what is garbage disposal

Plumbing

The answer to 'what is garbage disposal' is a small electrical appliance installed under the kitchen sink that shreds food waste into pieces small enough to pass through your plumbing system. Garbage disposals help reduce the amount of food waste going into landfills by grinding it up and flushing it down the drain, making cleanup easier and reducing odors in your kitchen.

Garbage disposals are commonly installed in modern kitchens and are connected to the drain pipe under the sink. They are powered by an electric motor that spins sharp metal impellers to grind up food waste into a slurry that can be easily flushed away. This helps prevent clogged drains and overflowing trash cans.

Step-by-Step Guide

  1. 1

    Properly maintain your disposal

    Run your disposal regularly, use cold water, and avoid putting non-food items down the drain. Periodically clean the disposal by grinding up citrus peels or ice cubes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I use a garbage disposal?

To use a garbage disposal, simply scrape food scraps directly into the disposal opening in your sink and turn it on. Run cold water while the disposal is running to help flush the waste through.

What can I put in a garbage disposal?

Garbage disposals are designed to handle most common food waste like vegetable peelings, fruit rinds, small bones, and other soft food items. Avoid putting grease, stringy foods, or hard items like nuts or seeds down the disposal.

When should I replace my garbage disposal?

Most garbage disposals last 8-12 years with proper use and maintenance. Signs it may be time to replace your disposal include loud noises, frequent jams, or if it's simply not grinding food as effectively as it used to.

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