Common Garburator Mistakes That Could Cost You Hundreds In Repairs

Garburators, also known as garbage disposals, are a modern convenience that many of us rely on daily. They make kitchen cleanup easier by grinding food waste into tiny particles that can easily flow through your plumbing.

However, like any other appliance, garburators require proper care and maintenance. Unfortunately, many homeowners make common mistakes that can lead to costly repairs or even complete replacements.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the most frequent garburator mistakes and how to avoid them with the help of experienced plumbing contractors. By understanding these pitfalls, you can extend the life of your garburator, save money, and keep your kitchen running smoothly. Let’s dive in!

1. Overloading The Garburator

One of the most common mistakes is overloading the garburator. It’s easy to think of it as a magic machine that can handle anything you throw at it. However, pushing too much food waste into the unit at once can overwhelm the motor and blades.

For example, dumping an entire plate of leftovers into the garburator can cause it to jam or overheat. Instead, feed food waste gradually and in small amounts. This allows the garburator to process the waste efficiently without straining the system.

Pro tip: Run cold water while using the garburator and for a few seconds after turning it off. This helps flush the waste through the pipes and prevents clogs.

2. Putting The Wrong Items Down The Garburator

Not all food waste is created equal. Some items can damage the blades, clog the pipes, or even cause the motor to burn out. Common culprits include:

• Fibrous foods: Celery, corn husks, and onion skins can wrap around the blades and cause jams.
• Grease and oil: These can solidify in the pipes, leading to stubborn clogs.
• Bones and hard materials: They can dull or damage the blades over time.
• Starchy foods: Pasta, rice, and potato peels can expand in water and clog the pipes.

To avoid these issues, dispose of these items in the trash or compost instead. Your garburator will thank you!

3. Neglecting Regular Maintenance

Like any appliance, garburators need regular maintenance to function properly. Ignoring this can lead to unpleasant odours, reduced efficiency, and even breakdowns.

Here are some simple maintenance tips:

• Clean the garburator regularly: Use a mixture of ice cubes and salt to sharpen the blades and remove debris.
• Deodorize naturally: Grind citrus peels like lemon or orange to freshen up the unit.
• Check for leaks: Inspect the connections and seals periodically to prevent water damage.

By taking these small steps, you can keep your garburator in top shape and avoid costly repairs.

4. Using Harsh Chemicals

When faced with a clog or foul odour, it’s tempting to reach for chemical drain cleaners. However, these products can do more harm than good. The harsh chemicals can corrode the metal components of your garburator and damage the pipes.

Instead, opt for natural solutions like baking soda and vinegar. These are gentle yet effective at breaking down grease and eliminating odours. If the problem persists, it’s best to call a professional for garburator repair.

5. Ignoring Strange Noises Or Performance Issues

Your garburator will often give you warning signs when something is wrong. Unusual noises, slow grinding, or frequent jams are all red flags that shouldn’t be ignored.

For instance, a humming sound without grinding could indicate a jammed motor. Continuing to use the garburator in this state can cause further damage. Instead, turn off the unit and inspect it for obstructions. If you’re unsure, seek professional help to avoid making the problem worse.

6. Attempting DIY Repairs Without Proper Knowledge

While it’s great to be handy around the house, garburator repairs can be tricky. Without the right tools and knowledge, you could end up causing more damage or even injuring yourself.

For example, trying to fix a jammed garburator without disconnecting the power can be dangerous. Similarly, improper reassembly after cleaning can lead to leaks or malfunctions. When in doubt, it’s always safer to call a professional for garburator repair.

7. Not Knowing When To Replace The Garburator

Even with proper care, garburators don’t last forever. The average lifespan is around 8-12 years, depending on usage and maintenance. If your unit is old and frequently breaking down, it might be more cost-effective to replace it rather than repair it.

Signs that it’s time for a replacement include:

• Persistent leaks that can’t be fixed.
• Frequent jams or motor failures.
• Excessive noise or vibrations.

Investing in a new, energy-efficient model can save you money in the long run and improve your kitchen’s functionality.

Why Professional Garburator Repair Matters

While some minor issues can be resolved at home, many garburator problems require professional expertise. A trained plumber can quickly diagnose the issue, provide effective solutions, and ensure the repair is done safely and correctly.

Attempting to fix complex problems on your own can lead to further damage, higher repair costs, and even safety hazards. By hiring a professional, you can have peace of mind knowing that your garburator is in good hands.

About Us

At Jack’d Up Plumbing, we’re passionate about helping homeowners maintain their plumbing systems. With years of experience and a commitment to quality, we provide reliable garburator repair and maintenance services. Whether you’re dealing with a stubborn clog or need a complete replacement, our team is here to help.

Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can assist you.