Things to Know about Garbage Disposals

A garbage disposal may seem like a luxury for some; however, once you have experienced the convenience of this handy plumbing fixture, you will wonder what you ever did without it.  Installing a disposal is a quick, easy and relatively inexpensive job for a qualified plumbing professional.

‍Which Disposal is Right for You?

‍The first thing to consider when selecting a garbage disposal is whether you want a continuous or batch feed model. While most people select a continuous feed, the batch feed option can be safer to use.

Grind stages are also an important consideration. The more grind stages, the finer the food particles will become. This can be easier on your plumbing system but also can be more expensive.  Noise level is also something customers are typically concerned about. The level of insulation built into the food disposal will have a direct impact on how noisy it is during operation.

‍Do’s and Don’ts of Disposal Ownership

‍Once your garbage disposal is installed there are several things you should keep in mind to ensure that it runs efficiently.

• Clean your unit regularly – Pour some dish soap into the disposal and run for a minute or two until the bubbles have cleared.
• Deep clean monthly – For a deeper clean, put ice cubes and rock salt into the disposal and run until ice is completely ground. Another great option is to use frozen cubes of vinegar and water.
• Use the disposal regularly – Like any motor, regular use helps to ensure longevity and keeps all parts running properly.
• Use cold water – Start a strong flow of cold water before you turn the unit on. Continue to run water for a few minutes after unit is turned off.
• Do not put large items into the disposal – Cut these items into smaller pieces so the unit can properly chop them into manageable pieces.
• Do not grind any of the following items – Glass, metal, paper, combustible products, cigarette butts, potato peels, fibrous materials (corn husks, celery, onion skins, etc.), bones, coffee grounds, bleach or harsh chemicals.
• Do not pour grease or oil into the drain – grease will solidify and impede the disposal’s grinding ability. It can also severely clog your drain.

If you think a garbage disposal may be for you or need assistance repairing your current garbage disposal, contact the experts at JTM Plumbing.