In many homes, flipping the garbage disposal switch after washing dishes ensures food residue won’t be left in sink drains to rot and cause a terrible stench or clog plumbing equipment. Although the devices can pulverize a wide variety of soft foods, some items you might be tempted to place in the disposal should go in the trash can instead. Here are three surprising foods that could cause major garbage disposal damage.

What 3 Foods Should be Kept Away From Garbage Disposals?

1. Hard Vegetable Stems

If you often prepare raw vegetables at home, never throw stems in the garbage disposal. The nubs are often too tough to cut with a knife, so imagine what they could do to the device’s blades. To prevent denting and warping of mechanical equipment or operational failure, toss stems in the garbage can instead.

2. Fruit Pits, Seeds, & Shells

Because fruit seeds and pits are relatively small, people believe they shouldn’t cause problems for the garbage disposal. Although tiny, seeds and pits are hard like bone. While attempting to grind them, disposal blades could bend, break, or snap. If you are eating pumpkin seeds or nuts, you should discard the shells in the trash too, as they are also dense enough to cause appliance damage.

3. Grease & Oils

Because grease and oils are often still hot after cooking, many people pour them down the garbage disposal. However, the liquids harden as they cool, which could clog the device’s mechanical components and the drain line. The liquids also coat shredding teeth in an oily film, which could make them too dull to finely chop food into smaller particles.

If your garbage disposal is malfunctioning, the professionals at Fast Rooter Plumbing in Honolulu, HI, will give the device a thorough examination to pinpoint the source of the problem and provide the solution. For over 20 years, this family owned company has provided Oahu with plumbing services. You can also trust them to clear clogged sinks, fix broken pipes, and make any other repairs to improve the efficiency of your plumbing system. To schedule a service appointment, call (808) 734-4938. Visit the plumbers online to learn more about how they will care for your system.