If you’re a new homeowner, you already have enough things to worry about—electrical, air conditioning, and plumbing repairs, to name a few—so the last thing you should worry about is unnecessary garbage disposal repairs. If you’ve never owned a garbage disposal before, follow these simple tips to avoid problems that escalate into costly repairs.

Do: 

Read the manufacturer’s instructions.

All appliances come with an instruction manual that details the proper use, cleaning, and repair of those models. Your garbage disposal’s instructions will tell you how to use it without disrupting your plumbing system or causing harm to users.

Have regular plumbing inspections.

Garbage disposals are connected to your plumbing system. Improper use or a failure in the appliance can inadvertently lead to plumbing repairs, or a problem with your plumbing can impact your appliance. A licensed plumber can inspect and service your entire system to help keep it working error-free.

Be careful how you clean.

Harsh cleaning chemicals can cause your garbage disposal and plumbing to prematurely deteriorate. Use a baking soda and vinegar mixture to flush out debris and then toss lemons into the disposal to freshen up the scent. 

Don’t:

Never put your hand into the unit.

Even if the garbage disposal is turned off, it’s not safe to put your hand in it to retrieve items. If a valuable falls into the unit by accident, turn it off, unplug it, and use tongs to retrieve the object.

Don’t pour some items into the disposal.

Some items, such as grease and oil, should never be put into a garbage disposal unit. They can build up over time, cause parts to stop functioning, and clog your pipes.

Don’t use hot water.

Cold water helps fats thicken so they can be ground up and disposed of. Hot water causes fats to turn into grease and clog your plumbing system. Use cold water when you’re running the disposal to avoid plumbing repairs.

 

If you need a garbage disposal installed or repaired, Dependable Air Conditioning in Russellville, AR, is more than a heating and cooling service. Their licensed contractors are also experienced in plumbing repairs and appliance installation. Call (479) 968-5555 for an estimate or visit them online today for more information.