A garbage disposal is a great investment. It is a small appliance that can be a great tool for your home, when it comes to protecting the life of your drains. While using this disposal may seem like a no-brainer, there are some elements to consider to ensure a long life for your disposal. Your disposal will perform at its best with proper usage and maintenance.
Garbage Disposal Maintenance
When it comes to maintaining your garbage disposal, there are a few basic tips to remember to ensure its long life. These tips include:
- Use Cold Water – Cold water should be used when running your garbage disposal. Hot water can cause fat to congeal and stick to the blades and interior of your disposal. Cold water helps to prevent any congealing, and it is also great for preventing your disposal from overheating. It is recommended that you run cold water for a solid 15 seconds after grinding.
- Keep it Clean – There are a few different ways to ensure that your garbage disposal is kept clean. One way is to clean it with small amounts of ice on occasion. Another great cleaning idea is to use a degreaser. A degreaser will help keep any fat and other particles from building up. It also helps keep your garbage disposal working efficiently while eliminating any odors. It is also a good idea to snake your drain at least once every two years to prevent any clogs.
- Keep it Fresh – While degreaser can help keep your disposal smelling good, citrus is also a great freshener. Peels from lemons, limes, oranges, and other citrus fruits can help keep your garbage disposal smelling fresh. They are also great due to their natural acid preventing bacterial growth
Maintaining your garbage disposal doesn’t have to be difficult. Taking small steps can help extend the life of your disposal. If you feel you’re having issues with your disposal, it may be best to turn to a professional to gauge the extent of your problem. At Birmingham Plumbing, Heating, and Air, our team of experienced experts are available to answer any of your questions or concerns.
