For many, Garbage Disposal is another appliance they need to ensure their kitchen remains clean. But this appliance is a must-have for every home. However, like other house appliances, these items are prone to get damaged or require maintenance to work efficiently and last long. Below are crucial tips on how to handle a garbage disposal effectively. Bellow are the tips that we are going to expound on:
- Regular cleaning
- Do not add hard or fibrous foods
- Cold water
- Proceed with caution
- Arrange for professional maintenance
1. Regular Cleaning
One of the crucial maintenance forms is regular garbage disposal flywheel cleaning. Food debris and residue may accumulate over time causing bad smells and possible clogging issues. It is a good practice to turn it off and unplug the garbage disposal before cleaning it for safety reasons. Then, shine the flashlight to see efficiently in the unit and peer inside the unit while scanning for some obvious debris. After that, follow through by running hot water and dish soap down the disposal to loosen a little bit of the stuck gunk glued to its interiors. In addition, frozen ground ice cubes or citrus peels will be used to clean the unit’s blades and break any smell.
2. Do Not Add Hard or Fibrous Foods
Although garbage disposals are designed to crush virtually all the food items in the garbage, adding them into the system may damage or clog it. Never put bones, fruit pits, coffee grounds, and potato peels down the disposal, as such foods dull the blades or get caught onto the mechanism. Instead, these should go into the rubbish bin or compost heap.
3. Cold Water
Always use cold water instead of hot water when switching on your garbage disposal. Cold water would set in every grease or oil in the waste for a more easy dissolution and breakdown when disposing of it. Also, cold water assists in preventing overheating of the motor; hence, your appliance will have a longer lifespan. Ensure the tap is fitted with cold water and allow it to run for about 30 seconds before and after involvement in the disposal process since it will help keep flushing the wastes properly.
4. Proceed With Caution
Always keep your garbage disposal safe while using the disposal to avoid unnecessary accidents and damage. Refrain from overloading it with a lot of waste at once, as this overworks the motor and may get it jammed at times. Place small quantities of garbage into the disposal instead of all at once so that it might process each batch smoothly and effectively. Also, never place your hands inside the disposal, even when not running, since sharp blades and other elements cause physical injuries. Safely dispose of the debris using your tongs or with a long-handled brush.
5. Arrange for Professional Maintenance
Though regular cleaning and care can go a long way to developing your garbage disposal, it should occasionally be arranged for professional maintenance. A licensed plumber or appliance technician should be able to review your disposal, look for any signs of wear or damage at garbage disposal flywheel, tighten connections that have loosened, and ensure all parts are functioning properly. They can also provide invaluable advice on proper usage and offer the correct repairs or replacements as and when needed to increase your appliance’s lifespan.