Garbage Disposals

Many of our plumbing service calls involve problems related to garbage disposals. Models that are broken, damaged or clogged because of incorrect use disrupt kitchens across Glendora on a weekly basis. But most of these issues could be avoided altogether if homeowners were more careful of their disposal usage. Though there are dozens of models on the market, the basic design remains the same for all: a spinning metal plate of metal impellers uses centrifugal force to grind food waste washed into it. The waste is quickly broken down and washed away through the connected wastewater pipe. Though the durable design can handle a variety of organic debris, its name “garbage disposal” often gives the false impression that all garbage can be thrown inside and disposed.

After Accurate Electric, Plumbing, Heating, and Air has installed your new garbage disposal, here are some tip for keeping it running efficiently:

• Running Water: The garbage disposal was made to work with running water. Before you turn the unit on, make sure that water is running. After you have finished using it, keep the water running at least 15 seconds more to ensure all the debris is flushed away.
• Use Cold Water: Only use cold water to grind the food waste and wash it away. Cold water helps to solidify any grease that has collected on the impellers, making it easier to wash it away.
• Small Portions: Make sure not to overload the disposal, which can easily clog if too much debris is added at one time. Put small portions of waste into the disposal slowly. Wait until you hear the food clear from the unit before you add the next portion.
• Non-Organic Debris: Your disposal is only meant for the small amounts of food debris. But some people use it as a trash can, which is the number one reason they break down. Paper, plastic, glass or metal will damage the blades and motor, not to mention clog up your pipes.
• Odor Prevention: Garbage disposals are notorious for keeping the bad odors of the food waste. This can be prevented by grinding up pieces of lemons and ice cubes after use. You can also freeze vinegar in ice cube trays and run them through the disposal, which will help kill the bacteria that causes the odors.
• Fibrous Food: Celery, onion skin, corn, broccoli, beans and other fibrous foods can jam the disposal. Throw fibrous debris in the trash – or the compost pile. Also egg shells and coffee grounds might work in the disposal, but they can stop up the plumbing. Add those to the compost pile as well.
• Cleaning: After using the disposal, turn in the faucet and pour a small amount of dish soap into the unit. Run the disposal again and let it run for a few seconds. This will help to keep it clean and cut down on lingering odors.