Garbage disposals are handy appliances that help make kitchen cleanup quick and easy. But using them the wrong way can lead to clogs, odors, or even the need for garbage disposal replacement. If you live in Oakland County, MI, and want to keep your kitchen sink flowing freely, it’s important to know how to take care of your garbage disposal the right way.
At Kotz Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we’ve seen our share of disposal problems caused by what went down the drain. While a DIY repair may seem like a good idea, it’s usually not recommended. Instead, the best approach is to understand what to do—and what to avoid—so your garbage disposal stays in good working shape for years to come.
What You Should Do with Your Garbage Disposal
Run Cold Water While It’s On
Always use cold water when your garbage disposal is running. Cold water helps harden grease or oils, so the disposal can chop them up properly. Hot water may seem like the better choice, but it can melt fats and make them cling to your pipes, causing buildup and clogs.
Cut Large Items into Smaller Pieces
Even though your garbage disposal is powerful, it’s not designed to handle big chunks of food all at once. Cut up large food scraps into smaller pieces before feeding them into the unit. This makes it easier for the blades to do their job and helps prevent overloading.
Let It Run a Bit Longer
After you’ve finished grinding food waste, let the disposal run with cold water for another 10-15 seconds. This clears any remaining debris from the unit and pipes, reducing the chance of odors or blockages forming.
Use It Regularly
Believe it or not, running your garbage disposal often helps keep it in good shape. Regular use prevents rust, corrosion, and the buildup of leftover food. Even if you don’t have scraps to grind, it’s a good idea to run cold water and flip the switch now and then.
What You Shouldn’t Put in Your Garbage Disposal
Don’t Dump Grease or Oil
This is one of the most common causes of problems. Grease and oil may go down as liquids, but they eventually cool and solidify inside your pipes. Over time, this can lead to serious clogs and backup in your kitchen sink.
Avoid Starchy or Fibrous Foods
Foods like potato peels, corn husks, celery, and onion skins can tangle up the blades or turn into a thick paste that clogs your drain. These materials don’t break down well in disposals and are better tossed in the trash or compost.
Keep Coffee Grounds and Eggshells Out
Coffee grounds may seem harmless, but they clump together and can clog pipes. Eggshells are another no-no; the membranes can wrap around the blades and the shells themselves can create sand-like particles that clog the system.
Never Put Non-Food Items in the Disposal
It might sound obvious, but it’s worth repeating: garbage disposals are not trash cans. Avoid putting plastic, metal, paper, glass, or any non-food material down the drain. These can damage the disposal, dull the blades, or cause the motor to burn out.
What to Do If Your Garbage Disposal Isn’t Working
Check for Simple Fixes First
Sometimes, your garbage disposal just needs a reset. Check underneath the unit for a small red reset button. Press it and try turning the unit back on. You can also inspect to see if anything is jammed inside—but always unplug the unit or turn off the power first before reaching inside.
DIY Repairs Aren’t Always the Best Option
If a quick fix doesn’t do the trick, it might be tempting to try a DIY repair. While there are tutorials online, we don’t recommend trying to fix a garbage disposal yourself. Mistakes can lead to bigger problems or safety hazards. At Kotz, we believe it’s better to play it safe and call in the professionals.
When It’s Time for a Garbage Disposal Replacement
Garbage disposals don’t last forever. If yours is more than 10 years old, makes strange noises, smells bad even after cleaning, or breaks down often, it may be time for a new one. The good news is that Kotz Heating, Cooling & Plumbing can help you choose and install a high-quality replacement that fits your home and budget.
Trust Kotz for Plumbing Help
At Kotz Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we’ve proudly served Waterford, MI, and the surrounding Oakland County communities since 1929. We’re known for top-of-the-line products, expert installation, and friendly service built on honesty and integrity. We stand behind everything we install—and we’re here to help when you need it most.
Whether you’re dealing with a worn-out disposal or just want to upgrade to something newer and better, our skilled plumbing team can help you make the right decision.
Garbage Disposal Replacement in Oakland County
Treat your garbage disposal with care, and it will serve you well. Knowing the dos and don’ts can help you avoid clogs, smells, and breakdowns. And if you run into trouble, remember—while DIY repairs may be possible, they’re not recommended. Let the trusted team at Kotz handle your plumbing needs so you can enjoy peace of mind and a well-running kitchen.
Need help with your garbage disposal in Oakland County, MI? Contact Kotz Heating, Cooling & Plumbing today to schedule your service or consultation.
