Got Garbage Disposal Smell? Here's How to Fix It!
Got Garbage Disposal Smell? Here's How to Fix It!
We've all been there - that unexpected, unpleasant smell wafting from your garbage disposal. How do you fix it? And why does it happen? Well, don't worry, you're not alone, and we've got the solutions for you. As your trusted experts in plumbing services, we're here to share our insights, tips, and tricks on how to conquer garbage disposal smells and prevent them from happening in the future.
The Culprits behind Garbage Disposal Smells
Garbage disposals can often emit a foul odor due to accumulated food particles which can rot over time. Every time you grind food scraps, minute particles stick to the disposal's walls and blades. Over time, these particles decay and cause a stink that can permeate your kitchen.
Your Action Plan: How to Fix a Smelly Garbage Disposal
Step 1: Safety First
Always ensure the disposal is turned off and unplugged before starting any cleaning routine. Safety is a priority in any home maintenance task.
Step 2: Manual Cleaning
Reach under the sink, disconnect the power supply and clean the visible parts of the garbage disposal with a scrub brush and a solution of warm water and mild dish soap. This will help remove any obvious sludge or grime.
Step 3: Ice Cubes & Salt Technique
Once you've scrubbed away the visible gunk, the ice cubes and salt technique will help clean those hard-to-reach areas. Toss a handful of ice cubes and a cup of coarse salt into the disposal. Run cold water and turn on the disposal. The ice and salt will act as a scrubber, dislodging any hidden waste or build-up.
Step 4: Deodorizing
Now that you've deep-cleaned your disposal, it's time to deodorize. Run a few citrus peels (lemon, lime, or orange) through the disposal. The citrus not only leaves a pleasant aroma, but the acidity also helps to further clean the disposal's walls.
Preventive Measures: Keep Your Garbage Disposal Fresh
Regular cleaning is essential to keep those nasty smells at bay. Here are some preventive measures:
- Regularly clean your garbage disposal: Using the steps above, aim to clean your garbage disposal every two weeks.
- Run it regularly: Regular use prevents rust and corrosion, ensuring any waste is completely flushed out.
- Avoid grinding certain foods: Foods like coffee grounds, egg shells, or fibrous materials (celery or corn husks) can get stuck in your disposal and lead to smells.
- Use cold water: Using cold water when grinding food waste helps fats and grease solidify, making it easier for the disposal to grind and flush them away.
With our expert advice and your diligent care, your garbage disposal will remain clean, fresh, and efficient. At Copperfield Plumbing, we bring decades of experience and deep expertise to provide you with the most reliable and efficient solutions for all your plumbing needs. Check out our 'Services' page to learn more about our industry-leading services and commitment to excellence.
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