A garbage disposal is one of the most under appreciated appliances in your home and kitchen. Most use their garbage disposal daily and some throw almost anything into their garbage disposal.
But, when was the last time you gave your garbage disposal a little TLC?
Just as easily as any other appliances, garbage disposals can develop problems. And, some of those problems can shorten their lives. To make sure your garbage disposal operates as long as possible and performs at the highest level, follow the three guidelines below –
Tip One – Know What To Avoid Putting Down Your Garbage Disposal
There are certain things a garbage disposal is not designed to handle. Two of the most obvious materials are metal and plastic. Neither should be put in a disposal. There are other items not as obvious that are harmful to garbage disposals. Consider the following –
- Fibrous Vegetables – Celery and onion skins can cause it to jam up. They can get tangled in the disposal impeller. Fibrous vegetables should be thrown in the trash.
- Fats, Oils, and Grease – These are often poured down the disposal while in their liquid or semi-liquid states. Unfortunately, these substances all solidify as they cool. The cooling can clog the drain and gum up the impeller. Never pour fats, oils or grease it down a drain. Always use another method to dispose of them.
- Bones or Pits – These items can break your garbage disposal. Some people say small bones or fruit pits are acceptable. However, it’s best just not to take the risk.
Tip Two – Occasionally Pour Boiling Water Down Your Garbage Disposal
It’s a good idea to pour some boiling water down the disposal to help loosen and rinse away waste collecting in the drain pipe and disposal chamber. Boiling water once a month or more will prevent waste buildup and keep your disposal running well.
Tip Three – Get Your Garbage Disposal Repaired
If your disposal is not operating properly, get it repaired quickly. Too often homeowners continue using their disposal after hearing a weird sound or feeling an odd vibration. This creates an opportunity for damage to occur or become greater than if a repair had been done immediately. Larger breakdowns often mean larger repair bills or even require a replacement garbage disposal.
If you have any questions about your Middleton WI garbage disposal, call or email the garbage disposal pros at Sauk Plains Plumbing and Pump. We’ll be happy to assist you. In addition to serving Middleton WI, we serve Cross Plains, Waunakee, Black Earth, Mount Horeb, Verona and western Dane County.
We are ready to help with garbage disposal service and installations in Middleton WI.
