A garbage disposal is a convenient appliance, but it requires regular cleaning to prevent clogs, foul odors, and costly repairs. Here’s how to keep yours fresh:
Table of contents
Cleaning Steps
- Initial Cleaning: Clear the drain opening of any visible debris.
- Flush with Soapy Water: Run hot, soapy water into the disposal.
- Ice and Salt Scrub: Add ice cubes and rock salt. Grind with cold water to scrub the disposal.
Natural Cleaning Methods
- Baking Soda and Vinegar: Pour baking soda, then vinegar. Let it fizz, then flush with hot water.
- Citrus: Grind lemon or orange peels for a fresh scent.
Other Effective Cleaning Agents
- Borax: Pour borax into the disposal, let it sit, then flush with hot water.
- Disposal Cleaning Tablets: Use Affresh or similar tablets for easy cleaning.
Tips and Considerations
- Frequency: Clean your disposal regularly to prevent buildup.
- What Not to Use: Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the disposal or pipes.
- Clearing Clogs: If clogged, try a plunger or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar.
By following these steps, you can maintain a clean and odor-free garbage disposal.
Maintaining Your Garbage Disposal
To extend the life and efficiency of your garbage disposal, consider these preventative measures:
Dos and Don’ts
- Do run cold water when operating the disposal. This helps solidify grease, allowing it to be ground up and flushed away more easily.
- Do cut large food scraps into smaller pieces before feeding them into the disposal. This reduces strain on the motor and prevents clogs.
- Do occasionally grind ice cubes to help sharpen the blades.
- Don’t pour grease, oil, or fat down the disposal. These substances solidify and can clog pipes.
- Don’t put starchy foods like rice, pasta, or potato peels down the disposal. They can expand and create a sticky mess.
- Don’t put coffee grounds down the disposal. Over time, they can accumulate and cause clogs.
- Don’t put fibrous foods like celery stalks, corn husks, or onion skins down the disposal. They can wrap around the blades and jam the motor.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
If you encounter issues with your garbage disposal, here are some troubleshooting tips:
- Disposal won’t turn on: Check the reset button, usually located on the bottom of the unit. Make sure the power switch is on.
- Disposal is humming but not grinding: Turn off the power and use tongs to remove any foreign objects that may be lodged in the grinding chamber.
- Persistent odors: Consider using a specialized garbage disposal cleaner that contains enzymes to break down organic matter.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve tried these troubleshooting steps and your garbage disposal still isn’t working properly, it’s time to call a plumber. Attempting to repair a garbage disposal yourself can be dangerous and may void your warranty.
By following these cleaning, maintenance, and troubleshooting tips, you can keep your garbage disposal running smoothly and efficiently for years to come.
