For many years, homeowners lived without garbage disposals in their homes. But of course, over time, food particles that went down the drain would cause clogs that were difficult and costly to remove. Thankfully, the garbage disposal was invented to reduce the amount of solid waste that got washed down the drain.

Most homeowners want to avoid the cost of replacing their garbage disposal. Luckily, there are a few easy ways to keep your garbage disposal in top shape. In this blog, we’ll cover some of the best practices to keep in mind while using your garbage disposal.

Garbage Disposal Do’s

Treating your garbage disposal well is the first step in preventing problems down the road. Here are a few key things to try that will keep your system in tip-top shape.

  • Keep cool water running while in use
  • Put a mesh drain strainer over the drain to collect any unwanted debris from falling into your garbage disposal
  • Run a mixture of baking soda and vinegar through the system to clean it

With any luck, following those simple steps will help your garbage disposal operate in peak condition and prevent any issues.

Garbage Disposal Don’ts

The main way to protect your garbage disposal is to avoid putting items down the drain that could be damaging to the unit. Some of the most common items that can damage your disposal include:

  • Grease
  • Coffee Grounds
  • Potato Peels
  • Egg Shells
  • Bones
  • Fruit Pits

Your garbage disposal is a valuable part of your kitchen’s plumbing system. Without it, debris that falls into your drain could wind up in your pipes and cause a clog. That’s why it’s important to treat the garbage disposal well and maintain a healthy flow inside your pipes. Keep the disposal clean and avoid grinding any items that could damage the blades or cause buildup. If your garbage disposal requires maintenance, contact Benjamin Franklin Plumbing.