No kitchen is complete without that handy device that grinds up any bits of food that are rinsed under the faucet. Of course I’m talking about removal. This machine has kept kitchen sink plumbing running since it became available for purchase around the 1940s. However, a disposal can have its own set of problems and can sometimes malfunction. Here are some tips you can use now to avoid garbage disposal repair later.

1. Use only when necessary

This advice sounds like simple common sense, but you’d be surprised how many people don’t fully understand the ideal way to use the device. You should run it only after rinsing the dishes or throwing some biodegradable food scraps down the sink. Some people run it every time they use the sink and sometimes even walk away for minutes at a time. This type of use wears out the engine very quickly.

2. Do not crush non-biodegradable foods

Anything that is synthetic and non-biodegradable should be disposed of in the trash. This can include items like man-made candy, especially gummies, play dough, clay, sand, etc. These items will wear out the motor, likely clog the plumbing system, and possibly clog the unit.

3. Don’t shred items randomly.

Some people think of disposal as like a wood chipper that can destroy any unwanted items. It is not! Avoid throwing things into the machine just to get rid of or destroy it. Not only is it likely to fail, it will damage or jam the machine, requiring a repair effort to dislodge items caught in the blades. This can be dangerous and time consuming if not done correctly.

4. Do not shred very stringy crusts/fruits/vegetables.

The unit gets its most use during cooking and food preparation. Many times we can be in a hurry to rinse the cutting board and we can throw less appropriate foods into the sink. Anything that is stringy or contains a thick, durable crust will damage the unit. The shells can get stuck in the blades and cause a jam or create friction that can lead to motor damage. When in doubt, throw the items in the trash.

5. Avoid expandable foods and carbohydrates

Foods like pasta and rice will absorb more water and expand inside the unit and sink. This expansion can damage the unit in the long term and create bad odours.

6. Be sure to rinse and clean the unit

From time to time it will be important to flush and clean the unit to keep everything in good working order. Avoid using chemical unclogging agents as they often don’t work in the long run and cause more problems.

Use these tips to make sure your kitchen sink stays in perfect working order.