Garbage Disposal Maintenance for Austin Homeowners: Everything You Need to Know

Trying to maintain a garbage disposal can seem like an insurmountable task. After all, many homeowners in Austin, Texas, 78613, are unfamiliar with the intricacies of their plumbing, and even with the multitude of YouTube tutorials out there, navigating repairs by yourself can be daunting. Well, worry no more! This comprehensive guide will teach you everything you need to know to keep your garbage disposal in working order, and ensure that your home plumbing is running smoothly.

From the warning signs and common problems to the maintenance and repair tips, this guide will give you the skills to keep your garbage disposal in top condition. Knowing the basics of proper maintenance is the first step towards a healthier, cleaner plumbing system in your home. Read on to learn more and keep your disposal problem-free for years to come.

Common Garbage Disposal Problems

The most common plumbing problems are those that affect your garbage disposal. In fact, disposals are renowned for clogs, foul odors, and leakages. Other common concerns include finicky switches, jammed blades, and broken or immovable stoppers. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to avoid (or at least lessen) the impact of these problems.

Clogs, for example, occur when debris and objects are forced into the disposal. This can create an impenetrable blockage in the corkscrew-shaped disposer, resulting in a slowed or blocked food flow. To prevent clogs, only place soft items like fish or vegetable scraps into the disposal, and make sure to avoid hard items such as bones, eggshells, and fruit pits.

For the highly unpleasant odors that occur, the source often lies in the disposal itself. To tackle these smells, you should first dispose of any food scraps that have been sitting too long and causing a stench. Then, use a mixture of white vinegar and baking soda to remove any built-up bacteria or debris. If the smell persists, it could be a sign of a leak or another issue that you should address immediately.

Signs a Repair is Needed

If your garbage disposal is leaking or making a grinding noise, then it is probably time to repair it. Leaks occur when the disposal motor isn't functioning properly and needs to be replaced. Grinding and other unusual noises indicate that objects are stuck in the blades or screwed up motor, and these can be removed with a professional's help.

Clogs, too, are often indicative of a larger issue. If clogs occur frequently, it could mean that there's a buildup of grease or food particles near the disposal blades, or even a blockage in the drainage system. In this case, you should call a professional in order to inspect the system and keep it running smoothly for years to come.

Maintaining Your Disposal

Fortunately, it is possible to keep your dishwasher running smoothly without having to rush to a professional for help. It all starts with proper maintenance. The key things to remember include:

Never pour coffee grounds, fats, oils, or grease into the disposal, as these can accumulate and create nasty clogs.

Always run cold water before and after using the disposal. This will keep up the flow and push everything through.

Frequently inspect the disposal and surrounding pipes for leaks or cracking. If any of these problems occur, get in touch with a professional immediately.

Run ice cubes through the disposal at least once a week to sharpen the blades.

Run citrus peels through the disposal once a month to freshen it up.

Clean the unit with water and a mild detergent every few months.

Keep a trash bin in the kitchen for disposing of items that shouldn't go in the disposal.

By following these tips regularly and diligently, you can keep your garbage disposal in great condition and avoid costly and messy repair bills. While you can attempt to tackle more serious repairs on your own with some guidance from YouTube, it's best to consult a professional for help with major issues.

Reach Out to a Professional Plumber

For the more serious problems afflicting your garbage disposal, it's best to contact a professional plumber in Austin, Texas, 78613. Abacus residential and commercial plumbers offer a multitude of services related to plumbing repairs, including gas and electric water heaters, slab leaks, leaky pipes, and, of course, garbage disposals.

Whether the task at hand is large or small, all Abacus technicians are insured, trained to the highest standards, and committed to complete customer satisfaction. So if you ever find yourself in need of a reliable plumbing expert, you can always count on Abacus.

Garbage Disposal

Austin

Maintenance