Disposal leaks, drain line clogs, poor grinding performance—an in-sink kitchen disposal can be a source of nagging maintenance issues. In addition, disposal leaks can lead to long-term household consequences such as hidden water damage and mold growth. To ensure minimal malfunctions and maximum service life from your garbage disposal, here are some suggestions from major manufacturers:
- Use it. Long periods of disuse degrade the internal mechanism. If the unit isn't regularly operated (at least once a week) accumulating food and grease residue washing down the drain may clog and inhibit moving parts.
- Don't overload it. Don't stuff more food into the disposal than it can handle. Limit volume to approximately the amount that would fit into the sink drain basket. Allow the disposal to fully grind that amount before adding more. After all food has been ground, keep the water running for 30 seconds before turning the disposal off to ensure full drain function.
- Clean it every week. To remove food residue that degrades performance—as well as causing odor issues—clean the disposal weekly with this popular DIY method. Pour a couple of cups of cracked ice into the disposal followed by a cup of vinegar. Turn on the disposal for 10 seconds with sink water running. The ice cleans the grinding blades and acidic vinegar dissolves residue and deodorizes.
- Inspect it regularly. Disposal leaks are usually only apparent by checking under the sink with a flashlight. Inspect the disposal drain pipe connection, dishwasher drain hose connection, the seal around the sink flange and the bottom of the unit for signs of water leakage. Drain pipe connection leaks may be resolved by tightening the screw securing the connection; the dishwasher hose clamp can be tightened similarly. Seepage evident around the sink flange, however, requires removing the disposal and resealing. If water is leaking from the seal around the bottom of the disposal motor, the entire unit must be replaced.
Avoid disposal leaks, prevent water damage and extend the life of your garbage disposal with basic maintenance.
