Your garbage disposal is like a silent hero in your kitchen, efficiently tackling food scraps and keeping your sink clean. But to keep this workhorse running smoothly and avoid unexpected breakdowns, you need to give it the TLC it deserves. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore nine essential tips for maintaining your garbage disposal and extending its lifespan. Plus, we'll highlight the do's and don'ts to ensure you're making the right choices.
9 Tips You Can't Ignore.
1. Run It Regularly
DO run the garbage disposal every few days, even if you don't have food scraps to grind. Running it with cold water prevents the blades from rusting due to lack of use and helps wash away any lingering residue.
2. Be Selective with Scraps
DON'T send fibrous, starchy, or hard leftovers down the drain. Avoid foods like banana skins, broccoli, celery, corn husks, and potato peels, as well as bones and eggshells. Stick to ice cubes and softer foods, but always cut them into small pieces.
3. Safety First
DO power down your garbage disposal before performing any repairs or maintenance. Unplug the unit or turn off the kitchen's power at the circuit breaker to prevent accidents while working around the blades.
4. Avoid Hands-on Fixes
DON'T use your fingers to remove clogs. Protect yourself from the sharp blades by using pliers or tongs to extract any unprocessed scraps.
5. Use the Wrench
DO use the wrench that came with your garbage disposal to untangle any fibers wrapped around the blades. Simply turn the nut at the base of the unit, press the small red reset button, and flip the switch to restart.
6. Say No to Chemicals
DON'T use bleach or commercial drain cleaners to unclog your disposal. These harsh chemicals can splash back when the unit is turned on, posing a safety hazard.
7. Freshen Up with Lemons
DO ward off odors naturally by pouring warm water down the disposal while it grinds cut-up lemons. The citric acid in lemons has antibacterial properties, and the peels help scrub away residue.
8. Avoid Hot Water in Clogs
DON'T pour hot water into a clogged disposal. Heat can melt fats, making unclogging more challenging.
9. Regular Cleaning Routine
DO clean your garbage disposal every two weeks. Fill it with ice cubes and rock salt, then run it for a minute to scrape away built-up residue. Follow up with a mixture of vinegar and baking soda, scrubbing the flaps with an old toothbrush.
By following these tips, you'll ensure that your garbage disposal remains a reliable kitchen companion, preventing clogs and costly repairs. For all your plumbing needs in Hollywood, FL, trust Dovis Plumbing, your local plumbing service provider. We're here to keep your plumbing in top shape!
