Pasadena, MD & Nearby Areas 
A garbage disposal can be handy for keeping your kitchen clean and reducing waste, but improper use can lead to frustrating clogs or even damage to the unit itself. Knowing what should and should not go down your disposal is crucial in maintaining its function and avoiding costly repairs. This article will discuss items that should never go into your garbage disposal and provide tips on using them safely and effectively.
Unsafe: Bones, Shells, and Other Hard Objects
A common misunderstanding is that garbage disposals have sharp blades to cut up food. Disposals work by grinding food into tiny pieces using a spinning metal disc and impellers that press scraps against a grinding ring. This process is effective for most soft foods, but hard items such as bones, shells, and other solid objects should never be put into the disposal. Contrary to the idea that bones might dull the blades, the real issue is that hard items can quickly become stuck between the impellers and the grinding chamber and cause the disposal to jam.
When the disc cannot spin freely, your disposal may stop working altogether, which could lead to a costly repair or replacement. If you need to dispose of bones, shells, or other solid materials, it is always best to throw them in the trash.
Unsafe: Nuts, Grains, and Starchy Foods
Starchy foods like potatoes, pasta, and rice can cause significant problems for your disposal and plumbing systems. When these items are ground up, they can turn into a thick, sticky paste that clings to the inside of the unit and drain pipes. Over time, this paste can accumulate and increase the risk of clogs. Nuts pose a similar risk, as they can break into a peanut butter-like substance when processed through a garbage disposal.
This sticky material is tough to wash away, making your drain more likely to become blocked.
Unsafe: Meat and Fibrous Fruits/Vegetables
Both raw and cooked meat can present challenges for garbage disposal. Meat tends to be tough, and it may not grind up completely. This will leave chunks in the disposal that can rot over time and produce foul odors. Meat can also linger in the grinding chamber and increase the risk of clogging the disposal of your pipes. Fibrous fruits and vegetables, like banana peels, celery, and squash, can also pose problems.
Unsafe: Eggshells and Onion Skins
Eggshells are often considered safe for disposal since they are brittle and break down easily. However, the issue lies with the thin membrane inside the shell, which can clog the small openings at the bottom of the unit. This can lead to slow draining or even cause the disposal to stop draining entirely. Similarly, onion skins contain a slippery membrane that can get trapped in the system.
Unsafe: Fat, Grease, and Oil
No matter how efficient your garbage disposal is, it should never be used for disposing of fat, grease, or oil. When these substances are poured down the drain, they often cool and solidify, and they will stick to the inside of your pipes. Over time, this can create a sticky, solid mass that traps other food particles and debris, leading to clogs in your drain and sewer line. To avoid this, always dispose of fat, grease, and oil in a sealed container and throw it in the trash once it cools.
This will help keep your pipes clear and reduce the risk of blockages.
How To Use a Garbage Disposal Properly
Aside from the items mentioned above, most other food scraps are safe for garbage disposal. However, to maintain the longevity of your unit, it is essential to follow proper usage guidelines. First, always ensure that food scraps are broken into small pieces before placing them in the disposal. Feed the scraps slowly while the unit runs to prevent overworking the motor.
Another important rule is to always run cold water while using the disposal. Cold water helps keep fats solid, making them easier to pass through the system. After turning off the unit, continue running the water for at least 15 seconds to ensure all food particles are flushed through the system.
Contact Priority Plumbing & Drain today
If you’re considering installing a new garbage disposal or need repair assistance, Priority Plumbing & Drain is here to help. We specialize in plumbing and drain services, including installation, maintenance, and repairs. For expert garbage disposal installation or any other plumbing needs in Pasadena, MD, contact us today to schedule an appointment.
