Garbage Disposal Repair and Installation in Long Beach, Los Angeles County, and Orange County, CA

Proper maintenance of your garbage disposal can extend its life and ensure it runs efficiently. Here are some essential tips from Prodigy Plumbing & HVAC to keep your unit in top shape:

Run Cold Water – Always run cold water before, during, and after using your garbage disposal to ensure all food waste is properly flushed. Cold water helps solidify any grease or oils, preventing them from sticking to the blades and clogging the pipes. Let the water run for at least 30 seconds after grinding to flush out any remaining food particles.

Avoid Fibrous Foods – Fibrous foods like celery, corn husks, and potato peels can wrap around the blades and cause jams. Dispose of these items in the trash can instead. This will prevent clogging and reduce strain on your garbage disposal.

Regular Cleaning – Clean your garbage disposal regularly to prevent buildup and eliminate unpleasant odors, especially under the cover plate. Grind a mixture of ice cubes and citrus peels to clean the blades and remove foul odors. You can also use a small amount of baking soda followed by vinegar to keep your disposal fresh and clean.

Avoid Hard Objects – Never put hard objects like bones, fruit pits, or metal utensils into your garbage disposal. These can damage the blades and motor, leading to costly repairs. Stick to grinding soft food scraps like vegetable and fruit peels.

Use It Frequently – Regular use of your garbage disposal helps prevent rust and corrosion on the discharge tube. It also keeps all parts moving and prevents obstructions from forming. If you have an old disposal that is not used often, consider running it periodically with cold water to maintain its functionality.