A garbage disposal can help make your kitchen a more efficient and sanitary place. When installed and operating properly, these units break down food waste into small particles so they can easily flow through your plumbing system.

A Consumer Reports survey in 2020 found that just over half of Americans have a garbage disposal in their home, most of which were already installed when they moved in. Garbage disposals typically last about 11 years, so unless your unit is brand new, the odds are pretty good that you will soon be shopping for a replacement. How do you know your garbage disposal is on its last legs? It may be leaking, making weird grinding noises, or requiring a reset frequently, which is a sure sign that your unit’s motor is under strain. If the reset button isn’t helping, it probably is time to replace it.

Trying to install a garbage disposal yourself?

Whether you are installing a garbage disposal unit for the first time or finally replacing an aging or broken garbage disposal, there are many issues to look out for.

You may want to turn to the professionals at L&M Plumbing who can help ensure your unit is installed and working properly.

With the wide range of installation situations we encounter — single bowl and double bowl sinks, poor existing plumbing, lack of available space under the counter, improper electrical wiring, and water damage — even installing a garbage disposal can become a headache if you don’t do it as often as we do.

When you add the fact that electricity is involved and must be properly and safely wired, garbage disposal installation and maintenance is a job best left for the experienced professionals at L&M Plumbing, your Lehigh Valley plumber. We serve Allentown and the surrounding area. Just give us a call at (610) 756-3069 to schedule your garbage disposal repair or replacement.

Can your home handle a garbage disposal unit?

If you live in an older home (before the 1970s), you should consider whether your pipes can handle it. In newer homes with modern plastic plumbing, the food debris created by a unit may not pose a problem, but if you live in an older home with cast iron pipes, you may encounter clogging much more frequently, so you might want to skip having a garbage disposal.

Septic system users should use caution

If your home isn’t on a city sewage system and instead has a septic system, you may want to exercise caution in choosing a garbage disposal. Although manufacturers claim their units are ok to use with septic systems, you want to consider the age, type, and size of your system. The professionals at L&M Plumbing can help you make the right call. You may need to have your septic system pumped more frequently and choose to limit your use of the disposal unit. You can also ask your local septic system inspector for their advice, specific to your system and location.

Garbage disposal usage and maintenance tips

Once you have your garbage disposal installed and running, here are some garbage disposal usage and maintenance tips:

1. Use it! It helps to keep the unit from getting clogged with food and grease build-up.
2. Don’t Overload Your Garbage Disposal. Don’t put more food down the disposal than it can handle. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for the size of the unit.
3. Use a Garbage Disposer Stopper. If you have a garbage disposal stopper, use it. It will keep unintended food and other items from entering the unit.
4. Use Vinegar. You can use white vinegar to clean the garbage disposal and help with odors. You can also use a solution of vinegar, baking soda and water to clean your garbage disposal. Of course, follow manufacturer recommendations for your particular unit.
5. Dispose of Grease the Right Way. When you cook with oil, pour the oil into a can and throw it in the trash. Don’t pour it down your drain or your garbage disposal.
6. Avoid Greasy Foods. Don’t put anything greasy down the drain.
7. No potato peels. The starch in potatoes can accumulate and cause issues for your garbage disposal unit.