How does one use the garbage disposal? Here are some quick tips.
A garbage disposal is one feature unique to American kitchens and is one of the most convenient inventions yet. It helps one get rid of trash without having to deal with any foul odors or extra cleanup. However, actually using the garbage disposal for the first time can seem intimidating. What can you put down it, and what should you avoid? Here are a few tips on how to use it best.
How to Use a Garbage Disposal
It is easy to operate this machine. First, turn on the faucet, and let cool water run down through the disposal. Next, turn on the appliance. Now that it’s prepped, pour your contents down the drain slowly and steadily, making sure no large chunks or too much go down at once. Then, let the cool water wash through it a little longer, and then turn it off. All done! Your garbage is clean gone.
What Never to Put Down a Garbage Disposal
There is much controversy concerning what you can and cannot put down a garbage disposal. According to Consumer Reports, over 1,000 Americans who use it regularly put some iffy items down the drain and didn’t know that some other items could also go down. In summary, only some food items should ever go through the appliance. Things one should never pour down include:
- FOG: The acronym summarizes fat, oil, and grease and their accompanying foods. Dairy products like butter and cream count in this category. However, some foods, like macaroni salad, might be convenient for the purpose, which is why one should only run cool water. The cool temperature will keep the FOG from liquifying and clogging the appliance.
- Starchy foods: Starchy foods like rice, potatoes, etc. can turn into mush and quickly clog the disposal. It’s better to throw and take it out.
- Large amounts of hard items: Eggshells and small bones may be accepted by your garbage disposal, but in large amounts, it can prove damaging for the blades and your plumbing.
- Hard-to-grind items: Fibrous, stringy waste like vegetable and fruit peels as well as coffee grounds are hard for the blades to chop up. They are more likely to clog the pipes.
What can go down your garbage disposal? Everything else, including corn cobs, fruit stones, cooked meat, etc. Should you need a garbage disposal repair or replacement, contact Landers Appliance!
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