Dos And Don’ts For Your Garbage Disposal

Garbage disposals make cleanup easier and help reduce food waste in your trash. However, improper use can lead to clogs, odors, and costly repairs—especially after heavy kitchen use during holidays or family gatherings. At Niebuhr Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning, we want to help you avoid common disposal pitfalls with this handy guide to garbage disposal dos and don’ts. Follow these tips to keep your disposal running smoothly all year long.

Garbage Disposal Dos

Using your garbage disposal correctly can help extend its lifespan and prevent costly plumbing issues. Here are the best practices for efficient and safe disposal use:

1. Run Cold Water While Operating

Always run cold water while using your garbage disposal. Cold water solidifies grease and fats, allowing them to be chopped up and flushed through your pipes instead of sticking to them. Let the water run for a few seconds after turning off the disposal to clear any remaining debris.

2. Feed Food Gradually

Avoid overloading your disposal by feeding food waste gradually. Tossing in too much at once can overwhelm the blades and motor, leading to clogs and inefficient grinding.

3. Clean Your Disposal Regularly

Keep your garbage disposal clean to prevent odors and buildup:

●      Use a mix of baking soda and vinegar to break down grime. Let it fizz for a few minutes before rinsing with cold water.

●      Grind small citrus peels (like lemon or orange) to eliminate odors and freshen up your kitchen naturally.

4. Cut Large Items Into Smaller Pieces

Before tossing food into the disposal, cut large items into smaller pieces. This prevents the motor from being overworked and ensures smoother operation.

5. Use Ice Cubes

Grinding ice cubes can sharpen the blades and help clean the interior of your garbage disposal. Do this once a month to maintain its efficiency.

Garbage Disposal Don’ts

Avoiding certain items and habits is key to preventing clogs and damage to your disposal. Here’s what not to do:

1. Don’t Put Grease, Oil, or Fat Down the Disposal

While it’s tempting to pour grease or oil down the sink, this is a recipe for disaster. Grease solidifies in pipes, creating blockages that can lead to major plumbing issues. Instead, dispose of grease in a sealed container in the trash.

2. Don’t Grind Fibrous Foods

Fibrous foods like celery, asparagus, corn husks, and artichokes can tangle the blades and clog the disposal. These items are better suited for your compost bin.

3. Don’t Toss Starchy Foods

Starchy foods like potato peels, rice, and pasta can expand when exposed to water, forming a sticky paste that can clog your disposal and pipes. Dispose of these items in the trash instead.

4. Don’t Grind Non-Food Items

Your garbage disposal is designed for food waste only. Never attempt to grind items like:

• Plastic
• Metal
• Paper
• Glass

These materials can damage the disposal’s blades and motor.

5. Don’t Use Hot Water While Grinding

Hot water may seem like a good idea, but it can melt grease and fats, causing them to coat the blades and pipes. Stick to cold water to keep your disposal functioning properly.

Signs Your Garbage Disposal Needs Attention

Even with proper use, your garbage disposal may occasionally need maintenance. Watch for these warning signs that something may be wrong:

• Frequent Clogs: If your disposal clogs often, it may indicate dull blades or a buildup of debris.
• Unusual Noises: Grinding, rattling, or humming sounds can indicate a jammed or damaged disposal.
• Foul Odors: Persistent odors may mean that food particles are trapped and need to be cleaned out.
• Leaks: Water pooling under your sink may indicate a worn-out seal or connection.

If you notice any of these issues, contact a professional plumber like Niebuhr to diagnose and fix the problem.

Conclusion

By following these garbage disposal dos and don’ts, you can avoid clogs, odors, and costly repairs while keeping your kitchen running smoothly.

If your garbage disposal is acting up or it’s time for an upgrade, Niebuhr Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning is here to help. Serving La Crosse, Onalaska, Holmen, and surrounding areas, we’re your trusted partner for all plumbing needs.