Garbage disposals see a lot of usage in the kitchen, grinding up food waste for quick and easy cleanups. With repeated use, these appliances will eventually develop mechanical problems, which might require extensive repairs or new garbage disposal installation. However, knowing what you should and shouldn’t throw down the garbage disposal will help to keep it functioning longer.

Do:

Run cold water frequently.

When grinding food waste, flush your garbage disposal with cold water to prevent clogs from building up inside. Even after switching it off, run the water for at least 30 seconds to wash off any leftovers clinging to the pipes and walls.

Cut larger food chunks into smaller sizes.

Go easy on your garbage disposal by breaking down bulky leftovers into more manageable pieces. Then feed the unit smaller food pieces one at a time instead of shoving them down all at once. This approach will keep the motor from jamming or overheating. 

Keep it clean.

Your disposal will inevitably smell if decaying food matter is stuck somewhere inside. Keep your disposal smelling fresh by running cold water for a few minutes after pouring dishwashing liquid down the drain. You can even grind up small pieces of orange or lemon peel for a citrus smell.

Don’t:

Use toxic chemicals.

When you need to clean, skip the bleach and drain cleaners or you’ll need a new garbage disposal installation soon enough. Harsh chemicals will not only solidify remaining grease, but may also corrode your pipes. Instead, mix a handful of baking soda and half a cup of vinegar and let it sit in the unit before flushing it with cold water.

Pour grease or coffee grounds down the drain.

Grease is a leading culprit for clogged drains since it hardens after cooling. Similarly, coffee grounds and eggshells tend to clump together and stick in drains and pipes. Err on the side of caution by disposing of them in the trash can instead.

Toss high-fiber food waste into the disposal.

Refrain from grinding fibrous food materials like corn husks, artichokes, celery stalks, banana peels, and onion skins since these can coil around the blades and jam them. In the same vein, avoid discarding potato peels, pasta, and rice down the disposal since these items expand and create a starchy paste.

These tips will make your garbage disposal last longer and work more efficiently. But if you need to replace yours now, opt for garbage disposal installation from the professionals at A-1 Budget Plumbing. Based in Honolulu, HI, they’ve provided exceptional services, from drain cleaning to gas line installation, for over 30 years to the island of Oahu. Call (808) 526-3747 or visit their website to schedule an appointment for garbage disposal installation today.