If you have a garbage disposal in your kitchen, you know that it’s a handy appliance that proves most useful during daily food cleanup. However, if not cared for properly, it can be quite vulnerable to many problems. Here are five helpful practices that can keep your disposal running as long as possible:
1) Stay Away from Fibers– Food items that are high in fiber can surprisingly become tangled in the disposals impellers. Once the garbage disposal is prevented from spinning, it most always results in damage to the motor. To eliminate permanent damage, any fibrous items should be thrown in compost or completely tossed away.
2) Regular Use– By frequently using your garbage disposal, you can eliminate the existence of rust and corrosion to the machine. However, it’s just as important to make sure you don’t overwork the machine. Using your garbage disposal one to two times a day is considered completely safe, and prevents any obstructions within the machine to start collecting.
3) Running Water Before/During/After Use– If you ask any one of our specialists at Las Vegas Rooter, they will tell you it is important to keep in mind that garbage disposals are made to run wet, not dry. This helps in the process of grinding down food particles. By keeping the water running for a few seconds after the disposal is turned off, it will help wash out any excess food from your pipes.
4) Boiling Water– Once a month, it is suggested to pour boiling water down your garbage disposal. Make sure the disposal is off, as it’s made to work best with running cold water. Boiling water will both disinfect, and clear out any leftover food that may be stuck within its walls prior to running the disposal again.
5) Odor Control– Grinding peels from various fruits, such as lemons, should also help with any unwanted drain smells. Doing so will also help clean up the unit.
If for any reason you find that your garbage disposal stops grinding, keep in mind that most issues are fixed in a cinch by pressing the reset button on or around the motor (located under the sink). Also, be sure to check all power sources to make sure it’s still plugged in.
If you still find yourself with any issues, contact Las Vegas Rooter. We have the knowledge and tools to repair any and all garbage disposal problems you may have!