Your garbage disposal is a convenient kitchen appliance that helps manage food waste efficiently. Proper maintenance of your garbage disposal ensures it runs smoothly and lasts longer. In this blog, we’ll provide you with essential tips and tricks to maintain your garbage disposal like a pro.
Understanding Your Garbage Disposal
How It Works
A garbage disposal unit is installed under your kitchen sink, between the sink’s drain and the trap. It grinds food waste into smaller particles that can easily pass through plumbing. When you turn on the disposal, the impellers spin at high speed, forcing food waste against a stationary grind ring, which grinds the food into fine particles. These particles are then flushed down the drain with water.
Key Components
To maintain your garbage disposal, it’s important to understand its key components:
- Impellers: These are metal or plastic blades that spin to grind the food waste.
- Grind Ring: A stationary ring that grinds the food into small particles.
- Motor: Powers the impellers.
- Splash Guard: Prevents food particles and water from splashing out.
Daily Maintenance Tips
Proper Usage
To keep your garbage disposal in top shape, use it correctly. Here are some do’s and don’ts:
Do’s:
- Cut large food waste into smaller pieces before disposal.
- Run the disposal frequently to prevent rust and corrosion.
- Use cold water when running the disposal to solidify any grease or oils.
Don’ts:
- Avoid putting fibrous foods like celery, corn husks, and artichokes in the disposal as they can tangle around the blades.
- Don’t dispose of starchy foods like pasta and rice as they can expand and clog the drain.
- Never pour grease, oil, or fat down the disposal as they can solidify and cause blockages.
Running Water
Running water is crucial for the proper functioning of your garbage disposal. Always run cold water before, during, and after using the disposal. Cold water helps solidify any grease or fat, making it easier for the disposal to grind them up and flush them away. Continue running the water for about 15 seconds after turning off the disposal to ensure all particles are flushed out.
Routine Cleaning
Natural Cleaning Methods
Regular cleaning is essential to maintain your garbage disposal and keep it odor-free. Here are some natural cleaning methods:
- Ice Cubes and Salt: Pour a few ice cubes and a handful of coarse salt into the disposal. Turn on the disposal and run cold water. The ice helps sharpen the blades while the salt scrubs away grime and debris.
- Baking Soda and Vinegar: Pour half a cup of baking soda into the disposal, followed by one cup of vinegar. Let the mixture fizz for a few minutes, then rinse with hot water. This combination helps break down food particles and eliminate odors.
Commercial Cleaners
If you prefer commercial cleaners, there are many products available specifically designed for garbage disposals. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to use these products safely and effectively. Regular use of these cleaners can help keep your disposal clean and fresh.
Dealing with Odors
Preventing Bad Smells
Preventing odors is easier than eliminating them. Here are some tips to keep your garbage disposal smelling fresh:
- Citrus Peels: Grind citrus peels, such as lemon or orange, in the disposal. The natural oils help deodorize and leave a fresh scent.
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your disposal regularly using the methods mentioned above to prevent the buildup of food particles and odors.
Removing Existing Odors
If your garbage disposal already has a bad smell, try these methods to eliminate it:
- Borax: Sprinkle a few tablespoons of borax into the disposal, let it sit for an hour, then rinse with hot water. Borax is a natural cleaner that helps eliminate odors.
- Vinegar Ice Cubes: Freeze vinegar in an ice cube tray. Grind the vinegar ice cubes in the disposal to remove odors and clean the blades.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Jams and Clogs
Jams and clogs are common issues with garbage disposals. Here’s how to handle them:
- Clearing Jams: Turn off the disposal and unplug it from the power source. Use a hex wrench to manually rotate the motor shaft from below the unit to dislodge the jam. Alternatively, use a wooden spoon to gently move the impellers.
- Preventing Future Jams: Avoid putting large, hard items like bones and pits in the disposal. Regularly grind small bones and ice cubes to help clean the blades.
Slow Draining
Slow drainage can be caused by clogs in the pipes or buildup in the disposal. Here’s what you can do:
- Cleaning the Pipes: Use a plumber’s snake or a similar tool to clear clogs in the pipes.
- Cleaning the Disposal: Follow the routine cleaning methods mentioned earlier to remove buildup inside the disposal.
When to Call a Professional
Signs of Serious Problems
While many maintenance tasks can be done yourself, some issues require professional help. Here are some signs that it’s time to call a professional:
- Persistent clogs or jams that you can’t clear.
- Unusual noises like grinding or humming.
- Water leaks from the disposal unit or sink area.
- Frequent resetting of the disposal.
Regular Professional Maintenance
Scheduling regular check-ups with a professional can help prevent major issues and extend the life of your garbage disposal. A professional can inspect the unit, clean hard-to-reach areas, and ensure everything is functioning correctly.
Conclusion
Maintaining your garbage disposal is crucial for its longevity and efficiency. By following these tips and performing regular maintenance, you can keep your disposal running smoothly and avoid costly repairs. Remember, proper usage, routine cleaning, and timely troubleshooting are key to maintaining your garbage disposal like a pro.
At AC by J, we offer professional maintenance and repair services for garbage disposals. Our experienced technicians can help with any issues and provide expert advice on keeping your disposal in top condition.
Contact us today to schedule a service appointment and ensure your garbage disposal is always in great shape.
