what not to put in garbage disposal pdf

3 min read 25-12-2024

Meta Description: Avoid costly plumbing repairs! This guide provides a definitive list of items you should never put down your garbage disposal, along with explanations and safe alternatives. Learn what to do with problem foods and protect your pipes. Downloadable PDF included!

Introduction

Garbage disposals are convenient kitchen appliances, but misuse can lead to clogs, costly repairs, and even damage to your plumbing system. Knowing what not to put down your garbage disposal is crucial for maintaining its longevity and preventing unpleasant surprises. This comprehensive guide will outline the items you should absolutely avoid, along with helpful tips and alternatives. Download the PDF at the end for a handy reference.

Foods to Avoid Putting Down Your Garbage Disposal

This section details the types of food that are particularly problematic for garbage disposals. Understanding why they're harmful is key to making better choices.

1. Fibrous Foods

What not to put down: Celery, artichoke hearts, asparagus, corn husks, and onion skins. These create a tangled mess that clogs the disposal's blades.
Why they're bad: Their stringy fibers wrap around the blades and motor, hindering proper function. They can also build up over time, causing blockages.
Alternatives: Compost them or discard them in the trash.

2. Starchy Foods

What not to put down: Potatoes, pasta, rice, and bread. These expand when wet, leading to clogs.
Why they're bad: Excess starch creates a sticky paste that attracts other food particles. This paste then hardens and clogs your pipes.
Alternatives: Dispose of these in the trash.

3. Greasy/Fatty Foods

What not to put down: Fats, oils, and grease from meats, butter, and cooking oil. These solidify and clog drains.
Why they're bad: These substances cool and congeal in your pipes, creating a barrier that traps other food particles.
Alternatives: Let grease cool, then pour it into a container and dispose of it in the trash. Alternatively, use paper towels to absorb the grease and then throw them away.

4. Hard Foods

What not to put down: Bones, pits (from fruits like avocados, peaches, cherries), fruit peels (especially very tough ones), and shells (from nuts or eggs). These are incredibly hard on the blades and can cause damage.
Why they're bad: Hard substances can dull or even break the blades. This can lead to decreased efficiency and eventual failure of the disposal.
Alternatives: Dispose of these in the trash.

5. Other Problematic Items

What not to put down: Coffee grounds (can build up and clog), eggshells (can jam the blades), and fibrous peels from fruits and vegetables.
Why they're bad: While some people advocate for coffee grounds, they are actually very abrasive and can scratch the garbage disposal’s components over time. Eggshells are sharp and can jam the system.
Alternatives: Compost coffee grounds. Dispose of eggshells in the trash.

Non-Food Items to Avoid

Beyond food, several non-food items pose significant threats to your garbage disposal. These should never be put down the drain.

What not to put down: Plastic, glass, metal, rubber, and anything non-organic. These can break the blades or damage the motor.
Why they're bad: They're not designed to be processed by the disposal and can cause serious damage.
Alternatives: Dispose of these items in the trash.

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Even with careful avoidance, problems can arise. Understanding how to address them is crucial.

Q: My garbage disposal is clogged. What should I do?

A: First, turn off the power to the disposal. Then, try using a plumber's snake to dislodge the clog. If that doesn't work, or if you're uncomfortable working with plumbing, call a professional.

Q: My disposal smells bad. How can I fix this?

A: Run cold water and add some ice cubes along with citrus peels (orange, lemon, or lime). The ice helps clean the blades, while the citrus helps freshen the smell. A commercial garbage disposal cleaner can also be helpful.

Conclusion

By avoiding the items listed above, you can significantly extend the life of your garbage disposal and prevent costly repairs. Remembering to use your disposal correctly and perform regular maintenance will keep your kitchen running smoothly for years to come. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult a professional plumber if you encounter any serious issues.

(Downloadable PDF link here)