Items to Never Put In a Garbage Disposal

While the garbage disposal blades are powerful, they’re no match for something as hard as bones or large fruit pits.

Garbage disposals have powerful blades that can liquefy solid food in seconds. However, these blades cannot handle everything; many items can cause clogs and severe damage.

When the time comes, plumbers specialize in installing, repairing, and replacing garbage disposals. However, this can be expensive, so these machines should be cared for to last as long as possible. There are specific items never to put down a garbage disposal to keep it working smoothly and extend its life.

Bones, fruit pits, and other hard items

While the garbage disposal blades are powerful, they’re no match for something as hard as bones or large fruit pits. These hard items can dull or bend the blades and otherwise spin around in the garbage disposal without breaking down and eventually cause a blockage.

Fat and grease

Excess fat and grease from meat damage garbage disposals, drains, and pipes. These substances can coat the garbage disposal’s blades in a greasy film, making them less effective.

Fat and grease harden over time, so they can clog the drain and pipes or block them altogether. Additionally, this concoction can start to smell, creating a foul odor throughout the kitchen.

Stringy vegetables

Vegetables like celery and spinach are especially stringy and can wrap around the garbage disposal’s blades or other components. The same happens with fruit peels and eggs with an internal membrane. Any stringy objects can slowly create significant problems for a garbage disposal system.

Non-food items

It might be called a “garbage” disposal, but that doesn’t mean anything can be put down. Only let food matter enter the unit—be careful that spoons, forks, and trash, such as wrappers or plastic, don’t accidentally fall into the disposal.

Do not hesitate to contact an expert plumber when faced with any issues. They have the knowledge and expertise to quickly solve any issues with garbage disposal and return the system to working order.

Solace Plumbing is a licensed commercial and residential plumber with 26 years of experience in Gilbert, Az. We provide the East Valley with a wide range of plumbing services, including 24-hour emergency service. Some of our specialties include plumbing installation and repair, remodeling, natural gas and propane piping, slab leak detection, and full-service repiping. Commercial work includes restaurants, school districts, and tenant improvements. Call Solace Plumbing at 480-630-0224.