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The Myths about Your Garbage Disposal
By Appliance Chief | July 14, 2007
With most appliances, it is common for people who are not properly informed to hold a variety of misconceptions. When it comes to garbage disposal units, some people believe there certain things that can or cannot be done with them, while others even think they are potentially hazardous.
If you own or are looking to purchase a new garbage disposal for your kitchen, here is a list that will clear up some of the myths that are floating around out there.
It Can Turn On By Itself: This is only a myth, as your garbage disposal unit must be either turned on manually or the water must be running in order for it to work.
Garbage Disposals Smell Bad: If your unit is not cleaned regularly, this can happen. Debris can collect under the rubber flaps and creates a strong aroma. To get rid of it, turn off the disposal and use a stiff brush or rag to clean underneath the flaps. However, if the unit is free of debris and still smells, it is easy to fix the problem. Simply grind up a couple of ice cubes and some lemon rinds, orange rinds or baking soda for a fresh clean odor. Ice cubes and vinegar can also be used.
Putting In Ice Will Sharpen The Blades: First of all, garbage disposal units don’t have blades. They have impellers that are not sharp.
Hot Water Should Be Used: Hot water can melt fats and clog up both the unit and pipes. Always use cold water when grinding food.
You Can Use Chemical Cleaners: Never pour bleach, drain cleaners or other chemicals into the garbage disposal as they can erode the unit.
Disposal Units Consume Energy: While most motors run on electricity, a new type of garbage disposal operates just by the water’s force. These are great when an electrical outlet for a disposal under the sink is not available or if you are trying to conserve energy.
What Goes In It: There are differing views on what can be put into a garbage disposal. Some manufacturers say you can put fruit pits, chicken bones and even steak bones in, because such items will clean the grind chamber inside the unit. However, others recommend that you don’t and even include fibrous fruits and vegetables, such as cornhusks and artichokes, as they say such items will not break up and might clog the unit.
The Unit Could Sever Your Hand: It makes sense that you’d never stick your hand into the garbage disposal to clean it, without ensuring that it is off first. There are two types of garbage disposal units: the batch-feed type, which is activated by turning a stopper after loading the disposal with garbage and the continuous-feed style that is activated by a switch when you run the water, but these units also have a safety switch to ensure against accidents.
To learn more about garbage disposals, one of our professional service agents can help you. If you live in the
Topics: Garbage Disposal |
