Hey there, kitchen warriors! Let’s chat about that unsung hero of your sink – the garbage disposal. You know, that whirring machine that gobbles up your food scraps? Yeah, that one. Ever wondered how long this little beast should last? Well, grab a cup of coffee, and let’s dive in!
Expected Garbage Disposal Lifespan
Quality and brand of the garbage disposal.
First things first, not all garbage disposals are created equal. It’s like cars – you’ve got your reliable workhorses and your fancy sports models. A good quality disposal lasts longer than a cheaply made one. It could be your kitchen buddy for 10 to 15 years. But treat it like a trash can, and you might be saying goodbye sooner than you’d like. The quality can also be a factor if something goes wrong. Some models can be easily repaired, while others need to be replaced and a new disposal installed.
What gets put down the garbage disposal?
Now, what you’re tossing down there matters. Your disposal isn’t a bottomless pit (sorry to break it to you). It’s more like a picky eater. Soft fruits and veggies? No problem. But those potato peels and onion skins? They’re like kryptonite to your disposal’s Superman. They wrap around the blades and cause all sorts of drama. What you put down the disposal has an impact on how long it lasts. The motor and blades are designed to handle certain types of food waste, but not everything that ends up in your sink is suitable for grinding. Being careful about the foods tossed down the sink helps protect your disposal.
How much do you use your garbage disposal?
And hey, how often are you using this thing? If you’re treating it like a personal chef, grinding away three times a day, it might burn out faster than that New Year’s resolution gym membership. Balance is key, folks!
What shouldn’t go down the garbage disposal?
While your garbage disposal is designed to handle food waste, it’s not meant for everything. Knowing what to avoid can prevent costly repairs. Now, let’s talk no-nos. Your disposal isn’t a magic vanishing act for everything.
Items to Avoid Putting in the Disposal:
- Fibrous Foods – Potato peels, onion skins, and asparagus are problematic. These stringy items can wrap around the blades, causing them to jam.
- Coffee Grounds and Eggshells – Though they seem harmless, coffee grounds can accumulate and form a sludge-like substance that clogs pipes. Eggshells can also stick to the blades and reduce their efficiency.
- Oil, Grease, and Fat – These substances can solidify in your pipes and cause major blockages.
- Bones – Most disposals can’t handle bones, which can dull or break the blades and cause jams.
- Uncooked Pasta and Rice – These foods expand when they come into contact with water, which can lead to blockages. They can also become sticky, creating a mess in your disposal.
- Non-Food Items – Your garbage disposal is not a trash can. Paper, glass, and plastic can cause serious damage and don’t belong in your disposal.
Items that are Safe to go in the Disposal:
- Non-Starchy Fruits and Vegetables – These are generally soft and easy for your disposal to handle.
- Liquids and Soft Foods – Soups, sauces, and soft leftovers are usually fine, as long as they’re not too greasy.
- Citrus Rinds and Ice Cubes – Citrus rinds can help freshen your disposal, and ice cubes help clean the blades.
How to Extend Garbage Disposal Lifespan
But don’t worry, it’s not all doom and gloom. Treat your disposal right, and it’ll be your kitchen’s best friend. Hear a weird noise? Don’t ignore it like your mom’s phone calls – get it checked out! And cleaning? It’s easier than you think. A little baking soda and vinegar cocktail once in a while, and your disposal will be fresher than your breath after a pack of mints.
Remember, even with the best care, nothing lasts forever. Your disposal will eventually retire. But follow these tips, and you’ll be grinding happily for years to come.
Full-Service Garbage Disposal Services
If your garbage disposal is showing signs of wear or isn’t working properly, it might be time to call in the experts. At Benjamin Franklin Plumbing in Pensacola, FL, we offer complete garbage disposal services, including installation and repair.
We provide upfront pricing, so you’ll know exactly what to expect. Our flexible scheduling options make it easy to find a time that works for you. Whether you need a quick repair or a full replacement, our team is ready to help. And our punctual plumbers are on time every time. If there’s any delay it’s YOU we pay!
Don’t let a malfunctioning garbage disposal disrupt your kitchen. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and keep your disposal running smoothly for years to come.