December 14/2025

Do Garbage Disposals Need Maintenance? Yes — Here’s What to Do

Many homeowners treat their garbage disposal as a “set it and forget it” appliance. It sits under the sink, quietly handling food scraps day after day—until it suddenly does not. The truth is that garbage disposals do need regular care to perform reliably. With proper maintenance and timely garbage disposal repair, you can extend the life of your unit and avoid unexpected plumbing emergencies. A professional plumber can also help ensure your disposal remains safe, efficient, and fully integrated with your home’s plumbing system.

Why Garbage Disposal Maintenance Matters

Garbage disposals work in a harsh environment. They are exposed to moisture, food waste, grease, and temperature changes on a daily basis. Without maintenance, buildup can accumulate inside the grinding chamber and drain line, leading to slow drainage, unpleasant odors, and mechanical strain. Over time, these issues can escalate into jams, motor burnout, or leaks that require a full plumbing repair service.

Routine care helps your disposal operate smoothly, reduces wear on internal components, and minimizes the risk of clogs spreading to other parts of your plumbing system.

Simple Maintenance Homeowners Can Do

Basic maintenance does not require specialized tools, but consistency is key. Running cold water before, during, and after using the disposal helps flush debris through the system and prevents grease from solidifying in the drain. Cold water keeps fats and oils in solid form so they can be chopped and carried away instead of coating pipes.

Cleaning the disposal regularly also makes a difference. Grinding ice cubes can help knock residue off the blades and interior walls. For odors, a mixture of baking soda and vinegar followed by hot water can neutralize smells naturally. Citrus peels, used sparingly, can freshen the unit, but they should never replace proper cleaning or be used excessively.

What to Avoid Putting Down the Disposal

Knowing what not to grind is just as important as maintenance. Fibrous foods like celery, corn husks, and onion skins can wrap around the blades. Grease, oil, and fat may go down as liquids but quickly solidify in pipes. Hard items such as bones, fruit pits, and shells can damage the grinding components. Starchy foods like pasta and rice expand with water and can cause stubborn clogs.

Ignoring these guidelines often leads to jams or damage that require professional garbage disposal repair from a licensed plumber.

When Professional Service Is Needed

Even with good habits, disposals can develop problems over time. Humming noises, frequent resets, persistent odors, slow draining, or leaks under the sink are all signs that professional attention is needed. Attempting DIY repairs without proper training can be dangerous, as disposals are powerful electrical appliances connected to your plumbing system.

A professional plumbing repair service can safely diagnose the issue, clear internal obstructions, repair electrical or mechanical components, and determine whether repair or replacement is the most cost-effective solution.

How Mr. Rooter Plumbing Can Help

Mr. Rooter Plumbing provides expert garbage disposal services backed by experienced technicians and professional standards. Our licensed plumbers in Brick Township understand how disposals interact with your broader plumbing system and address the root cause of problems, not just the symptoms. Whether you need routine maintenance, targeted garbage disposal repair, or advice on upgrading to a newer, more efficient unit, our team delivers dependable solutions.

Protect Your Plumbing Investment

Regular garbage disposal maintenance is a small effort that delivers long-term benefits. By practicing good habits and scheduling professional service when needed, you can avoid costly breakdowns and keep your kitchen plumbing running smoothly. If your disposal is acting up or overdue for service, contact Mr. Rooter Plumbing today to schedule an inspection with a trusted plumber and keep your system working the way it should.