Thanksgiving is next week and brings us to the time of the year when we really put our kitchen garbage disposal through the paces. Not only do we put a larger volume of “stuff” thru the disposal, but we do things that are hazardous to its operation.
DO NOT PUT THE FOLLOWING DOWN YOUR DISPOSAL
Grease, oil and fat – it will solidify, build up and clog your pipes causing expensive repairs. Put it in a can overnight and throw it away the next day.
Artichokes, banana peels, celery, corn husks, beans and asparagus – jamming may occur, possibly burning out the motor
Potato peels, pasta and rice – they can turn into a thick paste and also cause jamming
Coffee grounds – they may seem small and insignificant, but over time they can build up and create a sediment like material that can cause clogging
Large fruit pits or large animal bones – too dense and can create too much stress on the disposal system
Non-food waste – tin cans, glass, bottles, china, leather, cloth, rubber, plastic or string
THESE ARE GOOD AND NECESSARY THINGS TO DO
Only grind food waste when using a strong flow of cold water
Allow the disposal and water to run two minutes after grinding. This permits water to flush through the drain lines to the main sewer and help prevent costly drain line clogs.
Allow the disposal and cold water to run after draining the sink of dish water. Some detergents are caustic and flushing will pass such material into the drain line without disposal damage.
Replace cover or sink strainer while the unit is idle. Foreign material will be prevented from accidentally dropping into the disposal
Run the dishwasher after using the disposal. Waste is prevented from drying in the dishwasher drain and clogging the drain
HOW ABOUT SOME MAINTENANCE ITEMS
Grind up egg shells, small fruit pits and small chicken bones to help clean the side of the disposal
Put orange slices or lemon peels thru the disposal to keep it smelling fresh
To remove stubborn odors, put baking soda into the drain and let it sit for several hours before running water and the disposal
Once or twice a month, grind up some pieces of ice to help keep the blades sharp
WHAT IF IT DOES NOT WORK
Needs a reset – check for a red or black reset button
Look for a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker
Use a hand crank underneath to free up a stuck disposal
IF IT LEAKS OR DOES NOT DRAIN – TIME TO CALL THE PEARSON GUY AT 815-398-8312
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