Everything in our home is need of our attention and maintenance. Some commodities need more care than others. Where many tasks get done frequently and regularly, some get forgotten altogether.
Orsack Plumbing Company would like to remind you that your garbage disposal is in need of care and maintenance, to not only increase its life, but also to keep it running smoothly and efficiently.
Below, we have prepared some tips and basic facts to keep your garbage disposal working at top notch condition.
1. What Does a Garbage Disposal do? The garbage disposal is designed to digest organic foods only. The blades are not designed to chip away at dense and hard materials. If exposed to too much, the shredder will become dull, and eventually, useless. The newer models are better equipped to take on more hardship. It is best to consult your manual for specific things to avoid. Some items can become lodged, causing your engine to burn up and be rendered useless. If ever in doubt, dispose of the waste materials in garbage bins. Hard bones, un-popped popcorn kernels, and hard shells from various species of shell fish should all be avoided, no matter the model of your disposal. NEVER put aluminum, metal or plastic objects down your garbage disposal.
2. Foods Not to Put in Garbage Disposal. There are even several types of food waste that shouldn’t be put through the garbage disposal, such as fibrous or starchy items. It could cause extreme clogging which contributes to overheating, odors and malfunctions.
Avoid the following:
• Banana peels
• Celery
• Corn husks or cobs
• Potato peelings
• Artichokes
• Coffee filters or grounds
• Fruit pits or hard seeds
• Onion skins
• Egg shells
3. List of What Not to Put Down Garbage Disposal. Unfortunately, there are many that are not taught what the garbage disposal is designed for. For those who need clarification, do NOT put the below items through your garbage disposal.
o Rubber bands, twist ties, or pull tabs
o Nails or screws
o Glass
o Eating utensils
o Trash, especially cigarette butts, plastic caps, paper or plastic products
o Plant, flower or other shrubs clippings or pruned waste
o Toys
o Hair
o Grease
4. Hot or Cold Water When Running Garbage Disposal. Always avoid hot water. This will cause it to overheat. Run cold water while the garbage disposal is on to keep everything cooled off. Continue the water flow for 30 seconds- to a minute after all food seems to be shredded to properly flush away all remnants are flushed down the drain.
5. Garbage Disposal Cleaning. Begin with the rubber exterior. A good anti-bacterial is a good start, spray and wipe down. Pour 1 cup vinegar and 2 cups ice cubes down the drain and turn the garbage disposal on for a minute while running cool water. For superior cleaning, run some vinegar and a tray of ice cubes with lemon juice down the drain with cool water on for a minute or two. Running the disposal and cool water with orange or lemon peel is a good way to neutralize odors.
