Having a garbage disposal in your home is a highly convenient means of getting rid of organic waste. However, to ensure you get as much use out of the plumbing fixture as possible, you must use it correctly. While you can always call a plumber when repairs are necessary, there are steps you can take to prevent damage in the first place. 

How to Keep Your Garbage Disposal Running

1. Avoid Grinding Certain Foods

Dense and brittle foods, such as bones, seeds, or fruit pits, can damage impellers. They can also get stuck in the blades. Other foods, including pasta, expand when exposed to water, which leads to clogs. Dispose of these items in the trash and not the disposal for the best results.

Greases, fats, and oils are also problematic since they may get sent down the drain as liquids but then solidify. Soak these substances up with a paper towel that you can toss in the trash. 

2. Use Cold Water When Grinding

Run cold water when your disposal is turned on as it will wash down remnants efficiently. Hot water causes some foods to congeal. When this happens, there is a greater chance that the organic matter will become stuck in the blades, which will prevent future items from being ground up fully.

3. Clean the Disposal Twice a Month

There are many natural methods you can use to clean your disposal. Mixing a cup of vinegar and a half-cup of baking soda creates a natural anti-bacterial reaction. To remove built-up food debris lingering in the system, grind up a mix of ice cubes and rock salt. This combo is also suitable for sharpening interior blades for more efficient grinding action. If you’re concerned about foul odors, grind up a few lemon wedges, including the peel. 

Whether you’re experiencing a clogged drain or finding that your disposal isn’t operating as efficiently as it should be, call a plumber from Wild West Plumbing, Heating & Drain Service. A family-owned and -operated company, they service a 35-mile radius around Kalispell, MT. All work is backed by a two-year guarantee, so you can expect quality results. If you need assistance, call (406) 752-1244 to schedule an appointment with a plumber. You can also learn more about their services online.