what to put down a garbage disposal

3 min read 27-12-2024

Meta Description: Unsure what you can and can't put down your garbage disposal? This comprehensive guide covers safe-to-dispose items, things to avoid, and troubleshooting tips for a smoothly running disposal. Learn what foods are garbage disposal friendly and which can cause clogs and damage. Keep your garbage disposal running smoothly with our expert advice!

What Can I Put Down My Garbage Disposal?

Knowing what to put down your garbage disposal and what to avoid is key to keeping it running smoothly. Let's start with the safe stuff.

Garbage Disposal Friendly Foods:

Soft Fruits and Vegetables: Think banana peels, melon rinds (cut into smaller pieces), and cooked or soft vegetables. These break down easily.
Coffee Grounds: These actually help to sharpen the blades and absorb odors. Just don't overdo it.
Eggshells: These add calcium to the wastewater and help keep the disposal sharp. Crack them first!
Small Bones: Small, soft bones from fish or chicken are generally okay, but avoid large or hard ones.
Pasta: Cooked pasta is fine, but avoid dumping raw pasta in your garbage disposal.
Rice: Cooked rice is typically okay in small amounts, but avoid dumping large quantities.

Best Practices for Garbage Disposal Use:

Cold Water is Key: Always run cold water while using your garbage disposal. Cold water helps to flush away food waste and prevents grease from solidifying.
Use in Short Bursts: Don't overload your garbage disposal. Run it in short bursts, allowing time for the waste to break down.
Regular Cleaning: Regularly flush your disposal with ice cubes and lemon peels to clean and deodorize.

What NOT to Put Down Your Garbage Disposal:

This list is crucial for avoiding costly repairs and clogs.

Garbage Disposal No-Nos:

Grease and Oil: Grease and oil solidify and coat the blades, leading to clogs and malfunctions. Dispose of these in a separate container.
Fibrous Foods: Celery, artichoke hearts, and onion skins are very fibrous and can wrap around the blades, causing jams.
Starchy Foods: Potatoes, corn husks, and other starchy foods can stick to the disposal and form a paste-like consistency, leading to clogs.
Large Bones: Large chicken bones, beef bones, and pork bones can damage the blades and motor.
Hard Foods: Nutshells, fruit pits, and other hard foods are too tough for the disposal to break down.
Non-Food Items: Never put anything non-food related down your garbage disposal. This includes things like plastic, metal, glass, and anything else that doesn't decompose naturally.

Troubleshooting Common Garbage Disposal Problems:

Clogged Disposal: If your garbage disposal is clogged, turn off the power and try using a plumbing snake or a retrieval tool to remove the blockage.
Humming Sound: A humming sound often indicates a jammed disposal. Turn off the power and check for obstructions.
Slow Drainage: This could be due to a partial clog or a buildup of grease in the pipes. Consider using a drain cleaner (following instructions carefully) or calling a plumber.
Burning Smell: A burning smell indicates an overheating motor, often from a jam or overload. Turn off the power immediately and call a professional.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How often should I clean my garbage disposal?

A: Ideally, you should flush your disposal with ice cubes and lemon peels at least once a week to clean and deodorize it.

Q: What if I accidentally put something wrong down the disposal?

A: If you suspect a clog or damage, immediately turn off the power and don’t try to force anything through. Check for obstructions and call a plumber if needed.

Q: My disposal is leaking. What should I do?

A: A leak often points to a serious issue and may require professional repair. Avoid using the disposal until it's inspected.

Conclusion: Maintaining Your Garbage Disposal

By following these guidelines on what to put down your garbage disposal and what to avoid, you can keep your kitchen appliance running efficiently and avoid costly repairs. Remember, prevention is key – proper use and regular cleaning can save you a lot of trouble down the line! Taking care of your garbage disposal ensures a smooth and clean kitchen experience. Always prioritize safety and call a professional for any serious issues.