Picture this – it’s the day before Thanksgiving, and mashed potatoes for 30 guests need to be prepared. That’s a whole lot of peels. Now, imagine what would happen if, mid-way through the peeling process, the sink became impossibly clogged. Food scraps and water would wind up everywhere. Frustration would escalate quickly as every attempt would be made to clear the drain. If the clog were bad enough, the next step would be to call a plumber to make an emergency house call to dislodge the clog, clear the drain, and perform any necessary repairs. However, this situation can be entirely avoided with a garbage disposal that is in good working order.
Garbage Disposals Prevent Clogged Drains
Garbage disposals pulverize food scraps into tiny bits inside a grinding chamber. Garbage disposals operate using impellers, which are metal “teeth” that spin inside the grinding chamber, reducing the food into tiny fragments. Water enters the chamber and washes the food away, leaving the drain free of obstructions. Without a disposal, food scraps that are too large can quickly accumulate in the drain and cause a clog. Clogs can become nearly impossible to dislodge without the help of a professional plumber.
Food scraps can also cause clogs deep within the pipes, causing an even bigger problem. There is also less pressure on the drain pipes due to the small size of the food fragments, reducing the risk of a pipe leak.
How To Protect the Garbage Disposal
First and foremost, have regular, routine maintenance done on the garbage disposal. This is the best way to prevent a small problem from becoming a large one. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Some items should never go through the garbage disposal, like hot grease, pasta, coffee grounds, oatmeal, bones, fibrous vegetables, and non-food items. These are all notorious for damaging garbage disposals and causing clogs. Also, remember to always run cold water when the garbage disposal is in use so that the food particles are completely washed out of the grinding chamber.
When To Call for Garbage Disposal Repair
It is necessary to call for garbage disposal repair when:
- The garbage disposal is making a humming noise but is not grinding food, or the garbage disposal is on but is silent
- The garbage disposal is connected to the power supply but is not turning on
- The water is draining excessively slowly
- A leak is present
- A lingering, foul odor pervades from the sink
- A clog is present that cannot be dislodged. Remember, it is unsafe to attempt to remove a clog if the garbage disposal is powered on and plugged in!
About Point Loma Electric and Plumbing
Since 1988, Point Loma Electric and Plumbing has been providing excellent plumbing and electrical service in the San Diego area. Point Loma Electric and Plumbing is committed to its core values of integrity, pride in workmanship, customer service, and constant improvement. As a result, the company has an impeccable reputation and stellar customer reviews. Give them a call for kitchen plumbing services in San Diego.
