A garbage disposal is one of the most underrated kitchen appliances. Tucked away under the sink, it quietly handles food scraps, keeps your kitchen cleaner, and reduces the amount of organic waste that ends up in the trash. But how does it work, what types are available, and how should you maintain it? This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about your kitchen’s garbage disposal.
What Is a Garbage Disposal?
A garbage disposal is installed between the sink drain and the trap. Inside, a motor spins a grinding plate that pushes food waste against a stationary shredder ring. The food scraps break down into tiny particles, which then wash safely through your plumbing system with running water.
There are two main types of garbage disposals:
- Batch Feed Disposals
- Operate only when a cover is placed over the drain opening.
- Provide an extra layer of safety since the cover prevents objects from accidentally falling in.
- Ideal for households with children or anyone wanting more control over disposal operation.
- Continuous Feed Disposals
- Run continuously while the switch is on.
- Convenient for large meal prep or frequent cooking since you can feed scraps while it’s running.
- Most common type found in homes today.
Both options help minimize kitchen messes and keep food waste from clogging your drain.
Benefits of a Garbage Disposal
Owning a garbage disposal offers several advantages that make kitchen life easier and more efficient.
1. Improved Kitchen Hygiene
By grinding and flushing away food scraps, disposals reduce lingering odors that can develop in trash bins. This makes your kitchen smell fresher and more pleasant.
2. Time-Saving Convenience
Instead of scraping plates into the trash, you can rinse leftovers straight into the sink. This saves valuable time, especially during busy weeknights or after large gatherings.
3. Environmental Responsibility
Garbage disposals help reduce the volume of food waste sent to landfills. Less food waste decomposing in landfills means fewer methane emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment.
4. Preventing Drain Clogs
Food particles are one of the top causes of kitchen sink blockages. A properly working disposal breaks down scraps into small pieces, minimizing the risk of clogged drains.
For more details on disposal performance and repairs, check out our expert garbage disposal repair services in Long Beach, CA.
Common Garbage Disposal Issues
Even with proper use, disposals can develop problems over time. Recognizing these issues early helps prevent bigger plumbing headaches.
- Jammed Blades – Occurs when hard or fibrous materials get stuck in the grinding chamber.
- Leaks – May appear at the sink flange, dishwasher connection, or discharge pipe.
- Clogs – Often due to improper items like grease, coffee grounds, or potato peels being put down the disposal.
- Strange Noises – Rattling or humming can indicate something is stuck inside.
- Unit Not Turning On – Could be an electrical issue, tripped reset button, or a burnt-out motor.
When in doubt, it’s best to call a professional. Attempting DIY fixes without experience may worsen the damage.
What NOT to Put in a Garbage Disposal
While disposals are durable, they aren’t designed to handle everything. To avoid damage, avoid putting these items down the drain:
- Grease, oil, or fat
- Fibrous vegetables (celery, corn husks, onion skins)
- Starchy foods (potato peels, rice, pasta)
- Coffee grounds
- Eggshells in large quantities
- Bones or fruit pits
- Non-food items of any kind
Tips for Proper Garbage Disposal Maintenance
Regular care ensures your disposal runs smoothly for years. Here are some best practices:
Run Cold Water
Always run cold water while the disposal is on and for several seconds after turning it off. This helps flush particles through the pipes and keeps grease from solidifying.
Clean With Citrus
Grinding small pieces of lemon or orange rinds freshens the unit and helps remove odors naturally.
Use Ice Cubes
Occasionally grinding ice helps keep the blades sharp and clears away debris inside the chamber.
Avoid Overloading
Feed scraps gradually instead of stuffing large amounts at once. Overloading can jam the blades or overwhelm the motor.
Schedule Professional Service
If you notice leaks, persistent clogs, or unusual noises, contact a plumbing expert. For reliable help, visit our garbage disposal repair services in Long Beach.
When to Call for Professional Garbage Disposal Repair
Sometimes simple maintenance isn’t enough. Here are clear signs you need professional repair services:
- Water pooling under your sink
- Foul odors that don’t go away after cleaning
- Frequent clogging despite proper use
- Grinding noises without actual grinding action
- A disposal that hums but doesn’t spin
If you’re facing these problems, reach out through our contact page to get assistance from experienced plumbers.
Choosing the Right Garbage Disposal for Your Home
When it’s time to install a new disposal, consider these factors:
- Type: Continuous feed for convenience, batch feed for safety.
- Motor Power: Higher horsepower (½ HP, ¾ HP, 1 HP) handles tougher waste.
- Noise Level: Some models include sound insulation for quieter operation.
- Size: Make sure it fits under your sink and connects properly to your plumbing.
- Durability: Stainless steel components resist corrosion and last longer.
A professional plumber can help you choose the right model and ensure it’s installed correctly.
The Bottom Line
Your kitchen’s garbage disposal is more than just a convenience—it’s a tool for better hygiene, faster cleanup, and eco-friendly living. Understanding how it works, what it can handle, and how to maintain it will help extend its life and prevent costly repairs.
If you encounter persistent problems, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance. Explore our expert garbage disposal repair services in Long Beach, CA or reach out directly through our contact page.
