Garbage disposals are a convenient and efficient way to dispose of food waste in your kitchen. However, like any other appliance, they require regular maintenance to ensure they continue to function properly. In this guide, we will discuss the essential steps for maintaining your garbage disposal and keeping it in top condition.
Tulsa Plumbers Garbage Disposal Maintenance
Brandon Brown
Understanding the Parts of Your Garbage Disposal
Before we dive into maintenance tips, it's important to understand the different parts of your garbage disposal. The main components include the motor, shredder ring, impellers, and flywheel.
The motor powers the shredder ring, which breaks down food waste into smaller pieces. The impellers move the waste through the pipe, and the flywheel helps everything run smoothly. Spot On Plumbing of Tulsa Plumbers can help with emergency plumbing.
Regular Cleaning
One of the most important maintenance tasks for your garbage disposal is regular cleaning. This will help prevent any buildup of food particles and keep your disposal smelling fresh. To clean your disposal, pour a mixture of ice cubes and rock salt into the unit and run it for a few seconds. This will help to dislodge any debris and clean the blades. You can also use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to eliminate any odors. Spot On Plumbing has maintenance memberships that help you maintain basic tulsa plumbing systems.
Avoid Putting Certain Foods Down the Disposal
While garbage disposals are designed to handle most food waste, there are some items that should never be put down the drain. These include bones, fruit pits, grease, and fibrous foods like celery and corn husks. These items can damage the blades and clog the drain, leading to costly repairs. It's best to dispose of these items in the trash or compost them instead. If you do have a clogged drain please call Spot On Plumbing of Tulsa Plumbers to help you with all your drain cleaning needs.
Use Cold Water When Running the Disposal
When using your garbage disposal, it's important to run cold water instead of hot. Cold water helps to solidify any grease or oil that may have made its way into the disposal, making it easier to break down and flush out. Hot water, on the other hand, can melt these substances and cause them to stick to the blades, leading to clogs and unpleasant odors
Check for Leaks
Leaks can be a sign of a more significant issue with your garbage disposal. To check for water leaks, place a few drops of food coloring into the disposal and let it sit for a few minutes. If you see the colored water in your sink, it's a sign of a leak. In this case, it's best to call a Tulsa Plumbing professional to inspect and repair the disposal.
Install an Air Switch
An air switch is a convenient and safe way to turn your garbage disposal on and off. It eliminates the need for a traditional wall switch, which can be a safety hazard in a wet environment. An air switch uses air pressure to activate the disposal, making it a safer and more convenient option.
By following these maintenance tips, you can ensure that your garbage disposal continues to function properly and efficiently. Remember to always use caution when working with your disposal and call a professional if you encounter any issues. With proper maintenance, your garbage disposal can last for many years to come.