Hassle-Free Garbage Disposal Repair in Amarillo, TX

Fixing & Replacing Garbage Disposals Throughout Potter County

If your garbage disposal is making strange noises, emitting an unpleasant odor, or malfunctioning, it may be time to replace your unit. To determine whether you need a repair or a full replacement, reach out to our trusted team of technicians to determine which of our many plumbing services are required. At Frank’s Repair Plumbing, Inc., we’re members of the Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractor’s Association, offering only the highest quality of workmanship. For your garbage disposal repair or replacement, we ensure upfront and honest pricing.

Signs Your Garbage Disposal Needs Repair

Is your garbage disposal acting up? Don't ignore the signs! It's crucial to address any issues promptly to avoid further damage. Here are some key indicators that your garbage disposal may be in need of repair:

• Slow Draining: If your sink is taking longer than usual to drain, it could indicate a clogged or malfunctioning garbage disposal.
• Leaking: Any signs of water leakage around your garbage disposal unit should not be ignored. It could indicate a loose connection or a damaged seal.
• Jams & Clogs: Frequent jams or difficulty in grinding food waste are clear signs that your garbage disposal is not functioning optimally.
• Unusual Noises: Strange noises such as grinding or squealing could indicate mechanical issues within the garbage disposal.
• Foul Odors: Lingering unpleasant odors even after running the disposal could be a sign of accumulated food debris or bacterial growth.

If you notice any of these signs, it's essential to consult a professional plumber from Frank’s Repair Plumbing, Inc. to diagnose and repair your garbage disposal promptly.

What Foods Are Safe for the Garbage Disposal?

While the garbage disposal is a convenient appliance for disposing of food waste, not all foods are suitable for it. Here are some food items that are generally safe to put down your garbage disposal:

• Soft Fruits and Vegetables: small fruit scraps, and soft vegetable leftovers can be safely disposed of in the garbage disposal.
• Cooked Foods: Leftover cooked foods, such as rice, pasta, and small meat scraps, can usually be processed by the disposal.

Alternatively, here are some foods you should AVOID disposing of in your garbage disposal:

• Grease and Oils: Fats, oils, and greasy substances should never be poured down the disposal as they can solidify and cause blockages.
• Bones: Hard bones from meat or poultry should never be put in the garbage disposal as they can damage the blades and motor.
• Coffee Grounds (in large quantities): While small amounts are generally safe, excessive coffee grounds can accumulate and clog the drains.
• Pasta and Rice: These expand when in contact with water, potentially leading to clogs in the pipes.
• Fruit Pits and Seeds: Hard pits and seeds from fruits like peaches, cherries, and avocados can damage the disposal blades.

When in doubt, consult the manufacturer's guidelines or reach out to a professional plumber for advice.

How to Maintain Your Garbage Disposal

To avoid unnecessary repairs, be sure to keep your garbage disposal well-maintained.

A few ways to care for your garbage disposal include the following:

• Do not dump coffee grounds into your disposal. They create clogs over time as they stick to the sink pipes.

• Treat your garbage disposal once a month with a few handfuls of baking soda and a half cup of vinegar or Bio-Clean.

• Do not use bleach to clean your disposal––it’ll harden grease and contribute to clogs or pipe breaks.

• Use plenty of water when you grind food and for several seconds afterward.

• Never place your hand or fingers down the disposal, even if you think it is unplugged.

Can You Put Orange Peels Down the Garbage Disposal?

It can be very beneficial to put orange peels and lemon peels down the garbage disposal. These peels need to be cut into very tiny chunks before going down the disposal, but they are considered safe to use. Lemon and orange peels can cut through grease and fat build up within the internal components of the garbage disposal and also will leave a very pleasant citrus smell. Many homeowners use lemon and orange peels to clean their garbage disposals.

Caring Plumbers in Amarillo

Our team is committed to caring for you and your family’s plumbing needs. If your garbage disposal is slow-draining, leaking, or jammed, you should take immediate action. Your unit may be salvageable; regardless, consult a plumbing professional from Frank’s Repair Plumbing, Inc.. We can also help you if you are in the market for a brand new garbage disposal. Our team will be with you from selection to installation, ensuring a garbage disposal that best fits your needs and budget.