Your garbage disposal is one of the most essential appliances in your kitchen. It helps you quickly and easily eliminate food waste, making cleaning after meals a breeze. But like any other appliance, your garbage disposal needs proper maintenance and care to ensure it continues to function properly.
This guide will discuss everything you need to know about maintaining your garbage disposal. From calling a professional garbage disposal installation in Somerset to daily maintenance and troubleshooting common issues, this blog has you covered.
Garbage Disposal Installation
If you’re moving into a new home or replacing an old garbage disposal, proper installation is crucial for its performance and longevity. While it’s always best to hire a professional plumber for installation, if you’re feeling confident in your handy skills, here are the general steps to follow:
- Before installing your new garbage disposal, turn off the power to your kitchen at the circuit breaker. Safety first!
- Next, remove the old disposal by disconnecting it from the mounting assembly and then detaching the drain pipes.
- Now it’s time to install the new disposal. Begin by attaching the mounting assembly to the bottom of your sink using a plumber’s putty or a rubber seal.
- Then, attach the disposal unit to the mounting assembly, making sure to line up the three mounting tabs.
- Connect the drain pipes and secure everything using a wrench or pliers.
- Finally, turn on the power and test your new garbage disposal!
It’s important to note that every model of garbage disposal may have slightly different installation instructions, so always refer to your specific product’s manual for the best results.
Daily Maintenance
To keep your garbage disposal running smoothly, you should incorporate some simple daily maintenance tasks into your routine. Here are some tips:
- Run cold water for a few seconds before and after using the disposal to help flush out any remaining food particles.
- Avoid putting hard or fibrous items like bones, fruit pits, or potato peels into the disposal. They can damage the blades and clog the drain.
- Regularly clean your garbage disposal by pouring a mixture of ice cubes and rock salt down the drain and running cold water. This will help remove any buildup or debris from the blades.
- You can also pour a small amount of dish soap down the drain while the disposal is running to help eliminate odors.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with proper installation and daily maintenance, you may encounter some issues with your garbage disposal. Here are common problems and how to troubleshoot them:
- If the disposal won’t turn on, ensure it is plugged in and the circuit breaker has not tripped. Check for clogs or blockages in the drain.
- If you notice a leak, check for loose connections and tighten them if necessary. If that doesn’t solve the issue, the leak may come from a crack in the disposal unit, which will need replacing.
- If your disposal is making strange noises or not grinding food properly, something may be stuck in the blades. Turn off the power to the disposal and use tongs or pliers to carefully remove any debris.
Proper installation, daily maintenance, and troubleshooting skills can ensure your garbage disposal stays in top working condition. Always follow safety precautions and refer to your product’s manual for specific instructions. With your trusty garbage disposal, you can enjoy a clean and efficient kitchen. So why wait? Install yours today!
