Garbage Disposals 101: What Every Homeowner Should Know
- baileybrosllc
- Jul 25
- 2 min read
Garbage disposals are one of the most convenient kitchen appliances—until they stop working. Whether you’re installing a new unit, maintaining an existing one, or wondering what not to put down the drain, understanding how your disposal works can save you from clogs, odors, and costly repairs.
Let’s break it down: how garbage disposals work, what you should (and shouldn’t) do, and when it’s time to call in a pro.
What Is a Garbage Disposal and How Does It Work?
A garbage disposal is mounted under your kitchen sink and is connected to the drain. When turned on, it uses a spinning disk (not blades!) to force food waste against a stationary grind ring. The pulverized waste is then flushed down the drain with water.
It’s efficient—but not indestructible.
What You Can Put in a Garbage Disposal
A well-functioning disposal can handle:
Soft food scraps (fruit, vegetables, cooked meat)
Small bits of pasta or rice (in moderation)
Ice cubes (good for cleaning the grind chamber)
Citrus peels (help with odor)
What You Should Never Put Down Your Disposal
Avoid anything that can gum up, clog, or damage the system:
Grease, fats, and oils (they solidify and cause clogs)
Fibrous vegetables (like celery, corn husks, and onion skins)
Eggshells (can bind with grease and form clogs)
Coffee grounds (turn into sludgy paste)
Pasta and rice (expand with water and clog pipes)
Bones, pits, or shells (too hard and can damage the unit)
Non-food items (accidents happen—watch out for utensils!)
Signs Your Garbage Disposal Needs Repair or Replacement
Unusual noises like grinding metal or humming with no movement
Persistent clogs or slow draining water
Foul odors that won’t go away, even after cleaning
Frequent resets or power issues
Leaks under the sink near the unit
If you notice any of these, it’s best to shut it off and call a licensed plumber before the issue gets worse.
Garbage Disposal Maintenance Tips
Run cold water before, during, and after using it—this helps flush particles through the system.
Clean it regularly with ice cubes, a small amount of dish soap, and citrus peels.
Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or drain cleaners—these can damage the internal components.
When to Call a Plumber
While some minor jams can be fixed by hitting the reset button or manually turning the flywheel, larger problems like electrical failure, leaks, or full clogs should be handled by a pro. A licensed plumber can:
Safely install or replace your disposal
Unclog connected drain lines
Repair leaks and faulty connections
Help you choose the right size and model for your home
Bottom Line
A garbage disposal is a hardworking tool—but like anything in your home, it needs proper care. Treat it right, and it’ll last for years. Neglect it, and you might end up with a smelly, clogged, or broken mess under your sink.
Need help with a repair, replacement, or new installation? Contact Bailey Bros Plumbing & Drain, we're the experts!.
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