If your garbage disposal is acting up, making strange noises, or smelling like last week’s dinner, it might be time for a little TLC. The good news? With just a few simple habits and some know-how, you can extend the life of your garbage disposal and keep your kitchen running smoothly. At Complete Plumbing and Drain, we know how frustrating disposal issues can be—so let’s talk about how to avoid those costly repairs and get the most out of your unit.
Understand What (and What Not) to Put in Your Garbage Disposal
One of the best ways to keep your disposal in top condition is to be mindful of what goes down your kitchen sink.
- DO feed it small pieces of food scraps at a time.
- DON’T throw in fibrous foods like corn husks, celery, and onion skins—these can tangle the disposal blades.
- AVOID hard items like fruit pits, bones, and uncooked pasta.
- NEVER pour in cooking oil or grease—they can solidify and clog your drain pipe.
Even though it’s called a “garbage” disposal, it’s not a catch-all. Common sense and proper usage habits can help prevent garbage disposal issues.
Use Cold Water—Not Hot
Contrary to popular belief, hot water isn’t always a good idea when using your disposal. Run cold water before, during, and after use.
Why cold water? It helps food particles stay solid so the disposal’s blades can grind them more easily, reducing the chance of food debris sticking to the walls or pipes. And make sure to keep that water running for at least 20 seconds after turning off the disposal to flush everything through.
Keep It Clean with Natural Methods
You don’t need harsh chemicals to maintain a well-maintained garbage disposal. In fact, those can damage the moving parts and lead to breakdowns.
Try these simple yet effective tips:
- Drop in a handful of ice cubes and a tablespoon of rock salt—run the disposal for a few seconds to scrub the blades.
- Use citrus peels like lemon or orange to help remove foul odors and leave a fresh scent.
- Pour a cup of vinegar followed by baking soda to break down grime and freshen the unit.
For regular upkeep, wash it every few days with warm water, a little dish soap, and a long-handled brush to clean under the splash guard.
Practice Smart Disposal Habits
Like anything else in your home, your garbage disposal needs proper care to stay in good working condition. Here’s a quick checklist of best practices:
- Only run the disposal when water is flowing.
- Cut large types of food into smaller pieces.
- Feed in small amounts rather than dumping in a large load of excess food.
- Listen for unusual noises or vibrations, which could signal foreign objects or hard materials.
- Use the reset button (located at the bottom of the unit) if the motor trips.
Following these simple tips can help prevent persistent clogs, bad smells, and sudden breakdowns.
Schedule Professional Help When Needed
Even with regular maintenance, sometimes you’ll run into common issues like a jammed motor, slow drainage, or a unit that won’t turn on at all. That’s where calling a professional plumber makes all the difference.
If you’re in the Tampa Bay or Brandon area, our plumbing services at Complete Plumbing and Drain can take care of garbage disposal repair, installation, or even a full garbage disposal replacement. We’re family-owned, fully licensed, and ready to help—whether it’s your disposal, water heater, or full plumbing system.
Simple Habits = Longer Lifespan
Extending the life of your garbage disposal doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few mindful steps—like keeping out fibrous materials, using cold water, and sticking to a regular cleaning routine—you can save yourself from costly repairs and keep your kitchen running smoothly.
And when in doubt, it’s always a good idea to call in the experts.
Need Help with Your Disposal?
If your disposal unit is making odd noises, not grinding properly, or showing signs of wear, give us a call at 813-699-0684 or schedule a service online. At Complete Plumbing and Drain, we’ll get your kitchen back in shape in no time—with honest service, expert repairs, and that good ole’ Florida hospitality.