While your garbage disposal might seem like a catch-all solution for kitchen waste, certain food items can cause clogs, damage the blades, and lead to costly repairs. C. Lee Services, the go-to plumber in Akron, OH, shares a list of food items you should avoid putting down on your garbage disposal to keep it in good working condition.
Fibrous and Stringy Vegetables
Celery, corn husks, asparagus, and artichoke stalks can wrap around the disposal blades, hindering their movement and potentially causing a jam. To avoid the hassle of calling for plumbing repairs to remove a tangled mess from your garbage disposal, throw these items in the compost or trash bin instead.
Coffee Grounds
Coffee grounds are surprisingly abrasive and can settle in the disposal and pipes, creating clogs over time.
Nuts and Eggshells
Despite their organic nature, nutshells are surprisingly tough. They can dull the disposal blades and even cause them to break. Eggshells, while a common misconception, won't sharpen the blades. In fact, the membrane can contribute to clogs. Like the items mentioned above, your trusted plumbing company would recommend disposing of these materials in the proper bin.
Potato Peels
Potato peels contain a lot of starch, which can turn into a thick, sticky paste when ground up in your disposal. This paste can clog your pipes and cause your garbage disposal to overwork. Toss your potato peels in the trash along with other starchy foods like rice and pasta.
Grease, Oil, and Fat
While not technically a food item, grease, oil, and fat are often byproducts of cooking. These substances can solidify in your garbage disposal and pipes, causing blockages that require professional plumbing services to remove. Instead of pouring these liquids down the drain, allow them to cool and dispose of them in a sealed container in the trash. Or, consider bringing your used cooking oil to a recycling center, where it can be converted into biofuel.
Taking proper care of your garbage disposal will not only save you from costly emergency plumbing repairs but also help extend its lifespan. C. Lee Services is the team to call for all your plumbing needs in Akron, OH. Whether you need garbage disposal maintenance, repairs, or replacement, we have the expertise to get the job done right. Contact our team today to schedule an appointment.
