Garbage disposal issues are probably one of the messiest, most inconvenient plumbing problems you can run into. Hopefully you’ll never have to deal with a disaster of this type, but the fact of the matter is that they do happen. And when you do have such an issue, you want a plumber you can trust to get your garbage disposal back in working order as soon as possible. Keep reading for 3 tips on how to prevent garbage disposal disasters.
1. Never Put Your Hand in It
Your garbage disposal has impeller blades that, while not sharp, can do a significant amount of damage. After all, they are tasked with applying intense centrifugal force to food waste so that it reaches the rind ring that processes the food. That being said, it’s never a good idea to put your hand down the drain when you think something is clogging it. This is especially true if a piece of silverware or broken glass somehow fell down the drain.
2. Know What Can and Cannot go Down the Drain
The best way to avoid damage to your garbage disposal unit is to understand what you are able to put down the drain and what you shouldn’t put down it. In most cases, anything you can (potentially) chew with your own teeth is acceptable.
Other items that should never go down your garbage disposal include meat bones, popcorn kernels, fruit pits, plastic wrappers, stringy and fibrous foods such as onion skins and celery, and last but not least—FOG (fats, oils, and grease) as they cool when they harden and create clogs as a result.
3. Know How to Clean the Unit
In order to operate smoothly, and avoid bad smells, you should keep your garbage disposal clean. This is as easy as dumping some baking soda down the drain and following it up with white vinegar. It’s important that you avoid chemical drain cleaners as these can actually wear down the pipe lining and do more harm than good to your plumbing system.
When you need exceptional garbage disposal services in Lacey, WA, contact the team at Brooks Plumbing Co.
