Keep Your Garbage Disposal in Tip Top Shape

A garbage disposal is one of the most convenient kitchen appliances, making food waste disposal quick and easy. 

However, like any appliance, it requires regular maintenance and care to keep it functioning efficiently. Without proper upkeep, your garbage disposal can become clogged, jammed, or even break down, leading to costly repairs or replacements. 

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know to keep your garbage disposal in tip-top shape, ensuring it serves you well for years to come.

How Your Garbage Disposal Works

Before diving into maintenance tips, it’s helpful to understand the basic operation of your garbage disposal. 

A garbage disposal grinds up food waste into small particles that can easily pass through your plumbing system. It consists of a motor that powers a set of blades or impellers, which grind the food waste against a grinding ring. The resulting slurry is then flushed through your pipes by water.

While the device is durable, it’s not invincible. Certain types of food waste and improper usage can cause blockages, dull blades, or motor strain, reducing the appliance’s lifespan and efficiency.

Daily Care and Best Practices

To keep your garbage disposal running smoothly, it’s important to adopt some simple daily care habits. These practices will help prevent clogs, reduce wear and tear, and minimize the need for repairs.

1. Run Cold Water While Using the Disposal

Always run cold water before, during, and after using your garbage disposal. The cold water solidifies any grease or fat, preventing it from sticking to the blades or pipes. Let the cold water run for at least 15 seconds after turning off the disposal to flush out any remaining particles.

2. Avoid Overloading the Disposal

Feed the disposal small amounts of food waste at a time. Overloading it can cause the motor to strain and increase the risk of clogs. For large amounts of waste, break it into smaller pieces and feed it gradually.

3. Use the Disposal Regularly

Frequent use of your garbage disposal helps prevent rust and corrosion, keeping the moving parts from seizing up. Even if you don’t have food waste to dispose of, run the disposal with cold water occasionally to keep it in good working order.

4. Cut Large Items Into Smaller Pieces

Avoid feeding large chunks of food waste directly into the disposal. Cut items like fruit rinds, vegetable peels, and other bulky foods into smaller pieces before feeding them into the unit. This reduces the risk of jamming and helps the disposal grind food more efficiently.

What to Avoid Putting in Your Garbage Disposal

While a garbage disposal is a powerful tool, it’s not designed to handle all types of food waste. Certain materials can damage the blades, clog your pipes, or cause unpleasant odors. 

Here’s a list of items you should never put down your garbage disposal:

1. Grease, Oil, and Fat: One of the most common causes of garbage disposal clogs is grease. When poured down the drain, grease can solidify and accumulate, leading to blockages. Instead, pour grease into a container and dispose of it in the trash.
2. Fibrous Foods: Stringy or fibrous foods like celery, corn husks, asparagus, and artichoke leaves can wrap around the disposal’s blades, causing jams. These items should be disposed of in the trash or composted.
3. Starchy Foods: Starchy foods like potatoes, rice, and pasta can expand when exposed to water, leading to a thick, glue-like paste that can clog your pipes. It’s best to dispose of these items in the trash or compost bin.
4. Coffee Grounds: While coffee grounds may seem harmless, they can accumulate in the disposal and pipes, forming a thick sludge that can lead to clogs. Instead, use coffee grounds in your garden as a natural fertilizer or dispose of them in the trash.
5. Eggshells: There’s a common misconception that eggshells help sharpen the blades of a garbage disposal. In reality, the membrane inside the eggshell can wrap around the blades, causing damage. It’s best to dispose of eggshells in the compost.
6. Non-Food Items: Never attempt to dispose of non-food items like plastic, paper, metal, or glass in your garbage disposal. These materials can damage the blades, jam the motor, and cause serious plumbing issues.

Routine Maintenance Tips

In addition to daily care, regular maintenance is essential to keep your garbage disposal in peak condition. 

Here are some routine maintenance tips to follow:

1. Clean the Disposal Regularly

To prevent odors and buildup, clean your garbage disposal regularly. One simple method is to fill the disposal with ice cubes and a handful of coarse salt, then run it with cold water. The ice helps sharpen the blades while the salt scrubs away any residue.

2. Freshen with Citrus

To keep your disposal smelling fresh, grind up citrus peels like lemon, lime, or orange. The natural oils in the citrus will help clean the disposal and leave a pleasant scent.

3. Use Baking Soda and Vinegar

For a deeper clean, pour half a cup of baking soda into the disposal, followed by a cup of vinegar. Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes, then flush it with hot water. The chemical reaction between the baking soda and vinegar will help break down any buildup and disinfect the disposal.

4. Check for Loose Screws and Connections

Periodically check the screws and connections around your garbage disposal to ensure everything is tight and secure. Loose connections can lead to leaks and reduce the efficiency of your disposal.

5. Inspect the Splash Guard

The rubber splash guard at the top of your disposal can accumulate food particles and debris over time. Remove the splash guard and clean it thoroughly with warm, soapy water. This will help prevent odors and keep the disposal functioning properly.

Troubleshooting Common Garbage Disposal Issues

Even with regular care and maintenance, you may encounter occasional issues with your garbage disposal. Here are some common problems and troubleshooting tips:

1. Garbage Disposal Won’t Turn On

If your garbage disposal won’t turn on, then it could be due to a tripped circuit breaker or a reset button. First, check your home’s electrical panel to see if the circuit breaker has been tripped. If the breaker is fine, then locate the reset button on the bottom of the disposal unit and press it. If the disposal still doesn’t turn on, then it may require professional repair or replacement.

2. Garbage Disposal Is Humming But Not Grinding

A humming sound without grinding usually indicates a jammed disposal. Before attempting to fix it, make sure the disposal is turned off and unplugged. Use a flashlight to look inside the disposal for any visible obstructions. 

If you see something stuck, then use tongs or pliers to remove it. You can also try manually turning the blades using an Allen wrench inserted into the bottom of the unit.

3. Water Is Backing Up in the Sink

If water is backing up in your sink, then it’s likely due to a clog in the disposal or the drainpipe. Start by running the disposal with cold water to see if it clears the blockage. If that doesn’t work, then try using a plunger or a plumber’s snake to remove the clog. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage the disposal and pipes.

4. Garbage Disposal Is Leaking

Leaks can occur from several areas of the garbage disposal, including the sink flange, dishwasher connection, or drainpipe. 

If you notice water leaking, then inspect the connections and seals for any signs of damage or wear. Tighten any loose connections, and if the leak persists, you may need to replace the gasket or other parts.

5. Garbage Disposal Is Making Unusual Noises

Unusual noises, such as grinding, rattling, or clanking, can indicate that something is stuck in the disposal or that the blades are damaged. Turn off the disposal and inspect the interior for any foreign objects. If the blades appear damaged or the noise continues, it may be time to replace the disposal.

When to Call a Professional

While many garbage disposal issues can be resolved with DIY troubleshooting, some problems require professional attention. 

If you encounter any of the following situations, then  it’s best to call a professional appliance repair service:

1. Persistent Clogs

If your disposal frequently clogs despite proper usage, then there may be a more significant issue with your plumbing system. A professional can diagnose the problem and provide a long-term solution.

2. Electrical Problems

If your disposal isn’t receiving power or if you’re experiencing electrical issues, then it’s important to call a professional. Electrical problems can be dangerous to fix on your own, and a professional will have the expertise to address the issue safely.

3. Major Leaks

Leaks from your garbage disposal can cause water damage to your cabinets, flooring, and walls. If you can’t locate or fix the source of the leak, then a professional can assess the situation and make the necessary repairs.

4. Strange Odors That Won’t Go Away

If your disposal continues to emit foul odors despite thorough cleaning, then there may be food buildup or mold in an area you can’t reach. A professional can disassemble the unit to clean or replace any affected parts.

5. Disposal Needs Replacement

If your garbage disposal is old, frequently breaks down, or doesn’t function as well as it used to, then it may be time for a replacement. A professional can help you choose the right model for your needs and install it correctly.

Trust Gulf Coast Appliances for Your Garbage Disposal Needs

Keeping your garbage disposal in tip-top shape requires regular maintenance, careful usage, and occasional professional care. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can extend the lifespan of your disposal and ensure it continues to perform efficiently.

However, if you’re experiencing persistent issues or need professional assistance, Gulf Coast Appliances is here to help. Our team of experienced technicians specializes in garbage disposal repair, maintenance, and installation. Whether you’re dealing with a stubborn clog, a malfunctioning unit, or simply need expert advice, we’re committed to providing top-notch service.

Contact Gulf Coast Appliances today to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services. With our help, you can keep your kitchen running smoothly and your garbage disposal in excellent condition.