us. So call us today at 815-444-0979 to request an appointment.