Frequently Asked Questions About Sink Garbage Disposals for Austin, TX Property Owners

Living and owning property in the Austin, Texas area means dealing with lots of different kinds of household maintenance, from appliances to plumbing. One of the most common plumbing issues Austin property owners have to manage is that of sink garbage disposals. From purchasing and installing a new disposal to troubleshooting a problem set-up, there are many questions a property owner may have about sink garbage disposals. In this article, Abacus Residential & Commercial Plumbing provides property owners in the Austin area with answers to the most frequently asked questions about sink disposals to help ensure their systems are brought up to top-notch standards.

What is a sink garbage disposal?

A sink garbage disposal is a device installed underneath the sink that shreds, grinds, and pulverizes food and other organic waste so they can be disposed of more easily. The device consists of a motor, blades, and in some models a spinning grind plate or impellers. The garbage disposal includes a stopper-like plug that seals off the outlet pipe and helps to contain the extra food debris within the disposal.

Does a sink garbage disposal require any special maintenance?

Regular maintenance of a sink garbage disposal is essential to keeping it running at peak efficiency and avoiding any unexpected repairs. Homeowners should practice proper usage of the disposal to avoid damage and overloads. Things like not overloading it, running a steady stream of cold water when running the disposal, and avoiding putting harder-to-grind items like potato peels and coffee grounds down the disposal can help avoid problems.

Also, be sure to inspect inside the basin and around the unit for any debris, blockages, or worn out parts. It's generally recommended that the motor should be cleaned and serviced at least twice a year, and that any corroded parts are replaced if needed.

What should I do if my sink garbage disposal is broken or clogged?

If your sink garbage disposal isn't working, the first thing to do is to unplug the unit from the wall. After that, check for any obvious blockages in the drain. With the power unplugged, try to break up any blockages with a plumber's snake or using a plunger. If that doesn't work, remove the access panel on the side of the unit and see if you can spot any broken or corroded parts that need to be replaced or fixed.

If you're dealing with a clogged sink, you may want to start by disassembling the unit and filling it with a caustic solution to dissolve any hard-to-remove blockages or clogs. If the problem persists, it may be time to call in a professional plumber with the proper tools and equipment.

What are some safety tips for using a sink garbage disposal?

As with any kind of appliance that involves water and electricity, it is important to be mindful of safety when using a sink garbage disposal. Always remember to unplug the unit when cleaning or servicing it. Additionally, it is important to avoid putting your hands or any foreign objects down the disposal while it is running. This could lead to serious injury.

It is also important to remember that the sink disposal should be used only for certain types of organic waste, like food scraps and peelings. Things like bones, oyster shells, banana peels, eggshells, and grease or oil should never be placed in the disposal. Doing so could cause such items to become lodged in the unit or create an obstruction in the drainpipe.

Sink Garbage Disposal

Austin TX

Plumbing