It’s lean. It’s mean. It’s a garbage disposal machine. But contrary to popular belief, the garbage disposal in your sink does have hidden weaknesses that will cause you plenty of plumbing problems.
Spring has sprung and as cookout season begins or holiday gatherings roll around, your leftover scraps are hopefully finding their way to the garbage bins and not your garbage disposal. But, just in case, keep in mind these garbage disposal tips to keep your sink running smoothly and worry-free.
Liquids to Avoid
Although it may seem like it goes down smooth, oil, grease and fat are all items that will clog up your drains quickly. The oils and grease will thicken once in your pipes causing it to clog easily. Small amounts of these liquids can be washed down a garbage disposal but do run hot water before and after running these through your disposal. To avoid any issues at all, opt to throw these out in your regular trash can.
Solids to Avoid
Nut shells, coffee grounds, rice, pasta, bread… The list goes on and on. There are a handful of common food and food byproducts that are no good for your garbage disposal. Many of these items should never go down your drain, like coffee grounds. However, small amounts of certain foods like rice and pasta can be fine for your drain. Here are additional food products you do not want to wash down your disposal. In addition to the foods listed above:
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Beans
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Potato peels
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Fruit pits
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Animal bones
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Seeds
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Most vegetable and fruit skins
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Shrimp shells
Non-food Items to Avoid
While some home remedies for your garbage disposal will work, like baking soda and vinegar, not all the tricks you see on TikTok are actually good for your plumbing system or best practice by professionals. Here are some common household items not to use in your garbage disposal:
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Bleach
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Tea bags
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Medicine
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Paint
Has your garbage disposal fallen to one of these common kryptonites? Give Isley Plumbing a call at 317-420-4006 for help today!