A garbage disposal is a convenient kitchen appliance that simplifies cleaning and waste management. However, while it can handle a lot, there are certain items that should never be put down the drain. Improper use of your garbage disposal can lead to clogged pipes, unpleasant odors, and expensive repairs. In this post, we’ll discuss what you should avoid putting in your garbage disposal to prevent damage and the need for professional plumbing services.
The Importance of Proper Garbage Disposal Use
While garbage disposals are designed to grind food waste, they are not invincible. Misuse can lead to blockages, damaged blades, or even a broken disposal. It’s essential to understand the limitations of your garbage disposal to ensure it functions smoothly and lasts longer.
Items to Avoid Putting in Your Garbage Disposal
- Grease, Fats, and Oils
Pouring grease, fats, and oils down your garbage disposal is one of the most common mistakes. These substances may seem harmless in liquid form, but they solidify as they cool down, causing sticky buildup inside your pipes. This buildup can lead to clogs that will eventually require professional cleaning. Instead of using the garbage disposal, collect grease in a container and dispose of it in the trash. Learn more about how to properly dispose of grease and fats.
- Fibrous Vegetables
Vegetables like celery, asparagus, and artichokes have long, fibrous strands that can get tangled in the blades of your garbage disposal. These fibers are notorious for clogging pipes and jamming the disposal. It’s best to throw fibrous vegetables in the trash or compost bin to prevent potential damage to your disposal unit.
- Eggshells
There is a common misconception that eggshells can help sharpen garbage disposal blades. However, eggshells can create a gritty sludge that sticks to the sides of your pipes and disposal unit. The thin membrane inside the shell can also wrap around the blades, reducing their efficiency. Avoid disposing of eggshells down the drain to prevent unnecessary wear and tear on your appliance.
- Coffee Grounds
Although coffee grounds may seem harmless, they tend to clump together in water and form a thick paste that can clog your pipes. Instead of washing coffee grounds down the drain, consider using them as compost material or throwing them in the trash. Read more about alternative ways to use coffee grounds.
- Pasta, Rice, and Bread
Pasta, rice, and bread expand when they come into contact with water. These starchy foods can swell in your pipes, creating blockages that your garbage disposal may not be able to handle. Even small amounts of these foods can lead to problems over time, so it’s best to dispose of them in the trash.
- Bones
Bones, whether from chicken, beef, or pork, are too hard for your garbage disposal to break down. Attempting to grind bones can dull the blades, damage the motor, and lead to clogs in the drain. Always discard bones in the trash to avoid costly repairs or replacements.
- Non-Food Items
It’s essential to remember that garbage disposals are only meant for food waste. Non-food items like paper towels, plastic, glass, or metal can damage the disposal’s motor and clog your pipes. Make sure all non-food waste goes into the trash and not your garbage disposal.
- Fruit Pits and Seeds
Fruit pits and seeds, such as those from avocados, peaches, and cherries, are extremely hard. They can dull the blades and jam your disposal. Always throw fruit pits and large seeds in the trash instead of attempting to grind them in your disposal.
- Shells from Seafood
Seafood shells, like those from shrimp, clams, and oysters, are tough and not suitable for a garbage disposal. These shells can jam the blades and cause damage to the unit. It’s best to dispose of seafood shells in the trash or compost.
- Potato Peels
Potato peels might seem harmless, but they can form a starchy paste when processed by your garbage disposal. This paste can stick to the blades and pipes, leading to clogs. It’s safer to discard potato peels in the trash or compost them if possible.
How to Maintain Your Garbage Disposal
Regular maintenance can extend the life of your garbage disposal and prevent the need for frequent repairs. Here are a few tips for keeping your disposal in top shape:
- Run Cold Water: Always run cold water while using your garbage disposal. Cold water solidifies grease, making it easier for the disposal to break it down. Hot water, on the other hand, can melt grease, which then sticks to the pipes.
- Clean with Ice Cubes and Vinegar: Grinding ice cubes and vinegar helps to remove buildup from the blades and deodorize the unit.
- Use Citrus Peels: Occasionally, grinding small pieces of citrus peels like lemons or oranges can help freshen the disposal and reduce odors.
When to Call a Professional
If you notice any of the following signs, it may be time to call a professional plumber:
- Slow Draining: If your sink is draining slowly despite using the garbage disposal, there may be a blockage further down the line that requires professional attention.
- Foul Odors: If cleaning your disposal doesn’t get rid of bad odors, it could be a sign of food buildup in areas that are difficult to reach.
- Unusual Noises: If your garbage disposal is making strange grinding or rattling noises, it could be jammed or damaged. It’s best to have a professional plumber inspect it before the problem worsens.
Happy Plumbing, Serving San Diego
At Happy Plumbing, we offer professional drain cleaning and garbage disposal repair services in San Diego to help you maintain a fully functional kitchen. Whether you need assistance with a clogged garbage disposal or a complete unit replacement, our expert plumbers are here to help.