A garbage disposal installation is a popular kitchen upgrade that adds convenience to your life at home. By directing food waste into the sewage system instead of landfills for treatment, it’s a surprisingly eco-friendly option too. Sending scraps down the sink also discourages insects and other pests from invading your trash cans. The following do’s and don’ts can help you reap the full benefits of this modern appliance in your Birmingham home.

Do Follow Proper Usage Guidelines

Run lukewarm water when using your disposal and feed food scraps into it a little at a time. Wait for the scraps to clear the disposal before adding more. After usage, let the water run for 30 seconds to clear the drain.

Don’t Ignore Foul Odors

A disposal’s moist environment is a perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Bad smells indicate the device needs a good cleaning. Grind ice cubes or slices of lemon to scrub away food particles and eliminate odors.

Don’t Put Everything down the Disposal

From cooking grease to coffee beans, certain materials can damage your disposal and clog your drains. Avoid shoving items like bones, fruit pits, corn husks and large chunks of food into the disposal.

Don’t Use Chemical Drain Cleaners

Never use an off-the-shelf drain cleaner to clear a clogged disposal. These products are highly corrosive and may damage your plumbing system. Our BioBen® product offers you a safe and easy way to keep your drains clear.

Do Get Help If You Need It

Garbage disposals come equipped with safety features that shut the device down when it clogs. The reset button is typically located at the bottom of the disposal. If the disposal still doesn’t work, contact your local Benjamin Franklin plumber for a timely repair.

Serving Birmingham and the surrounding cities, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing® of Birmingham is your choice for fast resolutions for problems with garbage disposals. Our punctual plumbers are skilled in all types of garbage disposal installations and repairs. For prompt service, call us today!