It may seem simple enough, but there are a few key things to avoid when using a garbage disposal. With one minuscule scrap, you could put your disposal at risk.

Treat your disposal with kindness by using these preventative measures:

Don’t Overload Your Garbage Disposal 

The key is not to overload the drain. Dispose of food in small increments, leaving the large items or sticky, fibrous foods for the trash. A good way to avoid clogs this way is to run cold water in tandem with the disposal. This will help break down the small amount you’re disposing of.

Never Put Hard, Starchy, or Fibrous Foods Down the Disposal Dispose of Fat, Oil, and Grease Properly  

This remains the universal rule for garbage disposals. Avoid draining hard, starchy, or fibrous foods down the disposal. These foods are normally coated in oil or grease, a substance that can coagulate in your drain pipe.

Remember to be careful about this during the holiday season. Large dinners require large amounts of garbage removal, so it’s best to monitor what goes in and out of your disposal.

Just Add Water

You want to make sure there’s always a liquid present when you’re using the disposal. As previously mentioned, it helps to run water down the drain. Adding moisture will keep food moving through the disposal and down the drain, minimizing clogs.

Avoid Hot Water  

Always use cold water when operating the disposal. Hot water can cause food to clump together, leading to immediate blockages. The objective is to effectively rinse food from the disposal, not to help it stick.

Additionally, if you pour grease down the drain, hot water will cause it to adhere to the pipes.

Don’t Let the Disposal Sit Idle

Like most machines, if you leave them idle for too long they deteriorate. Rust will form on the blades from inaction, making it harder to break down food.

Use your disposal a few times a week to keep it in full working condition. Even if it’s a small amount, this way effectively preserves your home disposal.

Routinely Clean the Disposal

Natural or with a chemical solution, clean your disposal regularly. Not only will this remove any developing odors, but it will maintain the overall cleanliness of your kitchen. Dirty disposals can create a rotting smell that lingers if not properly cleaned.

For an easy natural cleaning solution, combine baking soda and vinegar. Pour a half cup of baking soda down the drain, let it sit, then follow with a cup of vinegar. This should eliminate odors indefinitely.

Searching for emergency plumbing services near you? Home Comfort Experts has the answers. We proudly serve homeowners throughout Northern Indiana and Southwestern Michigan with high-quality plumbing solutions they can trust. Contact our team near you to schedule the services you need.