Keep Your Kitchen Running Smoothly
Your garbage disposal is an unsung hero in the kitchen, quietly handling food waste day after day. But like any hardworking appliance, it needs proper care to function at its best. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about maintaining your garbage disposal—from daily habits to troubleshooting common issues.
1. Daily Best Practices
Run cold water: Always run cold water before, during, and after using your disposal.
Grind small amounts: Feed waste gradually to prevent overloading.
Avoid non-food items: Keep utensils, paper, and other non-food items away from the disposal.
2. What to Avoid
Fibrous foods: Celery, corn husks, and onion skins can tangle the blades.
Hard items: Bones, fruit pits, and shells can damage the unit.
Grease and oil: These can accumulate and cause clogs.
Expandable foods: Rice, pasta, and coffee grounds can swell and cause blockages.
3. Regular Cleaning Routine
Ice cube method: Grind ice cubes to scrub the blades clean.
Citrus freshener: Use lemon or orange peels to deodorize.
Baking soda and vinegar: Pour 1/2 cup baking soda followed by 1/2 cup vinegar, let sit for 15 minutes, then flush with hot water.
4. Monthly Maintenance
Check for leaks: Inspect under the sink for any signs of moisture.
Tighten connections: Ensure all fittings are secure.
Clean the baffle: Remove and clean the rubber baffle at the drain opening.
5. Troubleshooting Common Issues
Disposal won’t turn on: Check if it’s plugged in or if the circuit breaker has tripped.
Humming but not grinding: Turn off the power and check for obstructions.
Slow draining: This could indicate a clog in the disposal or pipes.
Strange noises: Stop use immediately and check for foreign objects.
6. When to Call a Professional
Persistent clogs or jams
Electrical issues
Leaks that you can’t resolve
Foul odors that won’t go away
7. Extending the Life of Your Disposal
Use it regularly to prevent rust and corrosion.
Keep it clean and dry when not in use.
Consider upgrading to a more powerful model if you frequently deal with tough food waste.
A well-maintained garbage disposal can last for years, saving you time and hassle in the kitchen. By following these tips and being mindful of what goes down your drain, you’ll keep your disposal running smoothly and avoid costly repairs. Remember, if you’re ever unsure about a problem with your garbage disposal or need professional assistance, don’t hesitate to contact Wicker Plumbing. Our experienced team is always ready to help with any plumbing needs in Royse City, Rockwall, Rowlett, and surrounding areas.
Call Wicker Plumbing at 469-661-5341 for expert garbage disposal services and maintenance.
New customers enjoy a 15% discount on their first service!
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