Garbage disposal repair is a hassle for many homeowners, but how can you prevent it? Whether you’re dealing with an irritating backup or a lingering kitchen odor, most problems are preventable, and learning the most common ones will help avoid a phone call to your plumber in the future. With over 30 years of experience, the experts at Waynesboro, VA’s Cox Construction & Plumbing share the primary causes of garbage disposal problems.

3 Common Problems That Lead to Garbage Disposal Repair

1. Using Your Disposal Improperly

Taking proper care of your disposal is the key to avoiding maintenance issues, but many families misuse theirs without even realizing it. Before starting your unit, make sure there’s ample running water to prevent clogs. Drain cleaning is also important, so don’t let waste pile up in your sink. Clean out the larger scraps before running your disposal, as they could easily cause backup issues by running down the same pipe at once. 

2. Grease Buildup

Grease is one of the biggest reasons for garbage disposal issues, resulting in severe pipe backups and odors. Avoid it altogether by ensuring that grease doesn’t have the chance to build up. At room temperature, it naturally thickens, and, if this runs down your disposal, you’ll likely be calling the plumber. Drain greasy foods away from the sink if possible, and if your sink does get coated with grease, drain cleaning will prevent the greasiest segments from washing down and ruining your garbage disposal.

3. Household Objects Falling in Your Drain

Somehow, non-food objects frequently make their way down the drain. Utensils, dish cloths, and paper towels are still a leading cause of garbage disposal repair, getting washed down alongside food and grease to create irritating clogs and backups. Use a sink strainer to prevent unwanted materials from getting washed down your drain, especially if you wash dishes by hand. 

If you’re in need of garbage disposal repair, count on the professionals at Cox Construction & Plumbing. No matter how big or small the issue, these experts will resolve it efficiently, eliminating any hassle. Visit them online for more information, or call (540) 943-8723 to schedule your estimate today.