The holidays are a time for celebration, good food, and quality time with loved ones—but they can also bring about the dreaded kitchen mess. And for many, the garbage disposal becomes the unsung hero of this time of year. But guess what? This handy appliance isn’t indestructible. Overloading it with the wrong types of food can lead to clogs, breakdowns, and an urgent need for garbage disposal repair.
This guide will walk you through what not to put in your garbage disposal, how to prevent mishaps, and what to do if you encounter an issue. Get ready to keep your kitchen running smoothly this holiday season!
Common Garbage Disposal Mistakes
Many homeowners underestimate their garbage disposal’s limitations. It’s easy to assume that this device can handle just about anything you throw its way, but in reality, that couldn’t be further from the truth. Common mistakes that may leave you needing garbage disposal repair include:
- Overloading the disposal with too much at once.
- Running the disposal without enough water.
- Tossing non-food items (hello, utensils) into the mix.
Foods to Avoid Putting in the Garbage Disposal
Did you know that putting the wrong things down the drain is one of the top causes of plumbing clogs? Here are 10 holiday foods you should never send down the drain to avoid requiring garbage disposal repair:
1. Grease, Oils, and Fats
Though they start as liquids, grease, and oils solidify when they cool, creating stubborn blockages in your pipes.
2. Potato Peels
These can clump together and turn into a starchy paste that wreaks havoc on your disposal blades.
3. Pasta and Rice
These foods expand when exposed to water, forming a gummy mess in the pipes.
4. Turkey or Chicken Bones
Your garbage disposal isn’t designed to handle hard, dense materials like bones. Save these for the trash.
5. Eggshells
Contrary to popular belief, eggshells’ membranes can wrap around the blades and cause damage.
6. Coffee Grounds
Coffee grounds may seem harmless, but they tend to clump together and form sludge over time.
7. Fibrous Vegetables (e.g., Celery, Onion Skins)
The fibers can entangle the disposal’s blades, making it work harder than it should and resulting in the need for premature garbage disposal repair.
8. Nuts
Nuts can turn into the same sticky, pasty consistency as nut butter, which can jam the disposal.
9. Fruit Pits
Items like peach pits, avocado seeds, and cherry stones are far too tough for the disposal to break down.
10. Citrus Peels in Large Quantities
While small amounts can help freshen the disposal, too many thick peels put unnecessary strain on the motor.
By avoiding these items, you’ll significantly reduce the risk of needing garbage disposal repair during your holiday festivities.
If Your Garbage Disposal Stops Working
Even with the best of intentions, things can still go awry. If your garbage disposal suddenly stops working, try these steps:
- Turn off the power. Always ensure your safety first—disconnections or resets should only be done when the appliance is fully powered down.
- Unclog manually. Use tongs to remove visible blockages; never stick your hand inside the disposal.
- Press the reset button. Located at the bottom, this could bring your unit back to life.
- Call a professional. If the problem persists, it could be a more complex mechanical issue. Schedule a garbage disposal repair service to get expert help.
Preventative Measures for a Healthy Garbage Disposal
They say an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, and that certainly applies to garbage disposals. Here’s how to keep yours in good shape year-round:
- Run cold water: Always run cold water during and after using the disposal to help flush food particles away.
- Feed items gradually: Avoid overwhelming the appliance by feeding it small batches rather than dumping everything in at once.
- Clean regularly: Use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar monthly to eliminate buildup and blockages.
How to Prevent Garbage Disposal Smells
No one wants a stinky kitchen during the holidays! To keep your garbage disposal fresh:
- Clean with citrus. Toss in a few small lemon or lime slices (with the unit running) for a natural deodorizer.
- Use baking soda and vinegar. Pour a half-cup of each into the disposal, then flush with hot water after letting it sit for 10 minutes.
- Rinse frequently. Ensure there’s plenty of water running to clear debris after every use.
Have a Plumbing Issue? Call Maximum Plumbing!
At the end of the day, even with proper care, your garbage disposal may occasionally need professional attention. Don’t let clogs or failures ruin your celebrations. Whether you’re dealing with a stubborn blockage or a full unit replacement, Maximum Plumbing is here to help.
Contact us today for expert garbage disposal repair, and enjoy the holiday season stress-free!
