Property Management Spotlight: Tips for Extending the Lifespan of your garbage disposal
Property Management Spotlight: Tips for Extending the Lifespan of your garbage disposal
Keeping up with your home’s garbage disposal might seem like a small task, but it has huge benefits. As our property expert Lucy Hinson explains, regular upkeep of this important kitchen appliance has huge benefits.
While it might not cross your mind often, your garbage disposal is an essential appliance in your kitchen that deserves some care and attention. While not overly expensive, preventative care of your disposal can save you from costly plumbing issues in the future. After all, your garbage disposal is connected to your home’s plumbing system. When you grind food waste, it travels through a network of pipes—so it’s important to ensure your disposal is functioning properly to avoid clogging or damage.
Here are some key tips to help keep your garbage disposal running smoothly:
Run it Regularly
Using your garbage disposal frequently helps keep it in good working order. A well-used disposal is less likely to develop issues, as it keeps food waste moving through the system.
Use Cold Water
Always run cold water while using your disposal. Cold water helps solidify any fats or oils, making it easier for the disposal to grind them up without causing clogs in the pipes.
Avoid Large Food Chunks
To prevent overworking the motor, avoid putting large food pieces into the disposal. Cut larger items into smaller pieces before grinding.
Clean it Every Two Weeks
Regular cleaning prevents buildup that can cause odors and reduce efficiency. Clean your disposal at least once every two weeks to maintain its performance.
Grind Thoroughly
Always ensure that the disposal has ground the food completely before turning it off. This prevents leftover debris from clogging the pipes.
Keep Fibrous Foods Out
Certain foods like celery, corn husks, and potato peels can cause blockages because they tangle around the blades. Avoid putting these fibrous materials down the disposal.
Skip the Bones and Eggshells
While it might seem tempting, bones and eggshells can damage the blades or cause clogs. They should never be put in the disposal.
By following these simple tips, you’ll help ensure your garbage disposal works efficiently for years to come, avoiding unnecessary plumbing headaches and costly repairs.
If you have any questions about your rental properties or questions about rental homes,
how to get your homes listed to ReMax Heritage, feel free to reach out to our amazing
Property Manager, Lucy Hinson, at lucy@bardellrealestate.com.