What Not to Put Down a Garbage Disposal? Protecting Your Plumbing and Your Wallet
The lifespan of your garbage disposal and the health of your plumbing depend heavily on what you put into it. Never dispose of fibrous materials, fats, oils, and grease (FOG) down the drain. These items cause clogs, damage the motor, and lead to expensive plumbing repairs.
Understanding Your Garbage Disposal: A Vital Kitchen Appliance
The garbage disposal is a convenient kitchen appliance designed to grind up food scraps, preventing them from accumulating in your trash can and reducing odors. However, it’s not a substitute for proper waste disposal. Misusing your disposal by putting the wrong things down it can lead to costly repairs, plumbing nightmares, and even environmental issues. Knowing what not to put down the drain is crucial for maintaining a healthy and efficient kitchen.
The Dangers of Common Garbage Disposal Mistakes
Many homeowners unknowingly damage their garbage disposals by treating them like a magical bottomless pit. Understanding the types of materials that cause problems is the first step in preventing these issues. Ignorance is not bliss when it comes to garbage disposals; it’s an invitation for plumbing emergencies.
Key Items to Avoid: A Comprehensive List
Here’s a detailed list of what should never go down your garbage disposal:
- Fats, Oils, and Grease (FOG): These solidify in pipes, causing clogs.
- Fibrous Foods: Celery, asparagus, corn husks, and onion skins tangle around the blades and cause jams.
- Starchy Foods: Pasta, rice, and potatoes expand in water, creating a thick paste that clogs drains.
- Bones: Even small bones can damage the blades.
- Coffee Grounds: While often debated, coffee grounds can accumulate and cause blockages over time.
- Eggshells: The membrane inside eggshells can wrap around the disposal’s components.
- Fruit Pits and Seeds: Too hard to be ground effectively; they can damage the blades.
- Shellfish Shells: These are very hard and can damage the motor and blades.
- Paper Products: Paper towels, napkins, and other paper products don’t break down easily and can cause clogs.
- Non-Food Items: Plastic, metal, glass, and other non-food items can severely damage the disposal.
- Large Quantities of Food: Overloading the disposal can strain the motor and lead to overheating.
The Alternative: Proper Waste Disposal Methods
Instead of relying on the garbage disposal for everything, consider these alternatives:
- Composting: A great way to reduce food waste and create nutrient-rich soil for your garden. Many communities offer composting programs or you can compost at home.
- Trash Can: For items that can’t be composted or disposed of down the disposal, use your trash can.
- Grease Recycling: Some communities offer grease recycling programs. Check with your local waste management services.
- Separate Collection for Certain Items: Check for options such as hazardous waste collection for items like cooking oil.
Troubleshooting: Dealing with a Clogged Disposal
If your disposal is already clogged, try these troubleshooting steps:
- Turn off the power. Always disconnect the power to the disposal before attempting any repairs.
- Check for obstructions. Use tongs or pliers to remove any visible obstructions.
- Use a plunger. A sink plunger can often dislodge minor clogs.
- Flush with hot water. After removing any obstructions, run hot water into the disposal for a few minutes.
- Use a garbage disposal wrench. This tool is designed to manually turn the disposal blades and dislodge stubborn clogs.
If these steps don’t work, you may need to call a professional plumber.
Benefits of Proper Garbage Disposal Use
By following these guidelines, you can reap several benefits:
- Extended lifespan of your garbage disposal: Less wear and tear on the motor and blades.
- Reduced plumbing problems: Fewer clogs and backups in your drains.
- Lower repair costs: Avoid expensive plumbing repairs.
- Environmentally responsible: Reduced strain on wastewater treatment systems.
- Improved kitchen hygiene: Less food waste in your trash can, reducing odors.
Garbage Disposal Maintenance Tips
- Run cold water: Always run cold water when operating the disposal to help solidify grease and flush it down the drain.
- Regular Cleaning: Grind ice cubes with citrus peels (lemon, lime, or orange) to help clean and freshen the disposal.
- Use Disposal Cleaners: Consider using commercial garbage disposal cleaners periodically to break down grease and prevent odors.
- Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Never pour harsh chemicals like bleach or drain cleaner into your disposal, as they can damage the components.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I put small amounts of meat down the garbage disposal?
While small amounts of finely chopped meat might seem harmless, they can still contribute to clogs over time, especially if combined with fats and grease. It’s generally best to avoid putting any meat down the disposal and opt for composting or the trash can instead.
What about coffee grounds? I’ve heard conflicting advice.
The debate around coffee grounds continues. While some believe small amounts are okay, over time, coffee grounds can accumulate in your pipes and create a thick, sludge-like substance that leads to blockages. It’s safer to compost them or dispose of them in the trash.
Is it okay to put citrus peels down the garbage disposal to freshen it?
Yes! Citrus peels are actually beneficial for your garbage disposal. The natural oils in the peels help to break down grease and freshen the disposal’s odor. Run the disposal with cold water and a few citrus peels for a quick and easy cleaning.
Can I put potato peels down the garbage disposal?
Potato peels are highly starchy and can create a thick paste in your pipes, leading to clogs. It’s best to avoid putting potato peels down the garbage disposal. Consider composting them instead.
What if I accidentally drop a small piece of glass or metal down the disposal?
Immediately turn off the power to the disposal. Carefully remove the object using tongs or pliers. Do not attempt to grind it, as this can damage the blades and potentially cause injury.
How often should I clean my garbage disposal?
You should clean your garbage disposal at least once a month to prevent odors and buildup. More frequent cleaning may be necessary if you use your disposal frequently.
Is it safe to use liquid drain cleaner in my garbage disposal if it’s clogged?
Never use liquid drain cleaner in your garbage disposal. These chemicals can damage the disposal’s components and may also react dangerously with any remaining food waste.
What’s the best way to dispose of cooking oil?
Allow cooking oil to cool completely, then pour it into a sealed container (like an old jar or bottle) and dispose of it in the trash. Some communities offer grease recycling programs; check with your local waste management services.
Will running cold water really help prevent clogs?
Yes, running cold water is crucial. Cold water helps to solidify grease and other fats, allowing them to be more easily flushed down the drain before they can adhere to the pipes.
What should I do if my garbage disposal is making a loud noise?
If your garbage disposal is making a loud noise, immediately turn it off. The noise is likely caused by an obstruction. Follow the troubleshooting steps mentioned earlier to remove any debris. If the noise persists, contact a plumber.
Can I put small quantities of bread down the disposal?
Like pasta and rice, bread expands when wet, creating a sticky paste that can clog drains. Avoid putting bread down the garbage disposal.
Does a garbage disposal need professional maintenance?
While routine cleaning and proper usage are generally sufficient, annual inspections by a plumber can identify potential issues before they become major problems. A plumber can also check the disposal’s wiring and connections to ensure safety.