Do you want to keep your garbage disposal running longer without major breakdowns? The key to longevity when it comes to plumbing appliances is routine maintenance, proper installation, and correct usage. This is the trifecta of getting the most out of your garbage disposal. At My Sunnyvale Plumber Hero, we can help you with all three areas to improve performance and reduce the chances of mechanical failure.

Routine Maintenance Tips

What is the best way to care for your garbage disposal? First, we suggest making sure all food particles are washed down the disposal after usage to prevent the blades from jamming. The easiest way to do this is to run cold water in the disposal and keep it running for at least 10-15 seconds after you think everything has been grinded up.

We also suggest routinely sharpening the blades by grinding up ice cubes in the disposal. If you want to deodorize your disposal to prevent odors, make vinegar ice cubes. This keeps the disposal smelling fresh and sharpens the blades. You only have to do this once or twice a month for it to be effective.

Garbage Disposal Usage Tips

Operating a garbage disposal is not rocket science. You insert food waste and turn the machine on, right? That’s pretty much the idea, but sometimes homeowners get a little overzealous with what they are putting in their machine. What happens next is a huge mess because the disposal can’t keep up with the volume and one of two things will happen: 1) the motor will burnout, or 2) a major clog will develop.

When the motor burns out, you need to replace the whole appliance. In the case of a clog, you may need drain cleaning services or take the entire disposal apart to repair seals or hoses that were damaged because of the blockage.

You can prevent this from happening by only putting small amounts of the right foods in your disposal. This means only disposing of food leftover in bowls or on plates after a meal and never putting food preparation scraps in the disposal. This type of food waste belongs in the trash can. Also, never pour cooking oil, fat, or grease in the disposal. As these substances cool they harden. Even just pouring a little bit in the disposal has the potential to build up over time and create major blockages.

Garbage Disposal Installation

Do you need a new garbage disposal? Please don’t try to install the unit yourself. Instead, call for professional plumbing service in Sunnyvale, CA. At My Sunnyvale Plumber Hero, we offer affordable garbage disposal repair and installation that is always backed by our 100% customer satisfaction guarantee. Call today to learn more!