Summary:
Garbage Disposal Golden Rules: The "Do's"
First and foremost, cold water is a must. Whenever you’re using your garbage disposal, let cold water run through – both during and after a cycle. It helps break down oils and fats so they harden and move out of the system rather than sticking to the inside of your pipes.
Another smart tip? Toss in some ice cubes every once in a while. The ice helps knock off residue from the blades and keeps things clean inside. Smelling foul odors and want to freshen things up? Drop in some citrus peels; lemons and oranges work great. As the blades break down the peels, natural oils are released, cleaning the walls of the unit and leaving a fresh, clean scent behind.
Garbage Disposal No-Gos That Lead to Trouble
Even though it’s tempting to toss everything down the drain, your garbage disposal isn’t built for every scrap. Fibrous foods, such as celery, corn husks, and onion skins, can wrap around the internal components and jam the unit.
You’ll also want to avoid starchy foods like pasta, rice, and even mashed potatoes. The starches can expand when wet and turn into thick clumps that clog your plumbing. Being mindful of what you put down the drain can help you avoid emergency calls for garbage disposal repair.
Warning Signs Something’s Not Right
Even though it’s tempting to toss everything down the drain, your garbage disposal isn’t built for every scrap. Fibrous foods, such as celery, corn husks, and onion skins, can wrap around the internal components and jam the unit.
You’ll also want to avoid starchy foods like pasta, rice, and even mashed potatoes. The starches can expand when wet and turn into thick clumps that clog your plumbing. Being mindful of what you put down the drain can help you avoid emergency calls for garbage disposal repair.
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The "Don'ts" of Garbage Disposal Use: Avoid These Mistakes
Grease and cooking oils may seem harmless when they’re hot, but once they cool, they can spell serious trouble as they harden in your pipes. To save your plumbing—and your hard-earned cash— skip dumping grease and oil down your garbage disposal.
You should also avoid using chemical drain cleaners. While they often promise quick fixes, they’re harsh on your disposal’s internal parts and can eat away at seals and hardware. Finally, don’t overload the unit. Sending too much food down at once can overwhelm the motor and jam it up. Stick to small batches and avoid non-food items entirely: no plastic, no glass, no utensils.
DIY Garbage Disposal Maintenance Made Easy
Looking for a natural way to clean your disposal? Try a combo of baking soda and vinegar. Pour one cup of baking soda followed by one cup of white vinegar into the drain. Let it sit for 30 minutes, then rinse with cold water. This mix helps break down buildup and fights odors.
Additionally, make it a habit to periodically inspect the components within your garbage disposal chamber. Tightening a few screws or clearing small debris can help prevent bigger problems down the road. These little steps go a long way toward smart garbage disposal maintenance for your St. Charles home.
When DIY Isn’t Enough - Call FloTek Plumbing
If your garbage disposal still smells, hums, or refuses to turn on even after trying a reset, it might be time to call in the pros. FloTek Plumbing provides fast and affordable garbage disposal services throughout St. Charles, IL.
We troubleshoot clogs, fix jams, and replace faulty units with minimal disruption. Whether it’s a one-time fix or a full replacement, you can count on our team to address the problem quickly so you can get back to your normal routine.
Keep Your Garbage Disposal Flowing Smoothly with FloTek Plumbing
The truth about garbage disposals? They’re tough, but they do need a little help from you to keep functioning properly. By sticking to the dos, avoiding the don’ts, and scheduling garbage disposal maintenance when needed, your unit will serve your St. Charles kitchen for years. When you need the help of a pro, FloTek Plumbing is your source for affordable garbage disposal repairs, replacements, and routine care. If something seems off, don’t delay—give us a call to schedule an appointment today!
