FAQs for Homeowners on Garbage Disposals in Round Rock, Texas

Living in Round Rock, Texas, having a proper functioning garbage disposal can be a huge asset in the kitchen. Keeping garbage for too long can cause a range of potential problems, from bad odors to pest infestations. But not all homeowners are aware of the maintenance requirements that come with having a garbage disposal unit, and that's why Abacus Residential & Commercial Plumbing has created this comprehensive guide to answer all of your possibly questions about garbage disposals.

What is a garbage disposal?

A garbage disposal, also known as a disposer, is a device inserted into the kitchen sink Drain that grinds food waste into tiny particles that can safely be flushed down the drain. The device is powered either by an electric motor or by a manual crank. By grinding up food into smaller particles, it prevents large chunks from clogging the drain and pipe.

What are the benefits of having a garbage disposal?

The most obvious benefit of having a garbage disposal is that it greatly reduces the amount of kitchen waste that must be thrown out. By easily grinding up food, a garbage disposal significantly lessens the amount of garbage that mainly goes towards landfills. As well as reducing food waste, a garbage disposal also helps maintain the cleanliness of your home. Additionally, it helps keep sink and drainpipe free from blockages caused by large pieces of food, which can be time consuming and costly to fix.

What types of food can I put into the garbage disposal?

It's important to remember that garbage disposals are not magic tools that can grind down anything. You should practice caution when using the device, as certain items may cause damage or build up in the system. Generally, the safest items to put into a garbage disposal are small bones, fruit peels, vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, limited amounts of greases and oils, eggshells, and tea leaves. However, you should avoid putting in fibrous foods, such as celery, onion skins, and corn husks as they are too stringy and can easily wrap around the blades. You should also avoid starchy foods such as potatoes and grains, as these can turn into paste and clog the drain. And no matter what, you should never put bones, grease, fats, oils, plastic, or glass into the garbage disposal as these can seriously damage it.

How do I maintain and clean my garbage disposal?

Cleaning and maintaining your garbage disposal is not difficult, but it does require frequent maintenance to ensure it is operating effectively. Here are some steps to follow to help you do so:

Run cold water before and after you use the garbage disposal.

Cut up large pieces of food into small, bite-sized pieces before attempting to place them in the garbage disposal.

Run plenty of cold water when grinding up the food to ensure that the garbage disposal is flushing out properly.

Put a handful of ice cubes into your garbage disposal to help sharpen the blades.

Once a month, pour baking soda and white vinegar down the drain to help clear and clean the blades.

Pour lemon and orange peels in the garbage disposal to help clean the blades and freshen up the smell of the kitchen.

What should I do if my garbage disposal stops working?

If your garbage disposal is not working correctly, it can be quite the frustration. Some common problems include a jammed motor, strange smell, clogged piping, or if it's simply not turning on. If the situation is beyond your capabilities, contact a qualified plumber like Abacus Plumbing to have your problem quickly and professionally solved.

Garbage Disposal

Home Maintenance

Round Rock