One of the simplest ways to prevent plumbing and septic tank problems is to change your kitchen habits, particularly the way you use your garbage disposal. While this is a convenient way to get rid of food waste, it can also lead to clogs and other damage if used incorrectly. Here are a few items which should never go down your disposal.

What Items Should You Keep Away From the Garbage Disposal?

1. Grease

Grease and fat from cooking may be liquid while they’re warm, but when they cool, they quickly solidify. Grease can easily clog a garbage disposal or pipe, as well as fill up your septic tank so that you’ll need pumping sooner. Let the grease cool and put it in the trash instead to avoid septic tank problems.

2. Coffee Grounds

Because they are made of such tiny particles, coffee grounds tend to get trapped in your garbage disposal. Their strong smell makes this especially unpleasant. Like many other materials, they can clump together to form a clog.

3. Eggshells

In addition to breaking into small fragments, eggshells are especially sticky and can cling to the inside of the garbage disposal and the sides of pipes. This creates snags which can catch other materials and cause a major pipe buildup.

4. Bones

Your garbage disposal is tough, but bones are often tougher. They can dull the blades and jam the motor, as well as make a large amount of noise. A few small fish bones may be all right on occasion, but throw chicken, beef, and pork bones in the trash.

5. Pasta & Rice

The problem with these foods is that they are highly absorbent. The longer they sit in water, the larger they swell. This can cause plumbing and septic tank problems, including stubborn, messy clogs.

 

If you have septic tank problems from flushing the wrong foods, B's Pumping Service in Lakeville, MN, can help. As Dakota County’s septic repair experts and a licensed, bonded, and insured provider, they’ll get your system running smoothly again, as well as provide basic pumping and maintenance services. To schedule an inspection, call (952) 469-2573, or visit them online to learn more about their services.