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A garbage disposal is a useful tool for any kitchen, allowing you to grind up food scraps. If you have a septic system, though, you must take extra care to prevent clogs and mechanical breakdowns. For proper waste disposal and a healthy septic system, keep these do’s and don’ts in mind. 

Do:

Pump the septic tank frequently.

All the pipes in your home lead to the septic tank. If you use your garbage disposal daily, that waste goes into the tank along with what comes from the rest of your home. Accumulated waste reduces tank capacity and efficiency. You’ll need more frequent tank pumping to keep your waste disposal system working as it should.

Throw large scraps in the trash.

waste disposalA garbage disposal is not a trash can. It should only be used to grind small bits of food waste left behind after washing the dishes. Scrape plates into the garbage before cleaning them.

Also, consider establishing a compost bin where you can dispose of foods that don't belong in the garbage disposal. 

Use the disposal properly.

Always run cold water while grinding food in a garbage disposal to solidify any grease or oils. They’ll get ground up, so they won't cause a clog. Keep the water running for 15 seconds after the grinding is complete to wash away all remnants. 

Don’t:

Put inappropriate items in the disposal. 

Garbage disposals are for food scraps, but not everything is safe. Never put rice, pasta, fibrous vegetables like celery or asparagus, eggshells, coffee grounds, potato peels, bones, or avocado pits in the disposal. Non-food items like dental floss and pull tabs and medication should also never go in the garbage disposal. 

Overfill the disposal.

When putting food in the disposal, make sure it’s as small as possible. Otherwise, you risk a clog or other damage to the disposal. The food scraps will also interfere with the septic system.

Ignore maintenance. 

Keeping your garbage disposal clean and in good working condition can prevent problems. After each use, flush the disposal with cold water and a drop of dish soap. To keep the grinders sharp and reduce odors, clean them weekly. Use either ice cubes and a cup of rock salt or some citrus peels to keep it fresh. 

 

For professional septic service to keep your waste disposal system in working order, turn to First Quality Environmental. Their licensed team specializes in septic system service and has served Oahu and the rest of the Hawaiian Islands since 1991. Call (808) 259-0100 to schedule an appointment today, or visit their website to learn more about their services.

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