One of the most convenient appliances to have in any kitchen is a garbage disposal. These devices, however, aren’t capable of handling all the items that are dropped into the blades. And, anything that goes down a disposal can potentially damage the device and will inevitably end up in the septic tank. As a result, using one properly requires taking some precautions. Here are a few garbage disposal tips.

Garbage Disposal Tips

1. Don’t Use Eggshells or Ice to Sharpen the Blades

This is a good rule of thumb to follow for one simple reason: Garbage disposals don’t have blades. Instead, the device has impellers that grind instead of slice. Eggshells and ice won’t help your disposal in any way. On the contrary, the former actually can cause major issues for the appliance by coating the impellers with a sticky membrane, leading to costly repairs.

2. Don’t Use a Disposal Like a Garbage Can

Anything put into a garbage disposal will reach your septic tank. While small bits of food and other materials won’t cause issues, it should not be the final destination for food scraps or organic trash. These will build up in the septic system over time and can severely affect the ecosystem of the tank. It will need to be pumped and repaired to function properly again.

3. Don’t Pour Grease & Fats Into a Disposal

This tip actually applies to any drain, but the power of most disposals sometimes causes people to think they can handle the substances. Grease and other fatty substances can coat the pipes and cause major clogs. Instead of using the disposal or drain, throw grease and fatty materials away in the trash.

Following these simple rules will keep your garbage disposal and septic tank running efficiently, with fewer unnecessary repairs and pumping appointments. In the end, it’s important to remember although a garbage disposal may seem like a quick fix, it’s actually more of a small convenience rather than an all-encompassing kitchen workhorse.

Bob’s Sweetwater Pumping Service has offered the best in septic tank services to the Honolulu, HI, area for more than a decade. From pumping to sewer line cleanings to dry well installations, the company is happy to provide customer-focused work that leaves plumbing and septic systems running smoother for longer. For more information, call (808) 981-5251 or visit the website today.