When it comes to taking care of the garbage disposal in your kitchen sink, it’s important to be mindful of what you put down the drain. If you want your garbage disposal to stay running for years, a few simple tips and tricks can help ensure its longevity. From what types of food and materials should never be put in the disposal to proper cleaning, these garbage disposal tips will keep your system running smoothly.
Garbage Disposal Tips: Never Pour Fats or Oils Down Your Disposal
This is one of the most common mistakes people make when it comes to their garbage disposal. Fats and oils can solidify inside the pipe, create clogs, and damage the blades of your disposal. When these items are poured down the drain, they may look like liquid, but when they hit cold water in your pipes, they will solidify and cause significant problems.
Don’t Put Large Pieces of Food or Fibrous Vegetables Down the Disposal
Large chunks of food, especially fibrous vegetables like celery, can wrap around the blades in your garbage disposal and cause it to malfunction. To avoid clogs or jams, break up any large pieces of food you throw into the disposal. Also, avoid putting things like eggshells or bone fragments down the drain, as they can cause similar problems.
Run Water through the Disposal Before and After Use
One way to keep your garbage disposal running smoothly is to ensure water is running when you use it. Before and after you grind up any food, run cold water down the drain for about a minute to flush out any debris that could be stuck in the pipes or blades. This will also help to keep your disposal odor-free.
Clean Your Garbage Disposal Regularly
Cleaning your garbage disposal regularly will help to keep it in top shape. To clean the disposal, mix one part white vinegar with one part baking soda and pour it down the drain. Let this mixture sit for a few minutes before running cold water through the disposal. This will help remove any built-up grime or debris stuck inside the pipes or blades over time.
Garbage Disposal Tips: Rely on the Reset Button When Necessary
If your garbage disposal ever becomes jammed or clogged, don’t reach down the drain to try fixing it. Instead, locate the reset button that is likely located on a panel near the disposal and press it firmly. This will help reset the system and should get it running again quickly.
Following these simple garbage disposal tips will help keep your system running smoothly for years. Be mindful of what you put down the drain, clean it regularly, and rely on the reset button when necessary. With a little care, your garbage disposal should remain in good working order.
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