Garbage Disposal Maintenance and Repair
A garbage disposal is a powerful kitchen convenience, but it requires proper care to avoid jams, clogs, and unpleasant odors. Following a few simple maintenance rules can keep your unit grinding efficiently for years.
❌ What NOT to Put Down Your Disposal
The number one rule of disposal care is to be selective about what you grind. Avoid these items to prevent damage:
🧽 Regular Maintenance and Cleaning
Keep your disposal clean and sharp with these simple weekly tasks.
🧊 Grind Ice Cubes
Grinding a few ice cubes helps sharpen the blades and clears away built-up sludge.
🍋 Use Citrus Peels
Grind small pieces of lemon, lime, or orange peels to freshen the unit and eliminate odors.
💧 Run Cold Water
Always run a strong flow of cold water before, during, and for 30 seconds after using the disposal to flush particles through the pipes.
🧼 Dish Soap Flush
A squirt of dish soap and cold water can help break down grease and keep the unit clean.
🔧 Troubleshooting Common Problems
If your disposal stops working, try these simple fixes before calling for help.
DIY Repair Steps
- Humming but Not Grinding: The unit is jammed. Turn off the power, and use an Allen wrench on the bottom of the unit to manually turn the blades and dislodge the jam.
- No Sound at All: The unit has likely overheated. Press the red reset button on the bottom of the disposal. If that doesn't work, check your circuit breaker.
- Slow Draining: You may have a clog. Try using a plunger or a drain snake to clear the blockage. Avoid harsh chemical drain cleaners.
Safety First! Never put your hand inside the garbage disposal. Always turn off the power at the circuit breaker before attempting any repairs.
If you have a stubborn jam or a disposal that won't turn on, don't risk injury. The professional plumbers at The Box Advantage Group can safely repair or replace your garbage disposal.
