Durham Garbage Disposals

You can safely put small food scraps, soft vegetables, fruit peels, and cold water down your garbage disposal. Avoid fibrous foods, grease, bones, coffee grounds, and pasta, as they can clog or damage the system. Always run cold water before, during, and after use to help move waste through the .

Odors often come from food particles stuck in the blades or drain. You can freshen your disposal by grinding ice cubes and citrus peels or using a baking soda and vinegar rinse. Regular cleaning prevents buildup and keeps it smelling fresh.

First, check if it’s plugged in and press the reset button on the bottom of the unit. If that doesn’t work, look for a jam and try turning the blades manually with a hex key. If the unit is still unresponsive, it may need professional repair or replacement.

Most garbage disposals last between 8 and 15 years depending on usage, maintenance, and quality of the unit. Regular cleaning and avoiding harmful materials can extend its lifespan. If it frequently jams or leaks, it might be time to replace it.

No, grease and oil should never go down the disposal. They can harden in the , leading to clogs and slow drains. Instead, pour cooled grease into a container and dispose of it in the trash.

Garbage disposals make some noise, but grinding or rattling sounds could indicate something hard is stuck inside. Turn off the power and check for objects like bones, silverware, or debris. Remove anything found and run water to clear the chamber.

It’s best to use cold water during operation, as it helps solidify fats and grease so they can be chopped and flushed away. Hot water can melt grease, which may then solidify further down the . After running the disposal, you can use hot water for general cleaning.

Yes, regular cleaning, running cold water during use, and avoiding non-disposable items help keep it running smoothly. Occasionally grinding ice or using a vinegar rinse can clean the blades and eliminate odors. Routine care extends the life and efficiency of your disposal.