How to Maintain Your Garbage Disposal for Long Life

Garbage disposals are essential kitchen appliances that help break down food waste, keeping your sink clean and odor-free. However, like any other device, they need proper care to function well for years. With regular maintenance and the right practices, you can avoid costly repairs and extend the life of your garbage disposal. If you’re unsure about maintenance steps, reliable plumber services can provide professional assistance.

1. Run It Regularly

One of the simplest ways to maintain your garbage disposal is to use it often. Running the disposal regularly prevents rust and corrosion while also ensuring that all parts keep moving smoothly. Even if you don’t have food to grind, running it with cold water for a minute can help keep the system in good shape.

2. Use Cold Water When Operating

Always use cold water to run your garbage disposal. Cold water helps solidify grease and oils, making it easier for the disposal to chop them up and flush them out. Hot water, on the other hand, can melt grease, causing it to stick to the blades and pipes, eventually leading to clogs. If you notice slow drainage or unusual noises, calling plumber services can help address the issue before it worsens.

3. Avoid Hard and Fibrous Foods

Certain types of food can damage your garbage disposal. Avoid grinding hard items like bones, fruit pits, or seafood shells as they can dull the blades. Fibrous foods such as celery, corn husks, and onion skins can wrap around the blades, causing blockages. Sticking to soft food waste ensures the longevity of your disposal. If you accidentally drop such items in, consider using plumber services for safe removal.

4. Clean the Disposal Regularly

Regular cleaning helps eliminate odors and keeps the garbage disposal functioning efficiently. An easy cleaning method is to use a mix of ice cubes and rock salt. Running this mixture through the disposal helps clean the blades and remove built-up grease. For a fresh smell, toss in some citrus peels like lemon or orange. If the smell persists, it might be time to consult plumber services for a deep clean.

5. Avoid Overloading the Disposal

Overloading the garbage disposal with too much food at once can strain the motor and cause it to jam. Feed food waste gradually while running cold water to prevent overwhelming the system. If the disposal does jam, turn it off and use the reset button located at the bottom. If this doesn’t work, contacting plumber services can ensure the issue is safely resolved.

6. Use Baking Soda and Vinegar for Deodorizing

Over time, your garbage disposal may develop unpleasant smells. A mixture of baking soda and vinegar can help. Pour half a cup of baking soda and half a cup of vinegar into the disposal. Let it sit for a few minutes before flushing it out with cold water. This natural solution is effective in keeping your disposal fresh without the need for harsh chemicals.

7. Know When to Call a Professional

Despite regular maintenance, some issues may require professional help. Persistent clogs, leaks, or unusual noises are signs that you need expert assistance. Trusted plumber services can diagnose and fix these problems, preventing further damage and saving you from expensive repairs.

Maintaining your garbage disposal doesn’t have to be difficult. By following these simple steps and knowing when to call plumber services, you can keep your disposal running efficiently for years to come.