How to Maintain a Garbage Disposal Unit

Try to avoid shredding food with hard shells or bones.

Waste disposers are an efficient way to keep a kitchen free of rotten smells that may be collected in the bottom of the garbage can or refrigerator. A waste disposal unit sits comfortably below the sink, shredding food to pass through plumbing. Although a waste disposer may appear unbeatable at first, there are specific steps every homeowner must take to ensure their unit is properly maintained.

Keep out hard objects

Try to avoid shredding food with hard shells or bones. These items can dull the shredder and make it less effective. Small hard objects are also risky as they can become stuck and jam the unit's rotating parts. Each waste disposer has its own capacity for hard objects, varying by model and brand. Check the instruction manual for specific objects to avoid. Common harmful items include hard shells from shrimp, crab, and other shellfish, unpopped popcorn kernels, and tough bones.

Avoid fibrous and starchy items

Fibrous and starchy items can cause stubborn drain blockages, as fibers becomes tangled, and starches can cause blockages. Items such as banana peels, celery, potato peelings, corn husk or cobs, artichokes, coffee grounds, fruit pits and hard seeds, onion skins, and egg shells should be disposed of in minimal increments and preferably cut into small pieces or avoided altogether. Instead, all of these items can be easily composted.

Run cold water while the disposal is on

Keep the disposer and water running for 30 to 60 seconds after the waste matter clears the drain. The waste is still far away, and cold water keeps the motor, bearings, and shredder from overheating. The water also helps push down the waste. Do not use hot water because it can melt fat and allow it to re-solidify further down the drain as a blockage.

Clean the unit regularly

Wipe down the inside of the rubber in the sink's center with a paper towel often, carefully ensuring the unit is turned off first. When running the unit, turn on the cold water and throw some ice down the drain frequently to remove debris buildup. Make special cleansing ice cubes from pure lemon juice or vinegar for even better results. Also, periodically dispose of slices of orange peels or citrus rinds to keep the disposal smelling fresh.

A garbage disposal unit is convenient and powerful; however, like any machine, it must be adequately maintained to avoid mechanical issues. Remember these tips to ensure a clean and efficient garbage disposal unit.

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