What You Should Know About Garbage Disposals
Introduction
Garbage disposals have become an integral part of modern kitchens, offering a convenient and eco-friendly way to manage food waste. These nifty appliances not only reduce the amount of organic waste sent to landfills but also make kitchen cleanup easier and more efficient. If you're considering getting a garbage disposal for your home or want to learn more about how they work and their benefits, this comprehensive guide will provide you with essential information.
1. How Garbage Disposals Work
A garbage disposal is installed beneath the kitchen sink and connected to the drainpipe. It consists of a motor and a grinding chamber with rotating blades. When you turn on the disposal, the motor powers the blades, which grind food waste into tiny particles. The water from the sink helps flush these particles down the drain, effectively disposing of the waste.
2. Types of Garbage Disposals
There are two main types of garbage disposals: continuous feed and batch feed.
Continuous Feed: The most common type, continuous feed disposals allow you to add waste while the unit is running. Simply turn on the disposal and feed the waste into the drain. It's convenient for disposing of a large amount of waste in one go.
Batch Feed: Batch feed disposals require you to load the waste into the grinding chamber and then activate the unit with a stopper lid. This type provides an added layer of safety, as the disposal cannot be turned on until the lid is in place. While not as quick as continuous feed disposals, they are safer for households with curious children.
3. What You Can Dispose Of
Garbage disposals can handle most food waste, including fruit and vegetable peels, small bones, eggshells, coffee grounds, and leftovers. The powerful blades can easily grind these items into small particles. However, certain items should never be put down a garbage disposal, as they can damage the unit or create clogs. Avoid disposing of grease or oil, large bones, fibrous vegetables like celery or corn husks, seafood shells, and non-food items such as plastic, glass, or metal.
4. Benefits of Using a Garbage Disposal
Garbage disposals offer several advantages for homeowners:
Environmental Impact: By diverting food waste from landfills, garbage disposals contribute to a more sustainable waste management system. Organic waste decomposes in landfills, releasing harmful methane gas into the atmosphere. Using a disposal reduces the environmental impact of food waste.
Improved Kitchen Hygiene: Food waste left in the trash can attract pests and create unpleasant odors. A garbage disposal eliminates the need for a trash bin filled with decaying food, helping to maintain a cleaner and more hygienic kitchen.
Time and Water Savings: Scraping dishes into the trash before washing them can be time-consuming and can lead to more water usage. With a garbage disposal, you can rinse food scraps directly down the drain, saving time and water.
Reduced Plumbing Issues: By preventing large food particles from entering the drain, a garbage disposal can help prevent clogs and blockages in your plumbing system.
5. Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance is crucial to keep your garbage disposal in excellent working condition and prolong its lifespan:
Regular Cleaning: Clean your garbage disposal regularly by grinding ice cubes to remove any residue or buildup. You can also use citrus peels or vinegar to freshen up the disposal and eliminate odors.
Avoid Fats and Oils: Refrain from pouring grease or oil down the disposal, as they can solidify and create clogs. Instead, dispose of them in a separate container and throw them in the trash.
Run Cold Water: Always run cold water while operating the disposal. Cold water helps solidify any grease or fat, making it easier to grind and flush away.
Use Gradual Feeding: Avoid overloading the disposal with a large amount of waste at once. Feed waste gradually to ensure the unit can grind it effectively.
6. Common Problems and Troubleshooting
While garbage disposals are generally reliable, they can experience occasional issues. Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them:
Jamming: If the disposal becomes jammed, turn it off immediately. Use a special wrench or an Allen wrench (provided with the disposal) to rotate it back and forth and dislodge any stuck objects. Never put your hand inside the disposal while it's still connected to the power source.
Clogging: If the drain becomes clogged, turn off the disposal and try using a plunger or a plumbing snake to clear the blockage. Avoid using chemical drain cleaners, as they can damage the disposal.
Leaking: If you notice water leaking from the disposal, it could be due to loose connections or a worn-out seal. Check the connections and, if necessary, tighten them. If the leak persists, consider calling a professional plumber.
Conclusion
Garbage disposals are a practical and eco-friendly addition to any kitchen, helping to reduce food waste while maintaining a cleaner and more efficient space. Understanding how they work, what can and cannot be disposed of, and proper maintenance and troubleshooting tips will ensure you get the most out of your garbage disposal. By choosing a garbage disposal that fits your needs and practicing responsible usage, you can contribute to a greener planet while enjoying the convenience they offer in the heart of your home.
Preferred Brand: Mountain Plumbing
Introducing the Space-Saving “STEALTH” Series
As Mountain Plumbing continues to find ways to meet the needs of our customers, we are proud to introduce the new STEALTH Series of Waste Disposers. These products offer the same high-performance features with a more compact design to save space under the kitchen sink.
STEALTH Series Features Include:
5/8 HP, 3/4 HP, and 1-1/4 HP permanent magnet high RPM means high torque and better performance
No name stamped into the rim of the flange, creating a smooth, clean look
Stellar antimicrobial technology for odor protection
Anti-Jam Technology means no extra tool is required, it is self sufficient
Safe for your septic system
Every unit comes with a LIFETIME Manufacturer Warranty
Maximize Under Sink Storage with Included STEALTHTRAP
Mountain Plumbing wants to make sure customers maximize their space savings under the kitchen sink so every STEALTH Disposer model includes a complementary STEALTHTRAP. This product directs the plumbing to that back of the cabinet when orientating the disposer discharge tube properly. The kit includes everything needed to hook up a single bowl or double bowl kitchen sink and then connect to a garbage disposer.