Understanding what can and cannot be put down your garbage disposal is crucial for maintaining its efficiency and longevity. At Johnson & Johnson Heating and Air Conditioning, our expertise also extends to essential plumbing fixtures, such as garbage disposals. Join us in exploring the dos and don’ts regarding what you can put down a garbage disposal.
Safe for Your Garbage Disposal
1. Citrus Peels
Citrus fruits like lemons and oranges are okay for your garbage disposal. In fact, the peels can help clean the disposal blades and leave a fresh scent. Make sure they are cut into small pieces to prevent clogging.
2. Ice Cubes
Running ice cubes through your disposal can help sharpen the blades and remove any lingering food residue. This is a quick and effective way to keep the disposal clean!
3. Small Food Scraps
Small amounts of food scraps from fruits and vegetables are generally safe for your disposal. Check that these items are free of any non-food materials and cut into smaller pieces.
4. Cold Water
Always use cold water when running your garbage disposal. It helps waste go down the drain easily without clogging.
Harmful to Your Garbage Disposal
1. Coffee Grounds
While it might seem harmless, coffee grounds can accumulate in your drain pipes and create blockages over time. Instead of flushing them down, add them to a compost pile or use them as fertilizer in your garden.
2. Fibrous Vegetables
Fibrous foods and vegetables like celery, asparagus, and corn husks have fibrous strands that can tangle around the disposal blades. These can strain the motor and clog the drainage system. Composting these items or throwing them in the trash is a better option.
3. Starchy Foods
Foods like cooked pasta, potato peels, and rice expand when they absorb water, which can lead to clogs in your drain lines. These should be disposed of in the trash can or composted.
4. Oils and Fats
Greasy substances can solidify within the plumbing system, leading to build-ups that are difficult to clear. Always dispose of oils and fats in a container in the trash.
5. Non-Food Items
It’s important to remember that only biodegradable food items should go into your disposal. Non-food items like paper towels, plastic wrappers, or cigarette butts should always go into the trash can.
6. Fruit Pits
Fruit pits should never be placed in a garbage disposal; they are too hard and can damage the disposal blades, leading to costly repairs. Instead of risking damage to your disposal unit, it’s safer to dispose of these items in the trash can or consider other waste disposal methods.
Garbage Disposal Maintenance: Beyond What You Should and Shouldn’t Put in a Garbage Disposal
To keep your disposal in good condition, regularly clean it with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar, followed by hot water to remove any built-up residue. For a deeper clean, consider using dish soap and lemon juice, which will also help eliminate any unpleasant odors.
If you encounter any issues with your disposal, such as persistent clogs or poor performance, it may be time to call in the professionals. At Johnson & Johnson Heating and Air Conditioning, we provide comprehensive services for garbage disposal repair and replacement. Trust us to handle any plumbing needs you have efficiently and effectively.
Contact Us for Expert Garbage Disposal Repair and Replacement Services
If you’re in Martinsburg, WV, Frederick, MD, or the surrounding areas and need assistance with your garbage disposal, or if you require any plumbing, heating, air conditioning, or indoor air quality services, don’t hesitate to contact Johnson & Johnson Heating and Air Conditioning. Our team is ready to provide you with reliable solutions tailored to your specific needs. Let us help you maintain a comfortable home.
