Dos and Don’ts of Garbage Disposal 

Many assume everything is fine as long as the system functions, but delaying inspections causes minor problems to become more pronounced. Our experts at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Youngstown, have compiled the dos and don’ts you need to know about garbage disposal.

Don’t Dispose of High-Volume Waste

Moderation is critical when using the garbage disposal. The systems may handle a few bits and scraps, but much food waste can clog the pipes, compromising the unit’s function and durability. Call a professional plumber for garbage disposal repair and maintenance if you notice signs of deterioration or malfunction.

Don’t Add Abrasive Items

Did you know rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, and potato peels shouldn’t go into the garbage disposal unit? Although small amounts from rinsing a scrapped plate may not raise concerns, many scratchy items turn to goo and clog the pipes. Common signs of a clogged system include foul odors, slow drains, and backups, which require the expertise of a plumber to prevent further damage.

Don’t Add hard or Stringy Substances

Garbage disposals don’t have actual blades. This means they can’t handle hard things like corn combs or bones. In addition, stringy substances like rhubarb and celery shouldn’t go down the disposal unit because of the high risk of blockage. Stringy food particles usually move around, collecting debris and forming a clog.

Don’t Sharpen the Pulverizers

Garbage disposals have metallic pulverizers, which many confuse for blades. As mentioned, kitchen disposal systems do not have blades, so sharpening them is discouraged. Even the grinder or the outer spinning shredder ring with sharp edges doesn’t require sharpening. If your system is not disintegrating food particles, consult a plumber for professional garbage disposal repair and maintenance.

Do Keep It Clean

With everything that goes down the disposal system, it is bound to form a coating of gunk with time. Buildup can affect the unit’s function and cause foul smells to infiltrate your living spaces. Run a cup of ice and dish soap, but a mixture of white vinegar and baking soda can clear the gunk and add freshness.