Garbage disposals have been around since the late 1930s. While these plumbing appliances may not be popular in other parts of the world, nearly half of all American households have a kitchen sink disposal. If you have a disposal, you already know how beneficial this appliance is in terms of keeping food waste out of your trash cans and making clean-up a cinch. You also may be familiar with that sinking feeling in the pit of your stomach when you turn on your garbage disposal and aren’t greeted with its familiar rumble.

At Vista Plumbing and Rooter Pros, we offer a wide variety of services with garbage disposal repair and replacement being one of the top plumbing service calls we get each day. Why do these useful appliances cause so much grief? Usually, it has more to do with the operator than the machine.

Maintenance Tips for Your Residential Garbage Disposal

We’re more than happy to send a local, Vista, CA, plumber to your home to make repairs, but we know you’d rather use your hard-earned money for something else. Luckily, many garbage disposal problems can be avoided by following manufacturer recommendations for use. Here are some things you can do to keep your disposal running without problems:

Be mindful of the food you put in the disposal. Most residential disposals are not designed to handle large amounts of food at one time. They also are not designed to accept peels and skins from foods like onions, potatoes, and carrots (to mention just a few). Adding too much food at once to the disposal or the wrong types can lead to clogs and damaged blades.

Keep cooking oil and grease away from your kitchen sink. Not only are these products enemies of garbage disposals, but they can also create problems for your drainage pipes.

Clean your disposal by running cold water with dish detergent through the disposal. Don’t use store bought cleaners. If you want to freshen up your disposal, stop by the produce department at the grocery store and buy a lemon. Lemons, when cut up and run through the disposal, are wonderful at getting rid of nasty odors.

Ask about Our Installation Specials and Discounts

Do you need a new garbage disposal? Our certified plumbing contractors are available to help you purchase and install a new appliance. They will help you choose a model that is affordable and guaranteed to last for many years to come with proper usage.

Additional Plumbing Services

Did you know we can also help you with repair and replacement services like swapping out a water-guzzling toilet with a high-efficiency one? Or, that we can help you install a sink in your laundry room? We’re a one-stop plumbing service for Vista residents. Call today to learn more!