The California Plumbing Pros have tons of experience helping property owners to maintain their home mechanical systems year-round. Properly maintaining your garbage disposal is essential for its longevity and efficient operation. By following a few simple guidelines, you can prevent clogs, unpleasant odors, and costly repairs. Our team of master plumbing pros works on commercial and residential plumbing projects and has years of experience installing and repairing garbage disposals.
Simple Tips To Keep A Garbage Disposal Odor-Free and Working Properly
- Regular cleaning: To prevent buildup of food residue and odors, clean your garbage disposal regularly. Start by turning off the power to the unit and use a long-handled brush or a toothbrush to scrub the inside of the disposal. You can also use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar or lemon juice to remove any lingering odors. Finish by running cold water for a minute to flush away any remaining debris.
- Avoiding harmful substances: Be cautious about what you put down your garbage disposal. Avoid disposing of hard items like bones, fruit pits, or seafood shells, as they can damage the blades or motor. Additionally, avoid pouring grease, oil, or fats down the disposal, as they can solidify and cause clogs. Instead, dispose of these items in the trash or recycle them appropriately.
- Grinding citrus peels: To maintain a fresh-smelling disposal, consider grinding citrus peels once a week. The natural oils in citrus fruits help eliminate unpleasant odors. Cut up small pieces of citrus peels, such as lemons or oranges, and feed them into the running disposal. This not only freshens up the unit but also helps clean the blades.
- Running water during and after use: Always remember to run cold water while using the garbage disposal. This helps flush the waste through the drain pipes and prevents clogs. Keep the water running for a few seconds after you turn off the disposal to ensure that all the debris is washed away. Running water regularly also helps prevent any buildup of grease or oil in the pipes.
By following these maintenance practices, you can keep your garbage disposal in excellent condition and avoid common issues. Regular cleaning, avoiding harmful substances, grinding citrus peels, and running water during and after use are simple steps that contribute to a garbage disposal that works when you need it and most importantly, is one that is odor-free.
