4 FAQs About Garbage Disposals
Whether you are building a new home or remodeling your kitchen, you may wonder if it's worth it to install a garbage disposal. If you don't know a lot about this kitchen device, here are the answers to four frequently asked questions about garbage disposals.
1. How Does a Garbage Disposal Work?
Garbage disposals are mounted under the sink. Most of them are hooked up to electricity so that they can be turned on and off with a flip of the switch. The garbage disposal contains an impeller plate that grinds up scraps of food that go down the drain. The food is then ground up enough so that it passes through the plumbing system. Garbage disposals also contain small motors, which usually range anywhere from 1/3 horsepower (HP) to 2 HP.
2. What are Some Benefits of Having a Garbage Disposal?
Once a homeowner has a garbage disposal, they will always want to have one. This is due to the many benefits a garbage disposal provides. Some of these benefits include:
- It's easier and less time-consuming to hand wash the dishes
- It helps to eliminate bad odors coming from your drains and garbage can
- It reduces the chances of your pipes getting clogged
- It helps to reduce the amount of food piling up in landfills
3. What Foods Should I Avoid Putting Down the Garbage Disposal?
Just because it's called a garbage disposal doesn't mean you can use it for your garbage. While it's true that many kinds of food can go down the garbage disposal, there are some kinds of foods that might cause problems. These foods tend to expand or becoming compacted after going down the drain. Both of these issues can cause the plumbing to become clogged. Some foods to avoid putting down the garbage disposal include rice, pasta, coffee grounds, and oatmeal. Also, you should never pour grease or fat down your garbage disposal.
4. Who Installs Garbage Disposals?
You might be tempted to install a garbage disposal yourself, but since there some moving parts involved, as well as electricity, you would be better off calling a plumber. A plumbing professional will get your garbage disposal installed properly so that you don't have to worry about it malfunctioning. A garbage disposal properly installed by a plumber should last anywhere from 8 to 15 years.
If you have more questions about garbage disposals, contact a local plumber.