Garbage Disposal Safety Tips: What You Need to Know

What is a Garbage Disposal and how does it work?

Garbage disposals are essential kitchen appliances that help dispose of food waste efficiently. They work by grinding food scraps into small particles that can easily flow through your plumbing system. Inside the unit, spinning blades powered by an electric motor break down the waste, which is then flushed away with water. Modern garbage disposals are equipped with advanced safety features to prevent clogs and damage.

Garbage disposals are convenient for disposing of organic food waste, such as fruit and vegetable peels, small bones, and leftovers. However, like any appliance, they can sometimes encounter issues. If your garbage disposal stopped working, it might be due to a clog, a jammed blade, or even an electrical issue. Regular maintenance and proper use can prevent these problems and ensure the appliance runs smoothly.

Garbage disposals units are ideal for disposing of food waste like:

• Vegetable and fruit peels
• Eggshells
• Small amounts of coffee grounds

However, materials like grease, fibrous foods (e.g., celery), or large bones should not be placed in the disposal to avoid clogs or damage.

How to Use a Garbage Disposal Properly

To keep your garbage disposal in good condition, follow these steps:

1. Run cold water before turning on the disposal.
2. Gradually feed small amounts of food waste into the disposal.
3. Avoid grinding large or hard items, such as bones or fibrous vegetables.
4. Keep the disposal running for a few seconds after grinding to flush the system.
5. Never use hot water while grinding, as it can melt grease and cause clogs.

How to Unclog a Garbage Disposal

A clogged garbage disposal can disrupt your kitchen routine. Here’s how to clear it:

• Turn off the power to the disposal.
• Use a hex key to manually rotate the blades and loosen debris.
• Remove any visible blockages with tongs or pliers—never use your hands!
• Reset the unit and test its operation.

If the clog persists, call Butler Plumbing for professional assistance.

How to Clean a Garbage Disposal

Cleaning your garbage disposal regularly ensures it operates smoothly and eliminates bad odors. Food debris can accumulate over time, leading to smells. Here’s how to clean it:

• Pour a cup of baking soda into the disposal, followed by a cup of vinegar. Let it fizz for a few minutes.
• Rinse with hot water.
• Grind a few ice cubes and citrus peels to remove debris and leave a fresh scent.

How to Remove a Garbage Disposal Unit

If you need to remove your garbage disposal, follow these steps to remove it safely:

1. Turn off the power at the circuit breaker.
2. Disconnect the disposal from the sink and plumbing.
3. Unscrew the mounting assembly and carefully detach the unit.
4. Dispose of the old unit according to local waste management guidelines.

Garbage Disposal Stopped Working Completely

• Cause: This may be due to an electrical issue, such as a tripped circuit or a disconnected power cord.
• Solution: Check the reset button on the bottom of the unit. If it’s popped out, press it to reset the disposal. Verify the power connection and check your circuit breaker.

Note: If you’re unsure, contact a professional plumber like Butler Plumbing for Garbage Disposal repair.

When to Call a Professional

If your garbage disposal stopped working and troubleshooting doesn’t fix the issue, it may be time to call a professional plumber. They can identify problems like severe clogs, electrical malfunctions, or motor failure. Regular maintenance by a professional can also extend the life of your garbage disposal.

Need Professional Help? Contact Butler Plumbing!
Whether you’re dealing with a clogged garbage disposal or need a new installation, Butler Plumbing is here to help. Our expert plumbers offer reliable, efficient service to keep your kitchen running smoothly. Call us today to book an appointment!