Essential Garbage Disposal Dos and Don'ts: Expert Guide for Herndon VA Homeowners

As Herndon VA's trusted appliance repair specialists, we frequently encounter garbage disposal issues that could have been prevented with proper maintenance and usage. Whether you live in Downtown Herndon or Great Oak, following these essential dos and don'ts will help keep your disposal running efficiently.

Essential Dos for Your Garbage Disposal

Do Run Cold Water

Always run cold water before, during, and after using your disposal. Cold water helps solidify any grease or oils, making them easier to grind and flush away. Continue running water for 15-20 seconds after grinding is complete.

Do Clean Regularly

Regular cleaning prevents odors and maintains optimal performance. Try these methods:

• Ice and salt method: Run a mixture of ice cubes and coarse salt to clean blades
• Citrus freshener: Grind lemon or orange peels for natural deodorizing
• Regular flushing: Run cold water and the disposal daily, even when not in use

Critical Don'ts to Remember

Don't Dispose of These Items

Never put these items in your disposal:

• Fibrous materials (celery, corn husks, onion skins)
• Grease or oils
• Coffee grounds
• Eggshells
• Large bones
• Non-food items

Don't Ignore Warning Signs

If you notice any of these issues, it's time to call a professional:

• Unusual noises
• Frequent clogs
• Persistent odors
• Slow draining

Just like how regular refrigerator maintenance keeps your fridge running efficiently, proper disposal care prevents costly repairs. For optimal kitchen performance, consider combining disposal maintenance with professional dishwasher filter replacement.

Maintenance Tips for Herndon Homeowners

Living in Herndon's varying climate means your disposal works extra hard. Read our guide on appliance maintenance in Herndon's climate for more local insights.

Monthly Maintenance Routine

• Clean with ice and salt mixture
• Check for leaks around seals
• Listen for unusual sounds
• Test drain speed

When to Call a Professional

If your disposal shows signs of trouble, don't wait until it completely fails. Our experienced technicians serve all Herndon areas, including Herndon Heights and surrounding neighborhoods.

Call Appliance Repair Pros at (410) 429-8367 for:

• Professional disposal inspection
• Repair services
• Replacement recommendations
• Preventive maintenance

Don't let disposal problems disrupt your kitchen routine. Contact Herndon's trusted appliance experts at (410) 429-8367 for professional garbage disposal services. We're here to help keep your kitchen running smoothly!