Garbage disposals are a convenient kitchen appliance that help reduce food waste and keep your kitchen clean. However, many people are wary of using them, fearing that they may inadvertently cause damage to the unit. In this article, we will explore whether or not it is possible to damage a garbage disposal and provide you with some tips to ensure its longevity.
Understanding how garbage disposals work
Before we delve into the potential for damage, let’s first understand how garbage disposals actually work. A typical garbage disposal unit is installed under your kitchen sink and is connected to the drainpipe. When you turn it on, a motor inside the unit spins a shredder plate or impellers that chop up food waste into small particles. These particles are then flushed down the drain through the plumbing system.
While garbage disposals are built to withstand the rigors of chopping up food waste, there are a few factors that can potentially cause damage. However, with proper usage and regular maintenance, you can significantly reduce the risk of damaging your garbage disposal.
1. Hard objects and fibrous materials
One common cause of damage to a garbage disposal is trying to grind hard objects or fibrous materials. Avoid putting items such as bones, fruit pits, or coffee grounds down the disposal as they can dull or break the shredder plate or impellers. Similarly, fibrous materials like corn husks, celery stalks, or onion skins can get tangled around the shredder plate, causing it to jam.
2. Grease and fats
Another potential source of damage is pouring grease or fats down the disposal. When warm grease or fats solidify, they can create clogs in the drainpipe or the disposal itself. Over time, this can lead to decreased performance and eventually cause the motor to burn out.
3. Lack of water
Running the disposal without an adequate amount of water can also be detrimental. Water is necessary to flush the ground-up food waste down the drain and also helps keep the disposal running smoothly. Without enough water, the waste can accumulate and cause clogs or strains on the motor.
Tips for maintaining your garbage disposal
To ensure the longevity of your garbage disposal and prevent unnecessary damage, follow these simple tips:
- Use cold water: Always run cold water while using the garbage disposal. Cold water helps solidify any grease or fats, making it easier for the unit to chop them up. It also helps flush the waste particles down the drain.
- Cut food waste into smaller pieces: Before putting food waste into the disposal, cut it into smaller pieces. This allows the unit to more effectively grind the waste and reduces the risk of clogs or jams.
- Clean the disposal regularly: Regularly cleaning your garbage disposal can eliminate build-up and prevent unpleasant odors. You can do this by running a mixture of ice cubes and rock salt or by using specialized garbage disposal cleaning products.
- Avoid using chemical drain cleaners: Chemical drain cleaners can corrode the plumbing and damage the garbage disposal. Opt for natural alternatives like baking soda and vinegar to unclog drains, if necessary.
- Know when to call a professional: If your garbage disposal is making strange noises, constantly jams, or simply isn’t functioning correctly, it is advisable to call a professional plumber to diagnose and fix the issue. Attempting to fix the problem yourself can lead to further damage.
While it is possible to damage a garbage disposal, by following proper usage guidelines and regular maintenance, you can minimize the risk of damage. Being mindful of what you put down the disposal and taking care of it will help ensure its longevity and keep your kitchen running smoothly for years to come.