The Do’s and Don’ts of Using Your Garbage Disposal

A garbage disposal can be a lifesaver in the kitchen, helping to efficiently dispose of food waste. But if used incorrectly, it can lead to clogs, odors, and costly repairs. By following a few simple guidelines, you can keep your garbage disposal functioning properly for years to come. Here are the essential do’s and don’ts of using your garbage disposal.

Do Run Cold Water With Your Garbage Disposal

One of the most important practices when using your disposal is to always run cold water during operation. Cold water helps solidify greases and oils, allowing them to be broken down more effectively and flushed away. Hot water may liquefy grease, which then solidifies further down the pipes, leading to blockages.

Don’t Put Fat, Oil, or Grease Down the Disposal

It’s tempting to pour cooking grease or oil down the sink, but your garbage disposal isn’t designed to handle these materials. Fat, oil, and grease can build up in your pipes over time, causing stubborn clogs and damaging your plumbing system. Instead, dispose of these substances in a sealed container and throw them in the trash.

Do Cut Large Food Items Into Smaller Pieces

Your garbage disposal isn’t meant to handle large quantities of food waste at once. To prevent straining the motor or jamming the blades, cut bigger food items into smaller pieces before feeding them into the disposal. Doing this ensures that your disposal operates efficiently and prevents unnecessary wear and tear.

Don’t Grind Hard or Fibrous Materials

Certain materials can damage your garbage disposal or cause clogs. Avoid grinding hard items like bones, fruit pits, or shells, as they can dull your disposal’s blades. Likewise, fibrous vegetables like celery, corn husks, or asparagus stalks can wrap around the blades and lead to malfunctions. Stick to softer food waste to avoid damaging your system.

Do Keep Your Garbage Disposal Clean

Regular cleaning can help keep your garbage disposal in excellent condition and prevent unpleasant odors. A simple way to clean your disposal is by grinding small ice cubes and salt in it, which helps remove debris from the blades. For a fresh scent, grind citrus peels such as lemon or orange as part of your cleaning routine.

Don’t Overload Your Disposal

It’s important to feed waste into your garbage disposal gradually. Overloading the system not only strains the motor but can also prevent scraps from being properly broken down. To avoid this, add small amounts of food at a time and allow the disposal to process fully before adding more.

Do Know When to Call the Professionals

If your garbage disposal is making unusual noises, frequently clogging, or struggling to break down waste, it may be time to seek professional help. Attempting to fix complex issues on your own can lead to more extensive damage, so it’s best to leave it in the hands of experienced plumbers.

Why Contact Burton's Plumbing & Heating?

Using your garbage disposal the right way can save you time, money, and frustration, but even with the best practices, issues can arise. At Burton's Plumbing & Heating, we specialize in garbage disposal repairs and maintenance to ensure your system runs smoothly. Whether it’s a clogged unit, strange noises, or anything in between, our expert team is ready to help.

Don’t wait for a small problem to turn into a costly repair. Contact Burton's Plumbing & Heating today to schedule professional plumbing services. We’re here to keep your kitchen running efficiently and your home in top shape. Give us a call or visit our website to get started!