Your garbage disposal is a convenient and efficient way to get rid of food waste, but if it’s not maintained correctly, it can quickly become clogged and cause problems. Here are five quick tips to keep your it running smoothly:

Clean the Inside of Your Garbage Disposal

The first step is to clean the inside of your garbage disposal. A build-up of food debris can cause your disposal to run slowly or even clog. Use a stiff brush and hot water to clean the inside of the disposal. Cleaning will also help to remove any bad smells.

Avoid Putting Stringy or Fibrous Foods in the Disposal

Stringy or fibrous foods, such as celery, onion skins, and potato peels from the kitchen can quickly become wrapped around the disposal blades and cause them to clog. Avoid putting these types of food at your disposal. Such foods are better suited for the trash can. Put them in the compost bin if you have one.

Don’t Use Your Disposal to Grind Glass or Metal

It’s never a good idea to put glass or scraps of metal at your disposal. These materials can easily damage the disposal blades and cause them to break down. The grinding will also create a lot of noise.

Avoid Putting Grease Down the Drain

Grease is a major cause of clogged drains. When it mixes with water, it can create a thick, sticky substance that can easily clog your sink and pipes. If you have to dispose of grease, put it in a container and discard it in the trash. Grease should never be put down the drain.

Run Cold Water While the Disposal is Running

Running cold water while the disposal is running will help keep it clean and free of debris. The cold water will also cool down the blades of the disposal, which can help prevent them from overheating. If you don’t use enough water, the disposal will have to work harder to chop up the food, which can cause it to overheat and stop working. Also, make sure never to put your hand down the drain while the disposal is running.

The best way to keep your garbage disposal running smoothly is by performing regular maintenance. Check the blades for wear and tear, and clear any debris that may have built up. Also, be sure to lubricate the blades every few months with a bit of vegetable oil. By following these tips, you can help keep your garbage disposal running smoothly for a longer time and prevent plumbing issues.