Garbage disposals are super handy kitchen tools. If you care for them properly, they can lead to good smells, clogs, and even costly repairs requiring a plumber in Desoto. According to Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Dallas, you can follow a few simple maintenance tips to keep your garbage disposal running smoothly. 

1. Use Cold Water When Running the Disposal

One of the easiest ways to keep your garbage disposal working properly is to run it with cold water. Cold water helps solidify grease or oils, making them easier to chop and send down the drain. On the other hand, hot water can cause grease to melt, leading to clogs later on. An expert plumber in Desoto will often recommend always letting the cold water run for a few seconds before and after using the disposal to ensure all waste is properly flushed out. This simple step can prevent future plumbing issues and keep your disposal functioning smoothly.

2. Only Put Safe Items Down the Disposal

Not everything belongs in your garbage disposal. Knowing what you should and shouldn’t put down there is essential.

Here’s a quick list of what’s safe:

  • Soft foods (like fruits, vegetables, and small amounts of cooked meats)
  • Small bones (like chicken bones)
  • Eggshells

And here’s what you should avoid:

  • Large bones
  • Fibrous vegetables (like celery or corn husks)
  • Coffee grounds
  • Grease and oils

Putting the wrong things in your garbage disposal can lead to jams, clogs, and even damage to the blades. If you’re unsure, throwing it in the trash is better than damaging your disposal.

3. Clean It Regularly

Cleaning your garbage disposal doesn’t take long and can make a big difference. Here’s a simple way to clean your disposal:

  1. Pour a cup of baking soda into the disposal.
  2. Follow that with a cup of vinegar.
  3. Let it sit for a few minutes while it fizzes and breaks down grime.
  4. Rinse with cold water.

You can also grind ice cubes and a handful of rock salt to help clean the blades and remove any stuck-on food particles. 

4. Avoid Overloading the Disposal

It can be tempting to throw a lot of food into the garbage disposal immediately, especially after a big meal, but overloading it can cause problems. Your garbage disposal works best when you feed it small amounts of food at a time. This way, the blades can chop up the food properly, and you’ll avoid clogs. If you have a lot of food waste to eliminate, try breaking it up into smaller batches and running the disposal in between.

5. Run the Disposal Regularly

Even if you don’t use your garbage disposal every day, it’s a good idea to run it regularly. Running it with just water can help keep the blades sharp and the unit in good working order. So, even if you only have a little bit of food to dispose of, turning it on every few days is still a good idea to keep things moving smoothly.

6. Sharpen the Blades With Ice

Did you know that ice can help sharpen the blades of your garbage disposal? Drop a few ice cubes into the disposal and turn it on occasionally. 

7. Be Careful With DIY Fixes

If your garbage disposal isn’t working correctly, you might be tempted to try fixing it yourself. While minor issues can be handled at home, like using a plunger for minor clogs, more severe clogs should be left to a professional. Check out here to know the steps to unclog a garbage disposal. Correcting the disposal without the proper tools or knowledge can worsen the problem.

If you’re ever unsure about what’s wrong with your garbage disposal, it’s best to call a plumber in Desoto. 

8. Pay Attention to Strange Noises

Garbage disposals can be noisy, but if you start hearing strange sounds, like grinding or screeching, it could be a sign that something is wrong. These sounds could mean a hard object is stuck in the disposal, or the blades may be damaged. Turn off the disposal immediately and check for any objects that might have fallen in. If the problem persists, having a professional take a look is a good idea.

9. Know When to Replace Your Garbage Disposal

Garbage disposals don’t last forever. On average, they can last about 10-15 years with proper care. If your disposal is getting older and you notice frequent clogs, strange noises, or leaks, it may be time to replace it. Continuing to use a broken or outdated disposal can cause damage to your plumbing system. Investing in a new disposal is better than dealing with costly repairs later.

If you are unsure whether you need a new garbage disposal, consult a plumber in Desoto. They can assess the condition of your current unit and recommend the best course of action.

Mr. Rooter Plumbing of Dallas

Maintaining your garbage disposal doesn’t have to be complicated. Following these simple tips can keep your disposal running smoothly for years. Remember to use cold water, avoid putting harmful items down the drain, and clean it regularly. Paying attention to how your disposal sounds and runs can help spot problems early.

If something goes wrong or your disposal is nearing the end of its life, don’t hesitate to contact a professional.