Reasons why your garbage disposal gets jammed

Plumbing emergencies or issues like a jammed garbage disposal can happen to anyone, whether you are a new or seasoned homeowner. If you have encountered such a problem, you know how much of an inconvenience it can be. Fortunately, one way you can prevent or reduce the probability of encountering such an issue is to know the main reasons garbage disposals tend to jam at the outset.

Sheer Volume of Food: Excessive amounts of food disposals or remnants like coffee grounds, fruit husks, and vegetable peelings are common culprits of garbage disposal blockages. Often, your home disposals do not possess the power to process such remnants in large quantities or at once. Hence, moderation is essential.

Pouring Fats Down the Drains: Cooking oils and other fats are notorious for clogging disposals. Though oils may appear innocuous, they solidify in pipes. The solidification continues to build up and thicken as you continue to pour fats down the drain, eventually leading to a roadblock. Notably, rust and mineral deposits can also cause an impasse.

Loading Inappropriate Items: Another source of garbage disposal blockage occurs when users attempt to unload unsuitable and ill-fitting items like water plastic bottles and bottle caps down the drain. Other times, items like silverware and tools fall down the drain unintentionally.

Misuse of the Garbage Disposal: Often, people fill up their disposal with scraps then turn on the disposal. This approach is damaging to the disposal. The disposal should be running well in advance before deposits go into it. Some homes are fitted with the wrong type of disposal systems altogether, which can cause jams and other major issues. In essence, constant use of the disposal may cause the disposal to overheat and malfunction. Another example of misuse can mean failure to run water before, during, and after using the disposal.

Overall, garbage disposals are handy in any household. Awareness of what makes them malfunction can help prevent, mitigate, or address recurring issues. If you are encountering any issues with your home garbage disposal, choose a trusted and reputable plumping company that can attend to your issue easily and efficiently.