Most households in the Hastings and Rochester communities have a garbage disposal in the kitchen sink. And while these devices are convenient, most homeowners tend to misuse them and create some nasty sink clogs. So contrary to the implication of the unit’s name, it is not a fit solution to dispose of any and all garbage generated in the kitchen. And today, the experts at Paul Bunyan Plumbing & Drains will share a few tips on what should never find its way down your disposal to prevent a clogged drain and emergency call to 612-340-1444 to clear the drain and possibly even replace the damaged disposal.
What Is Inside That Magic Device In The Sink Drain?
A garbage disposal is simply a grinder or series of blades used to mince or shred large debris flowing down the drain. Knowing this, it makes sense that you never want to place sticky or very fibrous foods in the unit that will coat the blades and diminish their ability to grind food. And it is also important to note that running cool water while the disposal is in use is vital. Also, allow the water to run for at least ten seconds after the disposal is turned off to flush away any debris that could create a sour or rotten odor. Finally, cool or cold water is a better choice than warm water as the cool water will keep grease and fat congealed and allow it to flow out of the drain lines rather than melting and coating the inside of the pipes.
The Arch Enemies Of Garbage Disposals
There are many general tips about what should never find its way into your garbage disposal. Some guidelines include nothing sticky, stringy, or soft. Sticky items will coat the blades, rendering them useless. Stringy veggies will get tangled around the blades and mechanism and can clog or seize the unit. And finally, soft things like rice and pasta will expand into a mushy mess that will block the disposal drain.
Other very specific items that should not be in a disposal include:
- Coffee Grounds – they turn to paste and clog the drain.
- Grease – grease will solidify in the disposal base and create a foul odor and clogs.
- Eggshells – the sticky membrane gets stuck on the blades and decreases effectiveness.
- Onion Skins – the sticky membrane on an onion skin is much like that of an eggshell covering the blades and increasing the potential of a clog.
- Potato Peels – often fall through the blades without being diced into small pieces and clog the drain.
- Hard Foods – bones, nuts, fruit pits, and other hard foods cannot be reduced by the blades and will damage or destroy them.
The best way to prevent garbage disposal issues is to scrap food waste into the trash can before rinsing dishes and cookware. Also, place grease and cooking oil in a jar with a lid to put in the trashcan.
If you have a clogged garbage disposal or one not working correctly, call 612-340-1444 for expert assistance from the pros at Paul Bunyan Plumbing & Drains.
