Your kitchen garbage disposal is a convenient appliance that simplifies getting rid of food scraps while preparing and after serving meals. You can keep your garbage disposal running efficiently and extend its lifespan by following simple do’s and don’ts.
Be Careful What You Put in Your Disposal
Many people assume they can put anything into their garbage disposal as long as it seems like it can be chopped up. However, there are essential practices to follow to maintain the smooth operation of your appliance. Before rinsing plates in the sink, scrape any leftovers into the garbage. Your disposal is not designed to break down large quantities of food scraps all at once.
Avoid putting greasy or fatty substances down your disposal, as they can solidify over time, leading to clogs in your pipes. Grease and fat can also coat the disposal’s blades, reducing their effectiveness and causing the motor to strain. Additionally, steer clear of starchy or hard-to-grind foods, such as thick fruit peels, vegetable skins, pasta, and potatoes. These items tend to form a thick paste that can damage the internal mechanisms of your disposal, leading to costly repairs or replacements.
You should also avoid putting hard substances like bones and eggshells in your disposal. Bones are often too tough for the blades and can cause the appliance to jam. Alternatively, eggshells, despite seeming fragile, can break into smaller, sharp pieces that dull the blades over time. Moreover, the membrane inside eggshells can wrap around the disposal’s components, leading to mechanical issues.
Clean Your Disposal Regularly
If you use your garbage disposal frequently, cleaning it once a week is essential to maintain optimal performance. Start by running cold water through the disposal while it’s running for about 30 seconds to help flush out any loose debris.
Next, turn off the water and pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of white vinegar. Let this mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes, allowing it to foam and break down any built-up grime. This method not only helps loosen debris but also neutralizes odors. Afterward, turn the cold water on again while running the disposal to flush out any remaining residue.
For tougher grime, you can use ice cubes and a small amount of rock salt. Run the disposal with the ice and salt for a few seconds, as this helps dislodge any food particles stuck on the blades, sharpening them in the process.
What to Do When Something Gets Lodged
If something gets stuck in your garbage disposal, it’s essential to approach the situation with caution. First and foremost, do not put your hands into the disposal. The blades are sharp and can cause serious injury.
Instead, start by unplugging the unit. If you can see the lodged item, use a long tool, such as salad tongs, to carefully grasp and remove it. After removing the item, check for any unusual sounds or vibrations when you turn the disposal back on.
If the disposal is still not functioning correctly, consider using a hex wrench (often included with the unit) to turn the blades manually. The socket for the hex wrench is located on the bottom of the garbage disposal and is accessible from underneath the sink. Manufacturers include this socket in the design to help homeowners unjam the disposal blades when they become stuck. After inserting the hex wrench, turn it back and forth to clear the blockage. If these steps don’t resolve the issue, it is best to contact a professional plumber for assistance.
Contact Your Local Pros
At Righty Roo Plumbing & Air, we have been serving the residents of Palm Desert, CA since 2018. We are expert plumbers who provide drain cleaning, hydro-jetting, and water filtration services. Additionally, we can help if you have a garbage disposal issue. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for plumbing repair with one of our talented team members.
