A garbage disposal is a convenient amenity in the kitchen, allowing efficient cleaning while promoting less waste. To get the most out of your garbage disposal, it is important to properly maintain it to ensure that it works smoothly every time. In this blog, we will first give you some tips on maintaining your garbage disposal and then give you instructions on how to clean it. Read on to learn how to prevent instances of your garbage disposal not working in your kitchen.
Garbage Disposal Tips
So is there really a proper way to care for a garbage disposal? Though it is a rather simple process, it is a very important one. Follow these tips to keep your unit working without a hitch.
Read the Manual
The best way to ensure proper use of your garbage disposal is to read the manual provided by the manufacturer. This manual will show you how to operate and clean it according to its design. If you don’t have the manual, you can locate its copy online by searching for the manufacturer’s name, the words “garbage disposal”, and its serial number.
Use It Regularly
This may be a surprising tip, but to maintain the garbage disposal, you must use it regularly. This prevents rust and corrosion from building up on its components. The more rust and corrosion, the more potential there is for clogs.
Use Cold Water
Another great tip we offer to our customers who complain that their garbage disposal is not working is to use cold water when operating the unit. Cold water solidifies oils and fats, making it easier for the garbage disposal to break it apart.
Cut Items Into Smaller Pieces
Help the garbage disposal by cutting stuff into smaller, manageable pieces for the disposal to chop up. This prevents clogs and extra strain on the motor and blades.
Avoid Hard Materials
Hard materials like chicken bones and glass are hard for the disposal to chop up. Therefore, avoid flushing them down the drain as they will dull the blades and wear out the motor.
Avoid Fibrous or Starchy Materials
Fibrous materials like celery, corn husks, and artichokes can wrap around the blades and cause clogs. Starchy foods like pasta and rice can expand when exposed to water and lead to blockages. Do your best to minimize the amount of such materials you putflush down into the disposal.
How To Clean Your Garbage Disposal
One of the best things you can do as a homeowner is to learn to clean your disposal. A lack of cleaning is often the cause of the garbage disposal not working. Here are steps for you to follow when it is time for you to clean your disposal unit:
1. Disconnect Power Supply
First, begin by disconnecting the power supply to the garbage disposal. This prevents any accidental situations of being cut by the disposal’s blades.
2. Remove Visible Debris
Next, use your tongs or pliers to remove any visible debris from the disposal. You should never put your hand into a garbage disposal. Even when off, the sharp blades can cut you.
3. Create a Cleaning Solution
With any visible debris removed, create a cleaning solution that will further clean the disposal. A good cleaning solution is equal parts vinegar and baking soda. Pour it into the drain and allow it to sit for a few minutes. The fizzing action will break down any stubborn residue or caked-on debris.
4. Scrub the Disposal
Use a scrub brush or an old toothbrush to scrub the visible parts of the disposal, including the rubber flaps and the top of the disposal unit. Be gentle and avoid excessive force to prevent damage.
5. Flush With Water & Reconnect the Power Supply
After allowing the solution to sit in the disposal for several minutes, flush it out with cold water. Restore the power supply to the disposal and let it run for a few seconds. This will help remove any dirt and food particles that are stuck in the disposal.
6. Freshen With Citrus
To refresh the scent of your sink, you can also throw a few citrus peels down into the disposal and turn it on. It will grind up the citrus and eliminate any odors from the sink.
Is Your Garbage Disposal Not Working?
If you find yourself in a situation where your garbage disposal is not working, call One Source for a quick and quality resolutionto your problems. Our plumbers will restore your kitchen to order in no time.
