When it comes to our kitchens, garbage disposers stand as silent allies, efficiently handling food waste and easing our daily chores.
Garbage disposers, commonly found beneath kitchen sinks, are electrically powered devices designed to shred food waste into tiny particles, allowing them to pass through plumbing.
These devices provide a convenient and eco-friendly solution for managing kitchen leftovers. Professional plumbing installations and repairs by expert plumbers can ensure a well-functioning garbage disposer.
However, amidst their indispensable role, a cloud of myths has cast doubt on their capabilities. So, let’s debunk some garbage disposer myths.
Myth 1: Garbage Disposers Are a One-Stop Solution for All Food Waste
Fact: While garbage disposers can handle many types of food waste, they are not designed to process everything. Hard items like bones, fruit pits, and seafood shells can damage the disposer’s blades.
Fibrous foods such as celery and corn husks can also cause clogs. It’s essential to use the disposer for softer, organic waste and dispose of tougher items separately.
Myth 2: Garbage Disposers Require Regular Use to Stay Functional
Fact: Some believe that using the garbage disposer regularly is necessary to keep it in working order. However, disposers benefit from occasional use rather than constant operation.
Infrequent use allows the disposer’s components to remain lubricated without overworking the system. Be mindful of the types of waste you introduce, and use the disposer as needed.
Myth 3: Citrus Peels Clean and Freshen the Garbage Disposer
Fact: While citrus peels can provide a pleasant scent, they don’t effectively clean the disposer’s components. The acid in citrus fruits might offer a temporary freshening effect, but it’s not a substitute for thorough cleaning.
Use ice cubes or specialized cleaning products to eliminate debris and odors and ensure a hygienic disposer.
Myth 4: Garbage Disposers Harm the Environment
Fact: When used responsibly, garbage disposers can be environmentally friendly. Proper waste disposal reduces the volume of organic waste sent to landfills.
Modern disposers are designed to be energy-efficient, and wastewater treatment facilities can process the byproducts. Responsible use, coupled with mindful waste sorting, contributes to a more eco-friendly kitchen.
Myth 5: Garbage Disposers Are Maintenance-Free
Fact: Garbage disposers, like any appliance, benefit from regular maintenance. Periodic cleaning, inspecting for wear and tear, and addressing minor issues promptly can extend the disposer’s lifespan.
Ignoring maintenance needs can lead to clogs, foul odors, and premature failure. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for proper care.
Myth 6: Disposers Can Handle All Greasy Waste
Fact: While some fats and oils can go down the disposer with cold water, excessive grease is a recipe for disaster.
Over time, grease can solidify in the plumbing, leading to clogs and blockages. It’s advisable to dispose of grease in a separate container and discard it in the trash.
Myth 7: Running Hot Water While Using the Disposer Prevents Clogs
Fact: While it’s beneficial to use cold water during operation to solidify grease and fats, the idea that hot water prevents clogs is a misconception. Hot water can contribute to the breakdown of grease, but it may solidify farther down the plumbing line, potentially leading to clogs.
It’s better to avoid the grease from getting into the machine. Stick to cold water for disposal and run it for a few seconds after turning off the disposer to flush out the remaining debris.
Myth 8: Disposers Increase Water Usage Dramatically
Fact: Garbage disposers, when used efficiently, don’t significantly impact water consumption. Modern disposers are designed to work with minimal water, and responsible usage won’t result in a substantial increase in water usage. Proper waste sorting and disposal can also contribute to water conservation.
Expert Garbage Disposer Installation And Repair By Your 1 Plumber
At Your 1 Plumber, we offer top-quality plumbing services when it comes to garbage disposer installation, maintenance, and repair. We have been offering our affordable, high-standard services in Germantown, Silver Spring, Frederick, Columbia, and other Maryland areas for over 15 years now. Our plumbers can troubleshoot the issues and help you with a well-functioning system.
So, get in touch with us now for a high-quality garbage disposer from the InSinkErator Evolution or Badger series.Kitchen waste