What You Should Not Put Down Your Garbage Disposal

A garbage disposal may seem like a magic appliance that makes everything disappear with its push-button convenience. However, these appliances are not trash cans—there are certain types of food waste that should not be put down the garbage disposal.

Express Plumbing & Rooter is a licensed plumbing company with over two decades of providing a comprehensive range of services, including garbage disposal replacement and sewer line repair. Our experienced plumbers know what goes into keeping garbage disposals in top shape and good working order. One of the common mistakes homeowners make is putting the wrong things down their garbage disposals. In this article, we will provide you with a list of items that should never be put down your garbage disposal.

• Fibrous Foods

Fibrous foods, like celery, corn husks, and asparagus, can easily get tangled in your garbage disposal’s blades. This can lead to clogs or damage to the system. It's best to dispose of these types of foods in your compost or trash to keep your disposal running smoothly.

• Starchy Foods

Potato peels, pasta, and rice may seem harmless, but they expand when wet and can cause your disposal to clog. These starchy foods form a thick paste that can easily block the drain, so it's better to throw them away or compost them rather than putting them down your disposal.

• Grease and Oils

Grease, fats, and oils may flow easily when hot, but they solidify as they cool. Our plumbers recommend that you pour leftover grease into a container and dispose of it in the trash. This small step can save you from costly plumbing issues down the road.

• Bones and Shells

Bones and shells from seafood or nuts are too tough for your garbage disposal to break down. They can damage the blades or get stuck in the pipes. Disposing of these items in the trash or compost is a safer option that will protect your disposal and pipes.

• Eggshells

Eggshells may seem like an easy disposal item, but they can cause problems. While some may say they help sharpen blades, they can actually get stuck in the disposal or pipes and create a clog. It’s best to toss them in the compost or trash instead of your disposal.

• Large Pieces of Food

Large chunks of food can overwhelm your garbage disposal and clog the drain. It's important to break up food into smaller pieces before running it through the disposal. This will ensure that your system works efficiently and prevent unnecessary blockages or damage to your pipes.

• Non-Food Items

Your garbage disposal is only meant for food waste. Items like plastic, glass, or metal can damage the blades or cause blockages. Never put non-food items down your disposal. These can lead to expensive pipe repairs or even cause the disposal to stop working altogether.

Contact Express Plumbing &Rooterfor Sewer Line Repair

Putting the wrong items down your drains can cause a wide range of problems, including clogged sewer lines. A clogged sewer line can lead to slow drains, sewage backup, and foul odors. When you need professional pipe repair services, reach out to Express Plumbing & Rooter. Our plumbers use video camera inspection and hydro jetting to effectively diagnose and clear even the most stubborn clogs.Contact us.