How to Make Your Garbage Disposal Last Longer

At Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we are committed to helping homeowners keep their garbage disposals in top shape. You can always rely on our team when you need garbage disposal replacement or repairs. In this post, we’ll share tips on how to make your new garbage disposal last for the next decade.

Always Use Cold Water

One of the easiest ways to protect your garbage disposal is to run cold water before, during, and after using it. This isn’t just a suggestion; it is part of how these appliances are designed to work. Cold water helps solidify grease and fats so they can be chopped into smaller pieces and flushed through the drain instead of coating the inside of the disposal or pipes. Let the water run for about 15 to 20 seconds after turning the disposal off to ensure all food particles are washed away. Avoid using boiling water, as it makes the food waste mushy and stick to the impellers rather than being washed away.

Dispose Of the Right Food

A common mistake homeowners make that shortens a garbage disposal’s lifespan is putting the wrong foods down the appliance. Certain foods like starchy & expanding foods, eggshells, coffee grounds, fibrous vegetables, and grease are best placed in the trash instead of the garbage disposal. These food items can damage the appliance and result in stubborn clogs. Proper use can add years to your disposal’s lifespan.

Keep The Disposal Running a Little Longer

This is a simple trick, but it can really go far in keeping your garbage disposal working properly for years. Leave the appliance operational with water running for a minute or two after grinding stops. This practice ensures no food pieces are left stuck in the disposal.

Regularly Clean the Disposal

At least once a month, clean the garbage disposal by pouring baking soda and white vinegar into the disposal. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes and flush the disposal with boiling water. Afterwards, grind ice chips and rock salt in the disposal to remove buildup and freshen the appliance by grinding citrus peels.

Note: Never pour liquid chemical cleaners into your garbage disposal. These products can cause disposal corrosion, damage your pipes, and cause more problems down the road. If you need help with troubleshooting your garbage disposal, call a trusted plumbing repair service that specializes in garbage disposal services.

Schedule Repairs Promptly

If your disposal frequently jams, leaks, drains slowly, or requires constant resetting, don't ignore the warning signs. Minor problems often become major repairs if left unresolved. A licensed plumber can inspect the unit, identify worn components, and recommend repairs before the motor or grinding assembly fails completely. It’s also important to remember that a garbage disposal does not last forever--you can maximize its lifespan, but the appliance has to be replaced at some point. A trusted plumbing repair service can perform a comprehensive inspection and help you determine whether it’s time to install a new garbage disposal.

Do You Need Garbage Disposal Replacement? Contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing Today

If your garbage disposal has come to the end of its lifespan or has become inefficient, call Mr. Rooter Plumbing for garbage disposal replacement. Our licensed and insured plumbers have the skills and experience to replace all types and models of garbage disposals. We’ll help you select a disposal that matches your needs and install it properly. Call us now to request a free estimate!