Garbage disposals are kitchen appliances designed to shred food waste into smaller pieces, which can then be easily flushed away through the plumbing system. Garbage disposals sit under your kitchen sink, disposing of waste, helping to reduce the rotting of food from sitting in your trash cans. While we would love to be able to throw all scraps down the drain for the garbage disposal to flush, there are quite a few things that homeowners should avoid putting down the kitchen sink, and subsequently through the garbage disposal.
As a homeowner or renter, it is important to know the basics about your garbage disposal, which is why we have put together a guide with garbage disposal FAQs and the do’s and don’ts when using your system.
Common Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Garbage Disposals
1. How does a garbage disposal work?
Garbage disposals use sharp blades or impellers to grind food waste into tiny particles. These particles are then flushed down the drain with water into the sewage system.
2. What can I put in a garbage disposal?
Garbage disposals are designed to handle most food scraps, including fruit and vegetable peels, small bones, and soft leftovers. However, hard items like bones, coffee grounds, eggshells, and fibrous foods like celery should be avoided.
3. Can I put grease or oil down the disposal?
No, it is not recommended to put grease, oil, or fats down the disposal as they can solidify and clog the drain over time. Dispose of these items in the trash instead.
4. How do I clean and maintain my garbage disposal?
Regularly clean the disposal by running cold water and some dish soap while it is turned on. You can also grind ice cubes or small citrus peels to help eliminate odors. Avoid using chemical cleaners.
5. Why is my garbage disposal jammed?
A disposal can become jammed if something hard or fibrous gets caught in the blades. If this happens, turn off the unit and use a disposal wrench (usually provided) or an Allen wrench to manually turn the blades and dislodge the blockage.
6. What do I do if my garbage disposal is not working?
First, check if the disposal is plugged in and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. If the unit makes a humming noise but doesn’t turn on, it may be jammed. If it doesn’t make any noise, there might be an electrical issue, and you may need to call a professional.
7. Can I use my garbage disposal with a septic system?
Yes, many modern garbage disposals are septic-friendly. Look for models specifically designed for septic systems and avoid disposing of excessive amounts of grease, oils, or non-biodegradable materials.
8. How long does a garbage disposal last?
The lifespan of a garbage disposal depends on usage and maintenance. With proper care, a good-quality disposal can last around 10 to 15 years.
9. Are garbage disposals environmentally friendly?
While they can help reduce food waste going to landfills, they do consume electricity and water. Using them responsibly and composting when possible can be more eco-friendly options.
10. Can I install a garbage disposal myself?
If you have basic plumbing knowledge and skills, you may be able to install a garbage disposal yourself. However, it’s recommended to have a professional plumber do the installation to ensure it’s done correctly and safely.
What NOT to Put Down Your Garbage Disposal
There are several items you should avoid putting down your garbage disposal to prevent damage to the unit, clogs in the plumbing system, and potential safety hazards.
Here are some things you should not put down your garbage disposal and the reasons why:
1. Grease, Oil, and Fat – These substances can solidify and create blockages in both the disposal and the pipes, leading to clogs and potential backups.
2. Bones – Garbage disposals are not designed to handle hard items like bones, which can damage the blades and motor.
3. Coffee Grounds – Coffee grounds can accumulate and form a sludgy mass, clogging the drain over time.
4. Eggshells – The thin membrane inside eggshells can wrap around the disposal’s blades, potentially causing damage.
5. Potato Peels and Other Starchy Foods – Starchy foods can turn into a thick, paste-like substance, leading to clogs and blockages.
6. Fibrous Foods (e.g., Celery, Corn Husks): The long, fibrous strands can tangle around the disposal’s blades, causing jams and potential motor burnout.
7. Fruit Pits and Seeds: These hard items can damage the blades and motor, leading to costly repairs.
8. Shells (e.g., Clam, Oyster): The hard shells can damage the disposal and may not break down properly.
9. Non-Food Items: Never put non-food items like glass, plastic, metal, or paper down the disposal, as they can cause damage and are not biodegradable.
10. Chemical Cleaners: Avoid using chemical drain cleaners as they can be harmful to the environment and potentially damage the disposal’s components.
11. Large Quantities of Food: Overloading the disposal with too much food waste at once can strain the motor and lead to inefficiency.
12. Expandable Foods (e.g., Rice, Pasta): These foods can absorb water and expand, causing clogs in the drain.
Remember that a garbage disposal is not a substitute for a trash can. When in doubt, it’s better to dispose of items in the regular trash or consider composting suitable food waste. Proper usage and responsible disposal habits will help extend the life of your garbage disposal and keep your kitchen plumbing running smoothly.
If you encounter any issues with your garbage disposal that you are unsure how to handle, it’s always best to consult a professional plumber or technician.
Hansen Family Plumbing & Air is the leading plumbing company in Mesa, AZ. If you are located in the region and need garbage disposal replacement or repairs, we are the team to call!
