Proper maintenance and operation will extend the life of your garbage disposal and prevent drain and sink backups. It is important to run your disposal at least once weekly, even if you have nothing to grind. If you do not run your garbage disposal regularly many different problems can occur, such as the disposal blades sticking and bad smells coming from the disposal and drain. Learn the best way to use your garbage disposal by following the steps below.
How to Properly Use a Garbage Disposal
- 1. Begin by collecting your food pieces in the sink base away from the disposal
- 2. Run a strong flow of COLD water into the disposal (for about 5 seconds)
- 3. Turn on the disposal
- 4. Using a kitchen utensil, push a small amount of food into the garbage disposal,
wait to hear the grinding stop before adding more - 5. Once sink base is clear of waste, continue running water for about 5 seconds
- 6. Turn off the disposal and continue running water another 10 seconds to ensure
all particles are flushed through the disposal and drain pipes. - 7. Now turn off the water
The Best Way to Clean a Garbage Disposal
You can extend the life of your kitchen disposal by cleaning it 1-2 times a month. Cleaning your disposal keeps the grinding blades sharp, removes existing debris and prevents unpleasant odors.
Use any of these 3 methods below to properly clean your garbage disposal:
- 1. Remove sludge and debris from your disposal by using ice cubes and salt
- A. Pour two cups of ice into the disposal, then 1 cup of salt
- B. Turn on cold water then turn on the garbage disposal
- C. Once the grinding is complete, turn off the disposal, then the water
The ice not only cleans but also sharpens the garbage disposal’s blades.
- 2. Eliminate odors from your garbage disposal by grinding citrus fruit peels
- A. Throw the fruit peel into the disposal, let cold water run and turn on the disposal
The citric acid in the peels will clean the blades and eliminate odors.
- A. Throw the fruit peel into the disposal, let cold water run and turn on the disposal
- 3. Prevent discoloration of the black rubber cover on your garbage disposal
*Make sure the disposal is OFF and NEVER put your hand inside!- A. Using an old tooth brush or scrub brush designed for garbage disposals and dish soap, scrub the black rubber screen (in sink hole) on top and underneath.
- B. Rinse with warm water
Slime and debris can buildup on the rubber screen and cause odors and discoloration over time.
Need help with a backed up garbage disposal in the Hampton, Virginia area? Call a local plumbing professional such as Atlantic Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning for prompt and professional service.