Can I put bones in a disposal?

Large bones can jam it. Small bones may pass, but it is safest to avoid them.

Why does my disposal hum?

The blades are jammed. Turn off the power and clear the jam safely.

Is hot or cold water better?

Cold water helps keep grease solid so it can be cut.

Why does my disposal smell?

Food stuck inside is the usual reason. Grind ice and citrus and flush with cold water.

Should I pour grease down the sink?

No. Grease hardens and clogs the pipe. Put it in the trash when it cools.

Garbage Disposal Do's and Don'ts

Your garbage disposal works hard, but it has limits. A few small habits keep it quiet, clean and clog-free. This guide covers what to do, what to avoid and how to handle a jam safely.

If your disposal hums, leaks or smells even after cleaning, call (972) 449-9527. We offer same-day repair and emergency help for leaks under the sink.

Quick answer

Use cold water and run the disposal for a few extra seconds.
Avoid grease, fibrous scraps and large hard items.
Never put your hand inside a disposal.

Do these

Run cold water before, during and after use.
Cut large scraps into smaller pieces.
Grind a few ice cubes now and then to scrape the walls.
Use citrus peels sparingly for a fresh smell.

Do not put these down

Grease and oil, which harden and clog the pipe.
Fibrous foods like celery, corn husks and artichokes.
Starchy foods like pasta, rice and potato peels in large amounts.
Large bones, fruit pits and hard shells.
Coffee grounds in large amounts.
Non-food items.

If it jams

Turn off the switch and unplug it or turn off the breaker.
Never reach in by hand.
Use the hex key in the bottom of the unit to turn the blades.
Press the reset button.

If it smells

Food stuck in the chamber is the cause. Grind ice and citrus, then flush with cold water.

How a disposal really works

Many people think a disposal has sharp blades. Most use spinning plates that fling food against a grinding ring. The water carries the small bits down the drain. This is why running water matters so much.

Safe jam-clearing steps in more detail

Turn off the wall switch.
Unplug the disposal, or turn off the breaker.
Use a flashlight to look for the cause.
Use tongs or pliers to remove any item you can see. Never use your hand.
Use the hex key in the bottom to turn the plates back and forth.
Press the red reset button and test with cold water.

Disposal, compost or trash?

Large amounts of scraps are better for compost or the trash. Use the disposal for small leftovers only.

If you have a septic system

Some septic systems do not do well with extra food waste. Check with your septic company before using a disposal often.

Signs your disposal needs help

It hums but the plates do not spin.
Water drains slowly or backs up.
There is water under the sink.
It makes a harsh grinding noise even when empty.

A small leak can ruin a cabinet floor quickly. Turn off the water if you see one, and call for help.

Simple habits for a cleaner disposal

Run cold water for 15 seconds after you finish. Grind a handful of ice now and then. Wipe the rubber splash guard with a sponge. These small habits stop smells before they start and keep the grinding parts clean.

When to call

If it hums, leaks or will not turn on, see garbage disposal repair. A clog can also affect your dishwasher.

Need help now?

A leak under the sink is urgent. We offer same-day repair and emergency help 24 hours a day. Searching for appliance repair near me? Call (972) 449-9527 for same-day appliance repair and emergency help in The Colony and nearby cities. We take calls 24 hours a day.

Call (972) 449-9527

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Garbage Disposal Do's and Don'ts: What Never to Put Down the Drain

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