Garbage Disposal Safety & Maintenance: How to Prevent Problems Before They Start
- Just Better Home Services
- Oct 31
- 4 min read
A garbage disposal is one of the most convenient kitchen appliances you can have, until it isn’t. Whether it’s jammed, leaking, or humming without grinding, garbage disposal issues often show up at the worst possible time (like when you’re preparing a big meal).
The good news? Most disposal problems are completely preventable with the right habits and routine care. The bad news? Trying to fix a jam or electrical issue yourself can be dangerous and lead to serious injury or costly plumbing repairs.
At Just Better Home Services, we help Central Virginia homeowners keep their plumbing systems running safely and efficiently. Here’s how to prevent garbage disposal problems before they start, and why it’s best to leave repairs and installations to a licensed professional.
In This Article
Common Causes of Garbage Disposal Problems
Garbage disposals are built to handle food waste, but not everything you toss in the sink. Many common issues start with accidental misuse, including:
Grease buildup: Cooled fats and oils harden inside the unit and pipes, causing clogs.
Fibrous foods: Celery, corn husks, and potato peels can wrap around blades.
Starchy foods: Pasta and rice swell with water, blocking drains.
Foreign objects: Bones, utensils, or hard pits can jam the impeller.
Age and corrosion: Older units can rust or leak, leading to water damage under the sink.
JBHS Tip: Run cold water before, during, and after using your disposal. It helps flush out debris and prevents fats from liquefying and sticking to the sides of your pipes.
What You Should (and Shouldn’t) Put Down the Disposal
Knowing what’s safe to grind can prevent many costly problems.
Safe to Dispose:
Soft fruit or vegetable scraps
Small pieces of cooked meat
Ice cubes (great for cleaning blades)
Citrus peels (freshens odors)
Avoid Putting These Down Your Disposal:
Grease, oil, or fat
Coffee grounds
Eggshells
Pasta, rice, or oatmeal
Fibrous foods (celery, onion skins, corn husks)
Bones, pits, or seafood shells
Even small amounts of these materials can jam your blades or clog your kitchen drain line. If your sink starts draining slowly or your disposal hums without spinning, it’s best to call a professional plumber before the issue worsens.
What to Do If Something Falls Into the Garbage Disposal
It happens more often than you might think! A spoon, ring, or small piece of glass slips down the drain and disappears into the disposal. The worst thing you can do in that moment is panic and reach in. Even if the switch is off, the blades can shift or start unexpectedly, causing serious injury.
Here’s what to do safely if something goes down the garbage disposal that shouldn’t:
Turn off the power immediately.
Unplug the disposal under the sink, or switch off the circuit breaker that powers it.
Don’t rely on just turning off the wall switch — electricity could still be active.
Never use your hand.
Even with the power off, avoid reaching inside. The blades are sharp and can move unexpectedly.
Use long-handled pliers or tongs to retrieve the object if it’s visible and loose gently.
Check for damage before restarting.
Once the object is safely removed, check for obvious obstructions or bent blades (visually only—don’t touch).
Restore power and briefly test the unit with cold water running to ensure it operates smoothly.
If it’s jammed, don’t force it.
Never use foreign tools, such as screwdrivers or broom handles, to dislodge an item. This can damage the motor or cause the disposal to seize.
If the unit won’t turn freely or hums without grinding, it’s time to call a professional.
Why DIY Garbage Disposal Repairs Can Be Dangerous
It’s tempting to try a quick fix when your garbage disposal stops working, but DIY repairs can be hazardous in this case. The motorized blades and electrical wiring inside these units require trained handling.
Here’s why it’s best to avoid tackling it yourself:
Injury risk: Even when unplugged, disposals can hold mechanical tension that releases unexpectedly.
Electrical shock hazard: Faulty resets or wiring errors can cause shocks or circuit damage.
Hidden leaks: Disassembling a disposal without proper tools can lead to leaks that damage cabinetry or flooring.
Voided warranties: Most manufacturers require professional service for repairs and replacements.
At JBHS, our licensed plumbers use the proper tools and safety procedures to diagnose problems without risking you or your home. We inspect wiring, connections, and seals to ensure your disposal operates safely and efficiently.
Professional Maintenance and Installation Options
Sometimes, the best way to prevent ongoing problems is to replace an outdated or malfunctioning unit. Garbage disposals typically last around 8–12 years, depending on use and maintenance.
If your disposal:
Frequently jams or hums
Leaks under the sink
Smells even after cleaning
Trips the circuit breaker
…it may be time to consider a professional replacement.
JBHS offers expert garbage disposal installation across Central Virginia. Our plumbing team can:
Safely remove your old disposal and install a new one
Ensure correct electrical and plumbing connections
Recommend the right size and horsepower for your kitchen needs
Test the unit for leaks, proper drainage, and quiet performance
We also provide maintenance tips to help you keep your new disposal running smoothly for years to come.
How We Can Help
At Just Better Home Services, we know that a broken garbage disposal can disrupt your entire kitchen routine. Whether it’s a jammed impeller, a mysterious leak, or a complete system failure, our certified plumbers are here to help, quickly and safely.
We specialize in professional garbage disposal repair and installation, ensuring every job is handled with precision and care. From diagnosing electrical issues to replacing worn-out units, our team delivers reliable plumbing solutions you can trust.
Attempting a DIY fix can be dangerous, but calling Just Better Home Services means peace of mind. We’ll restore your disposal’s performance safely, without risking injury or further damage to your plumbing.
When you want safe, efficient, and dependable plumbing service in Central Virginia, you can count on Just Better Home Services to get the job done right the first time. Call us for a Just Better day!
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