You might use your garbage disposal on a daily basis without giving it another thought. However, following our essential garbage disposal maintenance tips can protect your investment. Consider our top 10 tips, then contact MN Plumbing & Home Services.
1. Run the Disposal Once a Day
Without frequent use, the metal in your disposal can rust and perform poorly. Therefore, running it at least once per day, even with some ice cubes, can help keep it in top shape and lasting longer.
2. Never Use Harsh Chemicals
While you should clean your garbage disposal regularly, don't use any harsh cleaning chemicals, as this can lead to your plumbing and garbage disposal not working.
3. Only Place Food Waste and Scraps in the Garbage Disposal
The disposal is for food bits and waste only. If you grind coffee grounds or large foods, you're likely to start searching for "garbage disposal repair near me."
4. Eliminate Unpleasant Odors With Citrus Peels
Keep your kitchen smelling fresh by placing warm water (not hot) and citrus peels in the disposal.
5. Clean the Disposal Periodically
Using a brush and dish soap, clean your disposal every two weeks or so. First, pour in rock salt and ice cubes, then combine a cup of vinegar and baking soda. This routine will kill bacteria, remove gross odors, and clear away any stubborn, stuck substances clogging up your system.
6. Run Cold Water With Every Use
Cold water is ideal when running garbage disposals; you should let the water run for 10-20 seconds after you've ground food. You can use hot water after grinding but should stick to cold when running it to prevent stuck-on greases, oils, and substances from blocking your disposal.
You can flush the disposal by filling your sink with cold water and letting the water drain out.
7. Keep Thick Substances and Fibrous Foods Out of the Disposal
You should never pour oils, fats, or grease down the garbage disposal, as you could end up prematurely needing a new garbage disposal. While you can put food scraps in it, make sure you never throw any of the following into your system:
- Potato peels
- Eggshells
- Corn husks
- Coffee grounds
- Celery
- Bacon grease
8. Call for Repairs When Necessary
If you can't resolve your disposal issue safely and effectively, it's time to call in a trained expert.
9. Grind Small Amounts of Food at a Time
Only place small bits of food and scraps in the disposal.
10. Consider Replacement After 12 Years
These appliances typically last between 10 and 15 years. If you don't keep up with garbage disposal maintenance or neglect your system, it could fail prematurely. Work with a trusted plumber for a replacement consultation if your appliance is nearing the end of its life.
Find Garbage Disposal Services in Prior Lake, MN, and Beyond
If you need an experienced professional to unclog a garbage disposal or fix another plumbing issue, we can help! MN Plumbing & Home Services proudly serves Burnsville, MN, and all neighboring areas, so call us today at (952) 469-8341 to schedule your appointment or contact us online.