The Dos and Don’ts of Garbage Disposal Maintenance in Houston
Welcome to the M & M Plumbing blog, where we provide valuable tips and advice on plumbing maintenance. In this article, we’ll focus on an essential appliance in your kitchen—the garbage disposal. Your garbage disposal is a workhorse that helps keep your kitchen clean and functional. To ensure its longevity and efficient performance, it’s important to follow some dos and don’ts of garbage disposal maintenance. Whether you’re a homeowner in Houston or beyond, these tips will help you keep your garbage disposal running smoothly for years to come.
Do: Run Cold Water During Operation
Running cold water while using your garbage disposal is a crucial step. Cold water helps solidify any grease or oil, making it easier for the disposal to break it down. It also helps in keeping the motor and other components cool during operation. Make it a habit to run cold water for at least 15 seconds before and after using the disposal. This simple step can prevent clogs and extend the life of your appliance.
Don’t: Put Non-Food Items in the Disposal
One of the most important things to remember is that your garbage disposal is designed specifically for food waste. Non-food items such as plastics, metal, glass, or paper should never be put into the disposal. These items can damage the blades, jam the motor, or even cause leaks in your plumbing system. Be mindful of what you’re putting into the disposal and dispose of non-food items properly.
Do: Cut Large Food Items into Smaller Pieces
To prevent clogs and strain on your garbage disposal, it’s advisable to cut large food items into smaller pieces before sending them down the drain. This includes items like large fruit pits, bones, and hard vegetable stems. By breaking them down into smaller chunks, you reduce the risk of overloading the disposal and ensure a smoother grinding process.
Don’t: Pour Grease or Oil Down the Drain
Pouring grease or oil down the drain is a common mistake that can wreak havoc on your garbage disposal and plumbing system. Grease solidifies and sticks to the inside of your pipes, causing blockages and reducing water flow. Instead, let grease cool in a container and dispose of it in the trash. You can also wipe greasy pans with a paper towel before washing them in the sink to minimize the amount of grease going down the drain.
Do: Use Citrus Fruits for Freshening
To keep your garbage disposal smelling fresh, try using citrus fruits like lemons or oranges. Cut them into small wedges, remove any seeds, and toss them into the disposal while it’s running with cold water. The citrus oils will help eliminate odors and leave a pleasant, fresh scent behind.
Don’t: Use Harsh Chemical Cleaners
Using harsh chemical cleaners is not recommended for garbage disposals. These chemicals can damage the blades and other components, leading to costly repairs. Instead, opt for natural cleaning methods. For example, you can create a mixture of vinegar and baking soda to clean and deodorize your disposal. Simply pour half a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of vinegar. Let it fizz for a few minutes, then rinse with cold water.
M & M Plumbing For Your Garbage Disposal Maintenance
Maintaining your garbage disposal properly is key to its longevity and efficient operation. By following these dos and don’ts, you can avoid unnecessary breakdowns and costly repairs. Remember to run cold water, avoid putting non-food items down the disposal, cut large food items into smaller pieces, refrain from pouring grease down the drain, use citrus fruits for freshening, and avoid using harsh chemical cleaners. If you encounter any issues with your garbage disposal in Houston, trust the experts at M & M Plumbing to provide reliable and professional plumbing services. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule an appointment.
