Your sink’s garbage disposal can make clean up a breeze. They’re a convenient way to get rid of excess food and quickly tidy up the kitchen. However, if you’re worried about the effectiveness of your garbage disposal and the health of your plumbing system, there are certain foods you should not put down the drain. Below, learn what to avoid putting down your drain to prevent the need for repair. 

Which Foods Cause Clogged Drains?

1. Eggshells

You may have heard that putting eggshells down your garbage disposal will sharpen its blades. However, doing so poses major problems. The membrane in eggshells can get stuck to your garbage disposal blades, weakening their power. Eggshells can also accumulate in your pipes and cause a backup. 

2. Oils & Fats

Oils and grease should never be dumped down the drain. Grease, oils, and fats will build up in your pipes over time and cause a backup. These items should be dumped in a container, allowed to cool, and then thrown in the trash.

3. Starchy Food

Starchy foods such as pasta, potatoes, and rice expand in the garbage disposal after absorbing moisture. They can stick to your blades, causing your motor to burn out. They’re also hard on your plumbing system since they have a tendency to stick to pipes.

4. Fruit Peels

Fruit rinds and peels are incredibly tough on garbage disposals. They are hard to breakdown and get wrapped around the disposal blades. It’s best to toss all fruit peels in the garbage can or compost bin.

5. Flour

When flour and water mix, the solution becomes very sticky, almost like glue. Over time, this substance accumulates in the pipes and coats them. Additional food particles can become trapped in the buildup, as well. If left untreated, you will notice clogged and sluggish drains. 

If you’re currently dealing with a plumbing clog, call the experts at Miller & Humphrey Plumbing & Electric for a quick repair. They’ve been serving the Enterprise, AL, area for over sixty years and provide fast and efficient service. You can visit their website for more information or call them at (334) 347-9212 to schedule an appointment today.