Garbage disposals are found in many kitchens across New England – and to some, they are a necessity in the home. To get the most out of your current garbage disposal, and to keep it running in its best condition, there are many small steps you can take to prevent a replacement of your current garbage disposal.
What Can’t You Put in Your Garbage Disposal?
There are many misconceptions about what you can and can’t put into your garbage disposal.
Foods that expand. This consists of pasta, rice, and oatmeal. When these are placed down the disposal, they can sit in water and expand in your pipes. This often leads to clogs and the need for immediate assistance.
Foods with membranes. This specifically pertains to onions and eggs. Right under the onion’s first layer and right under the egg’s shell is a translucent membrane that can get stuck in your garbage disposal’s blades.
Foods that can get caught. Potato peels, pumpkin, coffee grounds, celery, and poultry skin are all examples of foods that can wrap around your garbage disposal blades. These foods are best saved for compost.
Hard foods, or foods that harden. Garbage disposals do have sharp blades – but they can’t be used as an axel grinder. Bones and fruit pits are two prime examples of foods that garbage disposal blades are not equipped to handle. This also applies to grease and fat.
Chemicals and paint. Only chemicals that are suited for the drain should go down the garbage disposal – they get in contact with the water supply. This also goes for unused medications, which are best saved for a pharmacy. Paint is acceptable only if heavily diluted – it could cling to the side of your garbage disposal or sit in your pipe, causing many issues down the road.
What Can You Put In Your Garbage Disposal?
There is a common rule of thumb – if it’s safe for a baby, it’s safe for the garbage disposal. This includes most liquids and soft foods.
Veggies scraps are acceptable if they are chopped up finely. Ice can be used to knock excess food off garbage disposal blades and give a fresh scent when frozen with lemon juice, vinegar, or other biodegradable cleansers. Chopped up lemon peels get the job done, as well.
Basic Tips
Basic preventative care is the best way to avoid a major overhaul.
Always clear the sink of dishes before running the garbage disposal to exclude the risk of catching utensils in the blades. Be sure to have a separate catch for grease and fat and run cold water for twenty seconds before and after using it.
Still feel like it’s time to replace your garbage disposal – or just want to add one to your kitchen? Give the team at Daigle Plumbing, Heating & Cooling a call when you’re ready to get started.
About Daigle Plumbing, Heating & Cooling,
Founded over 40 years ago, Daigle Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is family-owned and operated by the Daigle family. We are proud to provide quality, dependable plumbing, heating, and cooling services for our customers in Derry, NH, and the surrounding areas. Daigle Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is your partner for all your plumbing, heating, and cooling needs. Call us today at 603-434-6353 for a free estimate.
