Tips to Protect the Garbage Disposal
As the holiday season approaches, household waste tends to increase, putting additional strain on the garbage disposal. To ensure the disposal continues functioning efficiently and effectively, taking good care of it during this time is essential.
In this article, local experts will provide valuable tips on what not to put down the disposal, the importance of running water when the garbage disposal is operating, and when to trust a professional for garbage disposal services.
Food Waste to Avoid Putting Down the Disposal and Drains
Not all food waste is suitable for garbage disposal. Indeed, many food scraps are recommended to be discarded in the trash. Certain items can damage the blades, clog drains, or even harm the plumbing system.
Never put the following food waste down the disposal:
- Fats, oils, and grease (FOG) can solidify in pipes, causing blockages and backups
- Bones, shells, and pits that damage the blades or get stuck in the disposal
- Coffee grounds that can accumulate in P traps and clog drains
- Starchy foods like potato peels and rice that can stick to pipes and cause buildup
Always keep in mind that the garbage disposal is only supposed to be used to grind up food that is rinsed from dishes. Scrape them into the trashcan before rinsing to ensure the garbage disposal isn’t overwhelmed.
Run Water While Operating the Garbage Disposal
Running water is crucial to keep the garbage disposal in good condition. When the disposal is in use, run cold water through the system to:
- Keep the blades clean and prevent food from sticking to them
- Prevent clogs by flushing out food particles and debris
- Solidify incidental grease so that it won’t cling to pipes
- Flush food particles before they cling to the blades and cause them to rattle out of balance
It's important not to overload the disposal by putting too many things down at once. This can cause the blades to jam or break, leading to costly repairs. Running water down the drain during operation is the easiest way to do this.
If the garbage disposal humming is a problem, toss a few ice cubes into the drain. The abrasive nature of the ice can dislodge debris while the cold water flushes it through the grinding plate and down the drain.
Use Professionals for Garbage Disposal Installation and Repair
While regular maintenance can go a long way in keeping the disposal running smoothly, some tasks are best left to the professionals. Repairs, installation, and replacement require specialized knowledge and equipment to ensure safety and prevent additional issues.
Watch out for signs of garbage disposal problems, such as:
- Leaks or unusual noises
- Slow draining or clogs
- Failure to turn on or function properly
- Tripped garbage disposal reset button
If any of these issues are noticed, it's time to call a licensed plumber to diagnose and fix the problem.
By following these tips, owners can ensure their garbage disposal continues to operate efficiently and effectively, even during the busiest times of the year.
About Zing Plumbing
Zing Plumbing handles garbage disposal repairs, installation, and a full line of plumbing services. They find modern solutions for commercial and residential plumbing problems. Call today for a clean and tidy plumbing service in Tucson, AZ.
