Things You Shouldn’t Put in the Garbage Disposal

Garbage disposals are an important asset to any modern kitchen. However, when used improperly, you could be putting your plumbing system at risk. Avoid clogs, sewer line backups, corrosion, pipe damage, garbage disposal repairs and other common plumbing problems by creating good habits when preparing meals or washing dishes. At Neighborhood Plumbing, we provide high quality residential and commercial plumbing services for clients in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and the surrounding metro area. If you’re looking for ways to improve the longevity and reliability of your plumbing system, avoid putting the following items in your garbage disposal. 

High Fiber Foods
Foods that contain a lot of fiber can be a problem for disposals, since the fibrous material will often wrap itself around the blades, or at least slow them down. This includes food like asparagus, corn husks, celery and artichokes. 

Starches
Once starches encounter water, they start to become sticky and can create a substance much like glue. As a result, these foods can cause frequent clogs. Avoid pouring a large amount of potatoes, pasta or rice down your drain.

Oil and Grease
Never pour bacon grease or leftover oil from a pan or baking container into the sink. At first glance, it may seem like these warm liquids will simply slip through your pipes. The truth is that many different oils will become solid once they reach room temperature. If the oil sticks to the side of your drain line and hardens, it can trap other debris and create large blockages.

Eggshells
Some people believe the myth that eggshells will sharpen garbage disposal blades, but it isn’t true. The tough shell can harm your shredder ring. Once the eggshells are ground, it will become a sand like texture that will likely clog your pipes. 
Hard Debris
Nutshells, peach pits, chicken bones and other hard materials should also stay far away from your disposal. They can cause severe damage to blades and won’t be shredded fine enough to go smoothly down your drain. 

Harsh Chemicals
It might seem convenient to grab a bottle of lye, drain opener or other harsh chemical to quickly clear away clogs. However, doing so can cause irreparable damage to garbage disposals, fixtures, drains and pipes over time. Instead, contact a professional plumber who can properly remove the clog and clean your drains. 

Do You Need a Help with Your Garbage Disposal or Drain Line? Call Neighborhood Plumbing
Have you been struggling with a damaged garbage disposal or a clogged sewer line? Get the help you need today by calling the experts at Neighborhood Plumbing. Our certified, licensed and insured plumbers offer a wide range of premium services for local home and business owners including clog removal, drain cleaning, garbage disposal repair and replacement, hydro jetting, trenchless pipe repair and more. Contact our office for more information or to schedule an appointment with an experienced plumber in Pittsburgh, Cranberry Township, Squirrel Hill, Mount Lebanon Township, Murrysville, Allison Park, Fox Chapel, Upper Saint Clair, Adams Township, Moon Township, O’Hara Township, Pine Township, Pennsylvania or a nearby community.