Top Items You Should Never Put Down Your Garbage Disposal
The garbage disposal is a convenient appliance that can save time and reduce kitchen waste, but it’s not a catch-all for food scraps. Misusing this handy device can lead to clogs, unpleasant odors, and even costly plumbing repairs. Understanding what not to put down the disposal is crucial for maintaining its efficiency and prolonging its lifespan. In this article, we’ll explore the top items you should avoid putting down your garbage disposal to keep your kitchen running smoothly.
Essential Kitchen Tips: Avoid These Disposal No-Nos
When it comes to garbage disposals, certain foods can wreak havoc on their internal mechanisms. First and foremost, fibrous vegetables like celery, asparagus, and corn husks should be avoided at all costs. Their stringy textures can easily wrap around the blades, causing jams and hindering the disposal’s functionality. Similarly, starchy foods such as potatoes and pasta can create a thick paste that clogs the disposal and the plumbing beyond it.
Another common disposal pitfall is the disposal of animal bones and shells. While it may seem harmless to grind up small fish bones or eggshells, larger bones can damage the blades or even break them. Additionally, coffee grounds might seem innocuous, but over time, they can accumulate and create sludge, leading to potential blockages. Educating yourself about these common items will go a long way in ensuring your garbage disposal remains a reliable kitchen tool.
Protect Your Pipes: Garbage Disposal Mistakes to Avoid
It’s not just about what goes into the disposal; how you use it can also impact its performance and the plumbing system. For instance, running hot water while using the disposal is a common mistake. While it may seem intuitive, hot water can liquefy fats and oils, which then solidify further down the pipes, leading to blockages. Instead, using cold water helps solidify fats, allowing them to be chopped up more effectively and carried away.
Additionally, many homeowners fail to understand the importance of regular maintenance. Neglecting to clean the disposal can lead to lingering bad smells and increased wear on the blades. It’s important to periodically grind up ice cubes and citrus peels to both clean the grinding chamber and freshen the unit. Being mindful of usage habits and performing regular maintenance can greatly extend the life of your garbage disposal and protect your plumbing system from unnecessary strain.
Proper disposal practices are essential for maintaining a functional kitchen and preventing plumbing issues. By knowing which items to keep out of your garbage disposal and adopting good usage habits, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure that your appliance serves its purpose effectively. With a little awareness and care, your garbage disposal can remain an invaluable asset in your culinary endeavors. Mr. Rooter Plumbing, Orange County, 949.371.2025