Posted on by Rodeo Realty Media Team

Garbage Disposal Do’s and Dont’s

Of all the modern machines that have made our lives at home a little easier, Garbage Disposals top the list. Or somewhere in between. Our sinks conveniently efficient friend makes food disposal a cinch. That is until they stop working. Rather than dial the number to your local plumber, check out these easy tips below to keep your Garbage Disposal in working order and your money in your wallet.

Run Cold Water

Always run cold (never warm or hot) water with each use of the disposal; hot water will dissolve fat and grease — as the water flows down the pipes, it starts to cool and a film of grease begins to build on the inside of the pipes, leading to a clog.

Avoid Fibrous Foods

Avoid putting fibrous foods, such as cornhusks, artichokes, rhubarb, and celery, in the disposal; they can cause jamming.

Don’t Let Food Sit

Run the disposal each time you place food in it; food left sitting in a garbage disposal will cause odor.

Don’t Cram it With Waste

Insert food waste loosely; never crowd it or jam it into the disposal. If you overload the disposal, it will stall. Most are equipped with overload protectors, however, to prevent the motor from getting damaged.

Know When to Recycle Instead

The disposal is for food waste only; never use it for materials like paper, plastic, or metal, or harsh chemicals such as lye or drain-pipe cleaners.

Know When to Recycle Instead

The disposal is for food waste only; never use it for materials like paper, plastic, or metal, or harsh chemicals such as lye or drain-pipe cleaners.

Process Small Bones and Fruit Pits

Some hard materials, including small bones and fruit pits, can be processed; in fact, this is often recommended, as it creates a scouring action inside the grinding chamber that keeps it clean and fresh. Large bones should not be placed in the disposal, however.

Deodorize it Regularly

A properly cared for garbage disposal should stay clean, but you can always freshen and deodorize it by grinding citrus peels or vinegar ice cubes in i

Is It Clogged?

Follow these steps: First, turn the power switch to the off position and disconnect the power at the main fuse or circuit breaker. Next, remove the stopper or the splash guard. Check the interior of the hopper using a flashlight if necessary, for objects that will not grind properly, such as glass or metal, shells, large bones, plastic, or aluminum. Use long-handled tongs to remove any such objects. Never put your hand into the disposal. Once you’ve safely removed the obstruction, turn the power on and reset the button on the disposal unit. Flush the disposal well with cold water.

Content Sourced from: Martha Stewart Living
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