Updated July 2024. Originally posted April 2012.
One of the most dreaded home appliance malfunctions is that of the garbage disposer. It seems to always break when company is en route and you are elbow deep in potato peels.
In the past, you may have had the little garbage pail beside the sink to collect the food waste, so the trash can did not grow too fragrant. But today, most of us rely on the hidden “In-Sinkerator.” This hardworking device pulverizes waste for us, but too often it is an appliance that we use and abuse.
I have heard crazy tales of things homeowners have tried to pass through its steel blades. The garbage disposal is a pretty tough machine, but deserves some respect to keep it working and you safe. Most disposers will last 15-20 years if you treat it right.
WATCH: What to Put in Your Garbage Disposal: 7 Nevers and 1 Always
How to Keep Your Garbage Disposal Running Well
A well-maintained garbage disposal can last many, many years. Here’s how to avoid calling a repair person:
- Run tap water before and after turning on and off the disposal. Never run dry.
- Cold water is better than hot. Seems odd right? You may think hot water melts the grease, but hot water makes the grease coat the pipe walls like cholesterol in your veins! Cold water congeals the greasy goo, pushing it along. Cold water also cools the motor.
- Don’t over-stuff the disposal. Blades need room to rotate. Run it when half full.
- Toss a handful of ice cubes in every few weeks to sharpen blades. It really works.
- Drop in lemon sections to deodorize (cut off rinds first).
- Avoid stringy fruit and veggies like bananas and celery.
- Don’t put coffee grounds into the disposer. This just clogs up drains.
- Avoid raw meats. Chicken and beef cuttings can wrap around the blades.
- Never use liquid in garbage disposers. They can ruin motor parts and become a splash danger to you or others.
- Remember that your dishwasher drain is often tied into your disposer. Sometimes water backs up into your sink and that water can back up into your dishwasher. It backwashes on your dishes – GROSS. Be sure to run the disposer clean before you start every load of dishes.
How to Fix a Jammed Garbage Disposal
First of all, NEVER put your hand into the disposer! I know, we’ve all done it. But it’s very easy to get hurt. Instead, use a long spoon handle or pliers to grab any stuck debris.
You can also use a disposer wrench to loosen the blades from underneath the motor housing. You can find these handy tools, which are a kind of Allen wrench, for $5-10 at your local home center. Tape it to the inside of the sink cabinet so the whole family can access it when there’s a jam.
$10 now or $200 for a plumber: That’s a no-brainer!
And if the motor isn’t running at all? Try this quick fix.
Simple maintenance and proper use can keep your disposer running smoothly. If you need a new one, invest in a good quality unit with enough horsepower to meet your family’s needs. Also, make sure the contractor who installs it gives you the warranty information and receipt.
WATCH: The Empowered Homeowner Podcast takes on garbage disposer dilemmas
