Ah, the holidays — a season when kitchens become the heart of the home. Between the scent of roasting turkey, bubbling casseroles, and fresh-baked pies, it’s no wonder this time of year turns even the most modest kitchen into a bustling hub of activity. But with all the cooking, prepping, and cleaning, one hardworking appliance often takes the brunt of it all: the garbage disposal.
Thanksgiving, in particular, is a true stress test for your plumbing system. Your garbage disposal works overtime to handle an increased load of food scraps and waste — from vegetable peels to leftover gravy. Without proper care, that added pressure can easily lead to clogs, jams, and even breakdowns.
A few simple steps before the holiday rush can make all the difference in keeping things running smoothly.
Why your garbage disposal works harder during the holidays:
- More frequent cooking and food prep
- Larger meal portions and leftovers
- Extra guests using the kitchen sink
- Heavier disposal loads from starchy or greasy foods
Being proactive now helps prevent plumbing emergencies later — so your holiday celebrations stay joyful and stress-free.
Common Mistakes Homeowners Make
When the holiday rush kicks in, even cautious homeowners can slip up. One of the biggest misconceptions is thinking that if it fits down the drain, it’s safe for the disposal. Unfortunately, that’s not true.
Avoid putting these down your garbage disposal:
- Turkey or chicken bones
- Coffee grounds
- Eggshells
- Grease or oil
These common culprits can dull blades, cause jams, and lead to tough clogs.
The pressure of cooking for a crowd can also lead to hasty choices, like overloading the disposal or ignoring signs of malfunction. To keep things running smoothly, slow down and make sure food scraps are going where they belong — the trash, compost, or disposal (if appropriate).
Starches and Pasta: The Expanding Hazard
Starchy foods like potatoes, rice, and pasta may seem harmless, but they’re among the sneakiest causes of holiday plumbing problems. Once ground up, they expand when mixed with water, forming thick, gluey blockages in your pipes.
Here’s what can happen when starches go down the drain:
- Expanded food particles clog pipes
- Water backs up into the sink
- Clogs mix with grease, creating hardened blockages
To prevent this, toss starchy leftovers into the trash or compost instead. Small steps like this can spare your plumbing system a major holiday headache.
Fibrous Vegetables: The Hidden Culprits
Celery, asparagus, and other fibrous vegetables can easily wrap around your disposal blades like string, jamming the mechanism and dulling its edges.
Prevent these issues by:
- Cutting fibrous vegetables into smaller pieces
- Throwing tough stems or peels into the trash
- Avoiding large loads of stringy produce
These small habits help keep your disposal running smoothly all season long.
Grease and Oils: The Silent Cloggers
Few substances cause more plumbing problems than grease and oil. They flow easily when hot but quickly solidify as they cool — coating your pipes and creating stubborn clogs.
To prevent grease buildup:
- Collect cooled grease in a disposable container
- Use paper towels to wipe pans before rinsing
- Never pour oil or drippings down the drain
These simple steps go a long way in keeping your kitchen plumbing clear and clog-free through the holidays.
Best Practices for Maintaining Functionality
Keeping your garbage disposal in top shape takes just a few mindful habits:
Everyday tips:
- Run cold water before, during, and after use
- Break large scraps into smaller pieces
- Avoid overloading the disposal
Regular maintenance ideas:
- Clean with ice cubes and rock salt to sharpen blades
- Use baking soda and vinegar to neutralize odors
- Check periodically for clogs or slow draining
Taking these precautions can help your disposal handle even the busiest kitchen days.
Avoiding Physical Hazards
It’s easy to get caught up in the holiday rush, but safety always comes first. Never insert your hands or utensils into a running disposal. If something falls in, turn the power off and use pliers or tongs to retrieve it safely.
Keep your kitchen helpers informed:
- Make sure guests and kids know how to use the disposal safely
- Set clear boundaries for what goes down the drain
- Keep tools like tongs and flashlights handy for quick fixes
Safety awareness ensures your celebrations stay both merry and accident-free.
Environmental Considerations
With sustainability in mind, the holidays are a great time to adopt eco-friendly kitchen habits. Composting instead of relying solely on your disposal can reduce waste and benefit your garden or community composting program.
Eco-friendly options include:
- Composting fruit and vegetable scraps
- Recycling cooking oils properly
- Reducing single-use plastics in the kitchen
A greener kitchen not only protects your plumbing but supports a healthier environment for all.
Identifying and Unclogging a Jammed Disposal
If your disposal jams mid-meal, don’t panic. You can often fix it safely yourself.
Quick DIY fix:
- Turn off the power.
- Shine a flashlight into the drain to spot the jam.
- Use an Allen wrench in the bottom slot to manually turn the blades.
- Test the unit once the obstruction is cleared.
Keep tools like a plunger, long-handled spoon, and pliers nearby for troubleshooting. If the jam persists, it’s best to call a professional before the problem worsens.
Recognizing Signs for Professional Help
Some issues are best left to the experts. Contact a professional if you notice:
- Strange grinding or humming noises
- Leaks under the sink
- Total power failure
Reddick & Sons Inc. specializes in electrical services and can offer expert advice and repairs for stubborn garbage disposal issues. Our team understands the challenges of the holiday season and provides timely solutions so your festivities continue without interruption.
Regular Cleaning Techniques
Keep your disposal clean and odor-free with a few household staples:
Monthly cleaning routine:
- Pour baking soda and vinegar down the drain
- Let it sit and bubble for several minutes
- Flush with cold water
You can also use cleaning ice cubes (water mixed with vinegar) to scrub and sharpen blades while removing grime.
Upgrading Your Garbage Disposal System
If your disposal is outdated or frequently breaking down, upgrading to a modern system might be the best long-term solution.
Benefits of new models:
- Quieter operation
- Better grinding power
- Advanced safety features
- Energy-efficient performance
Consulting a professional can help you find the best disposal for your home’s needs.
Understanding Manufacturer Guidelines
Don’t skip the manual! Manufacturer guidelines include crucial tips for safe use, maintenance, and warranty protection.
Smart homeowner habits:
- Register your product for warranty coverage
- Follow recommended cleaning methods
- Keep manuals for troubleshooting or recall info
Proper care ensures your disposal lasts for years — and saves you money on repairs.
Call Reddick & Sons Inc. This Holiday Season
As you orchestrate the perfect holiday meal, don’t let garbage disposal issues steal the spotlight. For all your garbage disposal needs, consider getting in touch with Reddick & Sons Inc.. Our experts offer comprehensive solutions to keep your kitchen running smoothly and your celebrations stress-free.
Call Reddick & Sons Inc. at (703) 348-9881 or contact us online.
