When it comes to kitchen appliances, garbage disposals are incredibly convenient. However, it’s important to use this appliance correctly, or you could be faced with hefty repair bills. Here are a few best practices when using disposals, which will ensure optimum function. 

Do:

Use the appliance correctly.

While the basics are usually the same, different manufacturers have different instructions for their appliances. Be sure to look over these instructions so you’re using the appliance correctly. You should also consult the instructions if you’re experiencing issues and in need of troubleshooting advice. 

Clean with grease-fighting dish soap.

Running dish soap through the disposal on a regular basis will prevent bad smells from forming. It can also help remove food debris when the soap has grease-fighting properties. Pour a bit of soap into the appliance and leave it run for about 10 to 15 seconds for the best results. 

Use cold water when grinding up food.

Cold water hardens food debris in the garbage disposal so it’s easier to grind up. Conversely, hot water may cause debris to become soggy, which could clog up the system and cause the disposal to work twice as hard.

Don’t:

Dispose of large chunks of food. 

No matter how tough your appliance is, it will have a hard time grinding up larger bits of food. Before tossing large chunks, cut them up into small pieces so they can easily be ground up. This will also prevent clogs from forming. 

Use bleach or other harsh chemicals.

Bleach is excellent for disinfecting, but it can really harm your plumbing. Steer clear of any corrosive chemical agents to clean or unclog your disposal, as they could lead the hardware to corrode and break prematurely. Instead, use dish soap to clean hardware and add a few drops of lemon to add a fresh scent.

Pour greases, oils, & fats into the drain.

Greases, oils, and fats should always be tossed in the trash and not the garbage disposal. Over time, these substances will accumulate and harden, which impacts the function of your kitchen appliance. They can also cause drain clogs, which can lead to backups and other plumbing issues. 

 

 

Even with your best efforts, you might find your garbage disposal is no longer operational. In this case, Honest & Fair Appliance Repair is here to help. Serving the Tri-State area for over four decades, customers in Orange County, NY, can rest assured of efficient repairs at reasonable rates. In the event you need a replacement, they also offer appliances from brands you know and trust. Call (845) 782-0460 to schedule a service or visit the website to learn more about the services they offer.