There is a lot of misinformation circulating around the internet about garbage disposals: what they’re made of, how they work, what’s safe to put into them, etc. Considering how often we have to repair them, we figured it would be helpful to debunk 3 of the most common garbage disposal myths so that you can better maintain yours.
Myth #1: Garbage Disposals Have Blades.
This is probably the most widespread garbage disposal myth. Garbage disposals do not actually contain any sharp blades. Therefore, any claims about things you can do to “sharpen your garbage disposal’s blades” are also myths.
If garbage disposals don’t have blades, then what do they have?
Instead of blades, a garbage disposal unit has a shredder ring and a flywheel with two impellers on its sides that work together to break down food.
Myth #2: Garbage Disposals Work Just Like A Blender.
Not so! For that to be the case, a garbage disposal would need to contain a rotating blade, which it does not.
Then how does a garbage disposal work?
A garbage disposal works in 3 basic steps:
- When you turn on the garbage disposal and put food down into the upper hopper chamber (the part right below your sink drain), the food comes in contact with the shredder ring, the flywheel, and the flywheel’s two impellers.
- The garbage disposal’s motor spins the flywheel around–this, along with the motion of the impellers, pushes the food waste into the teeth and grooves of the shredder ring.
- Running water moves the broken down food bits into the waste line and into your home’s plumbing. (That’s why you always want to run water into the drain when using your garbage disposal!)
Myth #3: You Can Put Anything Down The Garbage Disposal As Long As It’s Food.
This would be incredibly convenient, but unfortunately, it just is not the case. Jammed garbage disposal components can be caused by starchy, stringy, and fibrous foods like banana peels, celery, and potato peels. Solid food waste like fruit pits, bones, and egg shells should be avoided altogether.
What is okay to put down my garbage disposal?
Refrain from putting large “bites” of food down the garbage disposal and instead use it for the food remnants left on the plates after a meal is over.If you’re experiencing trouble with your garbage disposal, don’t stress yet over purchasing a whole new one. First, Contact Conner’s Appliance for over 35 years of experience in appliance repairs. We repair a wide range of garbage disposal issues, from leaks and jammed units to clogged drains and excessive noise.
