Caring for your garbage disposal involves regular maintenance, proper usage, and prompt attention to issues. Here's a comprehensive guide to keep your disposal running smoothly:
Routine Maintenance
- Clean Regularly: Run cold water while dropping in a few citrus peels (lemon, lime, or orange) or ice cubes to freshen the disposal and dislodge buildup.
- Grind Ice: Periodically grinding ice cubes helps sharpen the blades and remove debris.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Don't use bleach or drain cleaners, as they can damage the disposal's components and plumbing. Instead, use natural cleaning methods like vinegar and baking soda.
Proper Usage
- Use Cold Water: Always run cold water before, during, and after using the disposal. Cold water solidifies grease, allowing it to be ground into smaller particles and flushed away more easily.
- Cut Food into Small Pieces: Large pieces of food can overload the disposal and cause jams.
- Don't Overfill: Feed food scraps gradually to avoid overloading the motor.
- Run Regularly: Running the disposal regularly, even if you don't have food scraps to grind, helps prevent corrosion and keeps the motor lubricated.
What NOT to Put Down the Disposal
- Grease, Oil, and Fat: These solidify in the drainpipes, causing clogs.
- Coffee Grounds: Can accumulate and form a sludge that clogs pipes.
- Pasta and Rice: These expand with water and can create a sticky mess.
- Bones and Hard Seeds: Too hard for the disposal to grind and can damage the blades.
- Eggshells: The membrane can wrap around the shredder plate and cause problems.
- Fibrous Foods (Celery, Corn Husks, Onion Skins): These can wrap around the motor and cause jams.
- Non-Food Items (Glass, Metal, Plastic): Obvious, but worth mentioning!
Dealing with Jams and Clogs
- Turn Off the Power: Always disconnect the power to the disposal at the circuit breaker before attempting to remove a jam.
- Use Tongs or Pliers: Remove any visible obstructions with tongs or pliers.
- Manual Reset: Most disposals have a reset button on the bottom. Press it to restart the motor after clearing the jam.
- Manual Rotation: If the reset button doesn't work, use an Allen wrench to manually rotate the motor shaft from the bottom of the unit. This can help dislodge stubborn obstructions.
Addressing Other Issues
- Strange Noises: Investigate unusual noises promptly. They could indicate a loose object or a more serious problem.
- Leaks: Check for leaks around the disposal and its connections. Tighten loose connections or replace worn-out parts.
- Disposal Stops Working: Check the circuit breaker, reset button, and for any obstructions. If it still doesn't work, consult a professional.
By following these guidelines, you can extend the life of your garbage disposal and avoid costly repairs.
