Garbage Disposal Maintenance 101

Maintaining a well-functioning garbage disposal might not be at the top of your priorities, but it definitely should make it to the list. Understanding the ins and outs of garbage disposal maintenance can extend its lifespan and keep your kitchen running smoothly. This simple guide from your trusted drain cleaning company contains practical tips and crucial pitfalls to ensure your garbage disposal stays in top-notch condition, effortlessly handling whatever culinary remnants you throw its way.

Don’t Overload

Your garbage disposal is a powerful appliance, but it’s not invincible. Avoid overloading it with large amounts of food waste at once. Instead, feed it gradually to prevent jams and strain on the motor.

Use Cold Water

When operating your garbage disposal, always run cold water. Cold water helps solidify grease and fats, making it easier for the disposal to chop them up so you don’t end up with a clogged drain. Plus, it keeps the motor cool during operation, extending its lifespan.

Keep it Clean

Regular cleaning is key to maintaining a healthy garbage disposal. Pour a mixture of ice cubes and rock salt down the disposal and run it with cold water to clean the blades and remove debris buildup. You can also freshen it up by grinding citrus peels or baking soda and vinegar. The good news is that Rockwater Plumbing offers drain cleaning in Mansfield, TX and surrounding areas.

Grind Properly

Only dispose of biodegradable food waste in your garbage disposal. Avoid putting fibrous or hard materials like bones, fruit pits, coffee grounds, and pasta down the drain, as they can dull the blades or cause clogs.

Practice Caution

Always use caution when operating your garbage disposal. Avoid sticking your hand or foreign objects into the disposal while it’s running, and never pour chemicals like bleach or drain cleaners down the drain, as they can damage the disposal and pipes. Do not attempt DIY drain snaking as that might aggravate the clog and damage the pipes.

Skip the Fibrous Foods

Fibrous foods like celery, corn husks, and onion skins can tangle around the disposal blades and cause jams. Avoid putting these items down the disposal and dispose of them in the trash or compost instead.

Create a Routine

Never underestimate the power of professional routine drain cleaning services. Implement this practice along with the other maintenance tips for fully functional garbage disposal system.

Say No to Grease

Avoid pouring grease, oils, and fats down the disposal and opt for alternative disposal methods, such as storing them in a container and disposing of them in the trash.

Keep Hard Objects Out

Hard objects like bones, fruit pits, and seafood shells can damage the blades of your garbage disposal and lead to costly repairs. Dispose of these items in the trash or compost bin instead of risking damage to your disposal.

Ready to take the next step in maintaining a healthy drain system? Contact Rockwater Plumbing to schedule a service appointment.