A garbage disposal is a valuable appliance for kitchens, but one not every homeowner uses correctly. From running it with cold water going, to keeping certain foods out, to requesting routine garbage disposal maintenance, there's plenty of key information you should understand if you own one.
In this brief guide, we'll cover what you need to know about garbage disposals, including proper use and tips to help yours last longer. After reading, contact Roto-Rooter Jackson, TN Plumber for disposal services.
Key Tips for Garbage Disposal Use and Care
You should make sure everyone living in your home understands how garbage disposals work. Getting everyone on the same page of what can and can't go in the disposal and how to run it properly can make a significant difference. Consider the following essential tips for caring for and using your appliance.
Grind Up Food Waste and Scraps
Garbage disposals are good at breaking down food waste and small scraps, but items like potato peels and coffee grounds are too harsh and damaging for your disposal blades. The leftover foods from your meals are acceptable to grind in the disposal, but larger objects should go straight to the trash.
Items To Avoid Putting in Your Garbage Disposal
Thick substances, starches, and strong foods are harder or impossible for your disposal to break down. As a result, you could have a major plumbing problem on your hands if you put them in your garbage disposal. Avoid throwing in the following:
- Banana skins
- Cigarette butts
- Coffee grounds
- Corn husks
- Fibrous foods
- Onion skins
- Potato peels
Keep small items away for your disposal, as they can accidentally fall in and create a big issue if your system is active. However, you can quickly shut it off with the breaker box switch or by flipping the switch underneath.
Turn on Cold Water With Your Disposal
You'll need to run cold water at your disposal every time you use it. Cold water helps bring food scraps and waste down the drain and breaks down solids more easily. Avoid using hot water, as it can turn greases and oils into thick liquids that cause clogs.
Keep Your Garbage Disposal Clean
It's easy to keep up with garbage disposal maintenance and eliminate odors by grinding up ice cubes with vinegar and baking soda. You can also try using rock salt instead of harsh chemicals to clear away the first layer of grime.
You also can keep your kitchen smelling fresh by grinding up citrus peels and warm water. Lemons and limes have strong citric acid, kill bacteria, and can ward off any unpleasant odors.
These natural solutions are much safer than harsh cleaning chemicals.
Call a Plumber for Garbage Disposal Repair and Replacement
When you're experiencing disposal problems, call your local emergency plumber. They can install a new garbage disposal or fix your current one.
Contact Roto-Rooter Jackson, TN for Trusted Garbage Disposal Services Today
Roto-Rooter Jackson, TN is your go-to company for garbage disposal services in Jackson, TN, and the surrounding areas. Call (731) 213-3611 or complete our online form to schedule an appointment.
