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Garbage disposals are helpful for breaking down larger food particles before they enter your septic system. They prevent you from having to throw food in the trash, where it produces foul odors, and will keep your kitchen smelling fresh. However, improper usage can result in clogs, breakdowns, and the need for appliance repairs. Here are some mistakes to avoid when using your garbage disposal.

What You Shouldn’t Do When Using Your Garbage Disposal

1. Improper Cleaning

If you notice unpleasant smells from your garbage disposal, do not put bleach or harsh cleaning products down the drain, as they can eat through the pipes and cause leaks. Add a couple of tablespoons of baking soda along with fresh citrus slices and a handful of ice cubes before turning on the disposal. This will remove stuck food particles and freshen up the drain without damaging your plumbing. 

2. Running It Out of Sequence

appliance repairPrevent clogs and mechanical problems by using the following sequence to operate your garbage disposal. Turn on the water, then run the disposal. Empty food into the drain a little bit at a time.

Keep the disposal running until you see no food in the drain. Shut off the disposal and allow water to continue flowing for another 15 seconds to flush out the remaining residue. 

3. Flushing With Hot Water

Don’t use hot water to flush food down your garbage disposal, as it liquefies oils and fats that congeal in your pipes once they cool, which creates clogs. Use cool water so that these substances remain hard and break down in the disposal before moving through your plumbing. 

4. Putting the Wrong Items Down the Drain

Certain vegetables, such as potato peelings, celery, and asparagus, have tough fibers that get tangled in garbage disposal blades and burn out the motor. Meat bones, too, are too hard for disposal blades to break down and will instead dull or damage them. Compost these items, or throw them in the trash. 

 

Even with careful use, garbage disposals may malfunction. When you need appliance repairs, call Complete Appliance Service. They also provide washer, dryer, stove, oven, dishwasher, and refrigerator repairs to clients in Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. Call (513) 661-3708 to get an estimate on appliance repairs, and visit the website to learn more about how to receive a free service call from this Kenmore® and Maytag® repairman. 

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