With Thanksgiving just around the corner, it’s time to prepare for the festivities, which means lots of cooking, eating, and, unfortunately, dishwashing. The holiday is a prime time for garbage disposal problems, as many people aren’t aware of what can and can’t go into the disposal. Misuse of your garbage disposal can lead to a clogged drain, unwanted odors, or even the need for garbage disposal repair.
At Mark Johnson & Sons Plumbing, we want to help you avoid these issues and enjoy a hassle-free holiday. Here’s a guide to what you should and shouldn’t put in your disposal.
What You Can Put in the Garbage Disposal
When used correctly, a garbage disposal is a helpful kitchen tool. Here are some items that are typically safe to go down the disposal:
- Soft Food Scraps: Foods like small vegetable pieces, soft fruits, and other small scraps are generally safe. Break larger pieces down to avoid clogging.
- Cold Water: Always run cold water when using your garbage disposal. Cold water helps solidify any fats or oils, making them easier to break down without clogging the pipes.
- Ice Cubes: Throwing a few ice cubes down the disposal occasionally can help clean the blades and reduce odor. Ice helps to sharpen the disposal’s blades and clear any residue build-up.
If you’re looking to replace or upgrade your disposal to handle more waste, Mark Johnson & Sons Plumbing offers professional garbage disposal installation services. This can give you peace of mind knowing your kitchen is equipped to handle holiday cooking with ease.
What You Can’t Put in the Garbage Disposal
Many items, however, can harm your garbage disposal and lead to costly repairs. Here’s a rundown of things you should keep out:
- Grease, Oil, and Fat: Avoid pouring any type of grease, oil, or fat down the drain. These substances harden as they cool, leading to blockages. Grease is a top culprit for a clogged drain and can significantly shorten the lifespan of your disposal.
- Fibrous Vegetables: Foods like celery, corn husks, asparagus, and potato peels contain fibers that can wrap around the disposal’s blades, causing them to jam. Even small amounts can build up and eventually require garbage disposal repair.
- Eggshells: Eggshells have a membrane lining that can get tangled in the disposal’s blades, creating clogs. They’re also gritty and can build up in the pipes over time.
- Pasta, Rice, and Bread: Foods that expand with water, such as pasta and rice, can quickly swell inside your drain and cause clogs. Over time, these foods will form a dense blockage, leading to issues that may require professional intervention.
- Bones and Shells: Hard materials like bones and seafood shells can dull or damage your garbage disposal blades. Even if the disposal breaks them up, they can still get caught in your pipes and lead to a clogged drain.
For a more detailed guide on how to care for your disposal, check out the garbage disposal services offered by Mark Johnson & Sons Plumbing.
Avoid Holiday Hassles with Regular Maintenance
One of the best ways to avoid a Thanksgiving plumbing emergency is to practice regular maintenance. Running cold water during and after use, cleaning your disposal with ice cubes, and avoiding harmful foods can keep your garbage disposal in top shape. If you’re dealing with frequent clogs or suspect your disposal needs attention, it may be time for professional garbage disposal repair.
Call a Professional for Assistance
If you encounter any issues with your garbage disposal this Thanksgiving, our team at Mark Johnson & Sons Plumbing is here to help. We offer a full range of garbage disposal services, from installation to repairs. For assistance with a clogged drain or to schedule an installation before the holiday, contact us.
