The Ultimate Guide to Garbage Disposal Maintenance

Here at Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we’ve put together garbage disposal maintenance tips to keep the appliance running smoothly and extend its lifespan. If you’re looking for a plumbing repair service specializing in garbage disposals, we are the team to call.

• Know What’s Off Limits

Although your garbage disposal pulverizes food waste into tiny bits with much ease, that doesn’t mean the appliance is invincible. There are some food items that do not belong in the disposal. Some of the items you should never put down a garbage disposal include eggshells, large bones, fibrous foods, starchy foods, and fruit pits. These items can damage the appliance in different ways.

• Run Cold Water During Use

Running cold water while using your garbage disposal may seem counterintuitive, but it’s good for the appliance. You should run cold water before, during, and after using the disposal to solidify grease and soils, giving them a better chance of being chopped up. On the other hand, hot water softens food waste and melts grease, making it more likely to clog the disposal.

• Cut Waste into Small Pieces

Before disposing of food waste in your garbage disposal, it's crucial to cut it into small pieces. This helps the disposal's blades grind the waste more efficiently and prevents clogs. Large pieces of food can get stuck in the disposal's blades or drain, leading to jams or unpleasant odors.

• Regular Deep Cleaning

Clean your garbage disposal once every two weeks to keep odors at bay and keep the appliance working properly. Natural solutions like baking soda, vinegar, and ice cubes can help remove gunk from the components of the appliance and neutralize odors. Sprinkle some baking soda in your garbage disposal, followed by a cup of vinegar. Allow the mixture to sit for about 10-15 minutes before running hot water down the disposal. Another method for cleaning your garbage disposal is to grind ice cubes and some salt in the appliance to get rid of debris. Do not forget to clean the splash guard using a soft-bristled brush and mild soap. If you need help with cleaning the appliance, get in touch with a trusted plumber specializing in garbage disposal services.

• Professional Checkups

One of the reasons garbage disposals break down prematurely is ignoring signs of problems with the unit. It’s important to watch out for signs of trouble and schedule repair service as soon as possible. If you notice signs of garbage disposal trouble, contact a trusted plumbing service for repairs. Some of the signs you need garbage disposal repair include:

• Excessive noise during operation
• Slow or inefficient operation
• Burning smell
• Unpleasant odors
• Grinding or humming noises

Trustworthy Garbage Disposal Services

These garbage disposal maintenance tips will help you keep your disposal in great shape and avoid costly repairs. At Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we are always here to help you with all of your garbage disposal needs. From garbage disposal installation to repair and routine maintenance, we’ve got you covered.