The holidays bring increased traffic through your kitchen and with that comes the potential for plumbing issues. A malfunctioning garbage disposal can lead to clogged drains, unpleasant odors, and unexpected repair bills. At Korte Does It All, we want Fort Wayne homeowners to be prepared so you can focus on your celebrations, not on service calls.
Keep Problem Items Out
Garbage disposals are convenient, but they are not designed to handle everything. Certain materials cause clogs, damage the unit, or accumulate in the line. For holiday meal prep and cleanup, avoid putting the following down the drain:
- Grease, melted fat or oils
- Coffee grounds
- Eggshells
- Bones
- Rice and pasta
- Fibrous foods such as celery, onion skins or pumpkin strings
Run Cold Water Before, During and After Use
Using cold water helps push waste through the unit and prevents the motor from overheating. Start the cold water flow a few seconds before you turn the disposal on, continue it while you feed scraps, and keep it running for at least fifteen seconds after you turn the disposal off.
Feed Food Waste Gradually
During large meal cleanups, feed small batches and give the disposal time to process each batch fully before adding more. This reduces stress on the motor and lowers the risk of jamming.
Avoid Harsh Drain Chemicals
Harsh chemical cleaners can damage disposal components and pipe linings. A safer approach is to use a mixture of baking soda and white vinegar, letting it sit briefly before rinsing with cold water. If the issue continues, a licensed plumber should inspect the system.
Call a Professional When Needed
If the disposal trips your breaker, spins without grinding, or makes unusual noises, it’s time to schedule service. Korte Does It All technicians diagnose issues clearly and offer straightforward solutions.
For dependable garbage disposal repair and kitchen plumbing support throughout the Fort Wayne region, call Korte Does It All or request online service.
