Why Plumbers Avoid Putting Certain Items in Garbage Disposals
Plumbers are well aware of the convenience and efficiency of garbage disposals in kitchens. However, there are certain items that should never be put down a garbage disposal to avoid clogs, damage, and costly repairs. Here are 11 things that plumbers would never put in a garbage disposal:
1. Grease and Oil
– When grease and oil are poured down a garbage disposal, they can solidify and cause clogs in the pipes.
– Instead, pour grease and oil into a container and dispose of it in the trash.
2. Potato Peels
– Potato peels are starchy and can create a thick paste when mixed with water, leading to clogs.
– It is best to compost potato peels or dispose of them in the trash.
3. Coffee Grounds
– Coffee grounds can accumulate and create a sludgy mess in the disposal.
– Dispose of coffee grounds in the trash or use them as compost.
4. Eggshells
– Eggshells can stick to the blades of the disposal and cause damage.
– It is better to compost eggshells or dispose of them in the trash.
5. Bones
– Bones are too hard and can damage the blades of the disposal.
– Dispose of bones in the trash or use them for making broth.
6. Fruit Pits
– Fruit pits are too hard and can cause the disposal to jam.
– Dispose of fruit pits in the trash.
7. Pasta and Rice
– Pasta and rice can expand in water and cause clogs in the pipes.
– Dispose of pasta and rice in the trash.
8. Fibrous Vegetables
– Fibrous vegetables like celery and asparagus can wrap around the disposal blades and cause clogs.
– It is best to dispose of fibrous vegetables in the trash.
9. Stringy Foods
– Stringy foods like corn husks and onion skins can get tangled in the disposal blades.
– Dispose of stringy foods in the trash.
10. Shells
– Shells from seafood like shrimp and crab can damage the disposal blades.
– Dispose of shells in the trash.
11. Non-Food Items
– Non-food items like bottle caps and plastic utensils should never be put in a garbage disposal.
– Dispose of non-food items in the trash.
By avoiding putting these items in a garbage disposal, homeowners can prevent clogs, damage, and the need for expensive repairs. It is important to follow these guidelines to keep the kitchen running smoothly and efficiently.
Questions and Answers:
– Why is it important to avoid putting certain items in a garbage disposal?
– Avoiding certain items in a garbage disposal helps prevent clogs, damage, and costly repairs.
– What should be done with items that should not be put in a garbage disposal?
– Items that should not be put in a garbage disposal should be disposed of in the trash or composted.
– How can homeowners maintain the efficiency of a garbage disposal?
– Homeowners can maintain the efficiency of a garbage disposal by avoiding putting certain items, regularly cleaning it, and using it properly.
