What Foods are Not Safe for My Garbage Disposal?
Garbage disposals are a convenient kitchen appliance that helps to efficiently dispose of food waste. However, not all foods are suitable for this handy device. In fact, there are several foods that can cause garbage disposal issues if disposed of improperly. In this guide, we’ll explore the top foods you should avoid putting down your garbage disposal to avoid having garbage disposal issues.
1. Grease and Cooking Oils Are Bad for Your Pipes
If you live in the South, you know that fried food is a staple. Suncoast Plumbing has answered many calls after grease has been poured down a garbage disposal. Pouring grease and cooking oils down the disposal may seem harmless, but it can lead to serious problems. According to plumbing experts, grease and oils can solidify and coat the inside of your disposal and pipes, causing clogs and potentially damaging the unit over time. Instead, it’s best to collect grease in a container and dispose of it in the trash once it has cooled and solidified. (PlumbingSupply.com)
2. Keep Eggshells Out of Your Garbage Disposal
While eggshells may seem harmless, they can actually cause issues with your garbage disposal. The thin membrane inside the eggshell can wrap around the disposal blades, leading to blockages and reduced efficiency. It’s best to dispose of eggshells in the trash or use them for composting instead.
3. Coffee Grounds Can Solidify in Your Pipes
Who doesn’t love a good cup of coffee? If you still use traditional coffee makers with filters, you might be tempted to dump them down your sink. Coffee grounds may seem small and harmless, but they can accumulate and form a sludgy mass in your garbage disposal and pipes. Over time, this can lead to clogs and unpleasant odors. Instead of rinsing coffee grounds down the disposal, consider composting them or disposing of them in the trash. (The Spruce)
4. Potato Peels are Too Starchy for Your Pipes
As much as we all love baked potatoes and french fries, potato peels are starchy and can turn into a thick paste when mixed with water, causing clogs in your garbage disposal. Additionally, the fibrous nature of potato peels can wrap around the disposal blades, leading to blockages and reduced performance. It’s best to dispose of potato peels in the trash or compost them instead. (Roto Rooter)
5. Bones Are Too Hard for Your Garbage Disposal Blades
The Charleston area is known for its cook outs, picnics, and parties. Invariably, someone is going to bring fried chicken or wings! Make sure you have convenient trash cans around because hard bones should never be put down the garbage disposal, as they can damage the disposal blades and potentially lead to motor burnout. Instead, dispose of bones in the trash or consider composting them if possible. (Angie’s List)
In conclusion, while garbage disposals are a convenient tool for disposing of food waste, it’s important to be mindful of what you put down them. By avoiding foods like grease, eggshells, coffee grounds, potato peels, and bones, you can help to prevent clogs and damage to your garbage disposal unit. Remember to always follow the advice of plumbing experts and dispose of food waste responsibly to keep your kitchen running smoothly.
If you made a mistake and need some help in the Charleston or Summerville, SC, areas, call Mike at Suncoast Plumbing (843) 732-0244 or fill out our contact form below.
