How Does a Garbage Disposal Get Clogged?
If you own a garbage disposal in your kitchen sink, you may not think it is even possible for you to experience a clog since that is the precise reason your disposal exists. It is actually fairly easy for a clog to occur in a sink that has a garbage disposal, most of the time because you are putting the wrong foods down your disposal.
We are one of Denver’s best plumbing companies and we have plenty of experience when it comes to replacing or repairing garbage disposals if you are experiencing issues.
High 5 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric also offers garbage disposal services in:
- Arvada
- Broomfield
- Centennial
- Englewood
- Highlands Ranch
- Littleton
- Parker
- Thornton
- Westminster
- Surrounding Areas
What Should Not Go Down Your Garbage Disposal?
Popcorn Kernels and Bones
A good rule to follow: If you could not chew it with your teeth, you should not put it in your disposal. Your unit can easily break when you put these types of items in your garbage disposal.
Pasta and Rice
You likely did not know this is a no-no. While your garbage disposal can break up food like this, it cannot keep them from expanding once they have been dismembered, which can cause a clog in your pipes pretty easily.
Celery and Onion Skins
While some vegetable peels and skins are totally fine to put down the garbage disposal, not all of them are that way. Celery and onion skins are fibrous and stringy. Other items that also fall into this category are asparagus and corn husks. These types of foods can wrap around the impeller and cause the motor to jam.
Grease and Fat
This one you should know. Whether you have a garbage disposal or not, you should never ever put grease or fat down the drain. These liquids can easily solidify and cause major clogs that will have to be repaired by a professional.
Food Wrappers
Plain and simple, your garbage disposal is not your trash can. Whatever you do, don’t put food wrappers and other non-food items down your disposal if you want to keep it in working order.
When Is It Time to Replace Your Garbage Disposal?
Clearly, the most obvious clue that your garbage disposal needs to be replaced is that it stops working. However, if your disposal is still working, how are you supposed to know when it is time to get a new one?
Another sign that it is time to replace your garbage disposal is if you notice a foul odor coming from your sink even after you have thoroughly rinsed it out. When your grinding chamber isn’t working correctly, food can become trapped and rot which will emanate a less-than-desirable odor.
Test To See If It’s Time to Get a New Garbage Disposal
If your disposal is still performing at an optimum level, it should be able to shred several orange or potato peels in a matter of seconds. If you notice, however, that it takes quite a while for your disposal to complete the job, it may be time for a new one.
Truthfully, it doesn’t matter how much money you spent on your garbage disposal, you will have to replace it eventually. The purpose of the disposal makes it impossible for it to last forever because of its constant exposure to running water, food scraps and the occasional accidental utensil.
If you think it may be time for you to get rid of your old garbage disposal and replace it with one that will work properly, you should call our top-rated Denver plumbing team at High 5 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric. We replace garbage disposals quite frequently, and we love seeing the surprise on our customers’ faces when they see how much better their new disposal works than their old one.
Don’t settle for a garbage disposal that isn’t doing its job correctly. Instead, upgrade your current equipment because you deserve to have the most functional kitchen possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common signs that my garbage disposal needs repair?
Signs that your garbage disposal needs repair include slow draining, unusual noises, frequent clogs, or leaks. If you notice any of these issues, it’s time to call High 5 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric for professional garbage disposal repair services.
How can I prevent clogs in my garbage disposal?
To prevent clogs, avoid putting fibrous foods, grease, bones, or non-food items down the disposal. Running cold water while operating the disposal also helps flush debris through the system.
When should I consider replacing my garbage disposal?
If your disposal is over 10 years old, frequently jams, or requires constant repairs, it may be more cost-effective to replace it. High 5 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric offers expert advice on whether to repair or replace your unit.
Can I use chemical drain cleaners in my garbage disposal?
No, chemical drain cleaners can damage the disposal’s blades and components. It’s better to use natural methods like baking soda and vinegar, or contact High 5 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric for safe and effective cleaning solutions.
What should I do if my garbage disposal is leaking?
A leaking garbage disposal could be caused by loose connections, damaged seals, or cracks in the unit. It’s important to have a professional from High 5 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric inspect and repair the leak to prevent further damage.
Is it normal for my garbage disposal to make loud noises?
Unusually loud noises can indicate a problem, such as a foreign object lodged in the disposal or worn-out components. Turning off the disposal and contacting High 5 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric is the safest course of action.
How often should I clean my garbage disposal?
Regular cleaning, about once a week, helps maintain your disposal’s efficiency and prevent odors. Use a combination of ice cubes, salt, and lemon peels, or ask High 5 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric about professional cleaning services.
What are the benefits of professional garbage disposal installation?
Professional installation ensures your disposal is properly fitted, reducing the risk of leaks, clogs, and electrical issues. High 5 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric provides reliable installation services for long-lasting performance.
Can a garbage disposal handle all food waste?
While disposals are designed for food waste, they can struggle with certain items like bones, fibrous vegetables, and coffee grounds. Knowing what your disposal can handle helps extend its life and efficiency.
How do I reset my garbage disposal if it stops working?
If your disposal stops working, first press the reset button located at the bottom of the unit. If it still doesn’t work, unplug the unit and check for blockages. If problems persist, contact High 5 Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric for a thorough inspection.