Always use cold water when running your garbage disposal. Cold water helps to solidify any grease or oils, making them easier to chop up and dispose of. Hot water, on the other hand, can melt fats and cause them to coat the blades and the inside of the disposal, leading to clogs.

Not everything should go down your garbage disposal. Avoid disposing of these items to prevent clogs and damage:

• Fibrous Foods: Foods like celery, corn husks, and onion skins can wrap around the blades and cause jams.
• Starchy Foods: Potato peels, pasta, and rice can expand with water and create blockages.
• Hard Items: Bones, fruit pits, and eggshells can dull the blades and damage the motor.
• Grease and Oil: These substances can build up and create clogs.

Instead of dumping large amounts of food waste into the disposal all at once, feed it small amounts gradually. This practice helps prevent overloading and ensures that everything is properly ground up and washed away.

Cleaning your garbage disposal regularly helps to prevent odors and maintain its efficiency. Here’s how to do it:

• Ice and Salt: Grinding a handful of ice cubes and a small amount of rock salt helps to scrape away food residue from the blades and inside walls.
• Citrus Peels: Running lemon or orange peels through the disposal freshens it up and helps to remove odors.
• Baking Soda and Vinegar: Pour half a cup of baking soda followed by a cup of vinegar into the disposal. Let it fizz for a few minutes before rinsing with cold water to clean and deodorize.

Frequent use of your garbage disposal helps prevent rust and corrosion. It also ensures that parts keep moving and don’t seize up. Even if you don’t have food waste, running the disposal with a little cold water every few days can keep it in good condition.

Harsh drain cleaners can damage the blades and other parts of your garbage disposal. If you need to clear a clog, opt for natural methods like the baking soda and vinegar method mentioned above, or consult a professional plumber.

Periodically check the connections around your garbage disposal, including the mounting assembly and the drain pipe. Tighten any loose connections to prevent leaks and ensure everything is securely in place.

If your garbage disposal is making unusual noises, not working properly, or you encounter persistent clogs, it’s time to call in a professional. Trying to fix these issues yourself can sometimes lead to further damage. City Plumbing and Rooter’s experienced plumbers can diagnose and repair your garbage disposal efficiently and safely.

A well-maintained garbage disposal can make kitchen cleanup easier and prevent plumbing issues. By following these tips, you can extend the life of your disposal and keep it functioning at its best. If you need professional maintenance or repairs, don’t hesitate to contact City Plumbing and Rooter. Our dedicated team is here to help you with all your plumbing needs, ensuring your kitchen runs smoothly.