5 Tips to Maintain Your Garbage Disposal This Winter
Youmna Rehman
As the chill of winter sets in, your garbage disposal might be working overtime. From holiday meal prep to clearing out food scraps, it’s easy to forget this kitchen essential needs a little TLC. But cold weather can make your disposal more prone to clogs, odors, and wear. Why? Grease solidifies faster in lower temperatures, and pipes are more susceptible to freezing. So, let’s dive into some easy maintenance tips to keep your garbage disposal humming happily all season long.
"Top Signs Your Garbage Disposal Needs Repair"
Why Winter Maintenance Matters
Winter isn’t just tough on your heating bill—it’s tough on your garbage disposal too. With heavier use during the holidays and the cold causing fats and oils to harden, it’s no surprise disposals can get jammed or clogged more often. Regular maintenance ensures smooth operation, prevents unpleasant smells, and avoids those mid-dinner party breakdowns.
Can’t Skip the Cleaning
Cleaning your garbage disposal isn’t just about keeping it fresh—it’s about avoiding buildup that could lead to clogs and dull blades. Winter foods like grease, gravy, and starchy leftovers can stick around longer in the colder months, making frequent cleanups even more critical.
3 Quick DIY Cleaning Tips
- Citrus Power – Toss lemon or orange peels into the disposal for a fresh scent and natural cleaning boost.
- Vinegar Ice Cubes – Freeze vinegar in ice trays and grind them to remove gunk and sharpen blades.
- Baking Soda and Vinegar Mix – Pour baking soda followed by vinegar into the disposal, let it fizz, and rinse with hot water to clear debris.
5 Tips to Maintain Your Garbage Disposal This Winter
1. Run Cold Water During Use
Always use cold water when running your garbage disposal. It helps solidify grease, making it easier to grind up and flush out without coating your pipes. Never use hot water while grinding as it can melt fats and create stubborn clogs.
2. Limit Holiday Food Scraps
Think twice before throwing turkey bones, potato peels, or fibrous vegetables like celery into the disposal. These items can jam the unit or dull the blades. Instead, compost where possible and only grind smaller, softer scraps.
3. Let It Run Longer
After feeding food scraps into the disposal, let it run for an additional 10–15 seconds with water. This ensures everything is flushed through the pipes, reducing the risk of clogs in colder months.
4. Inspect and Tighten Connections
Cold weather can cause materials to contract, loosening your disposal’s connections to the drainpipes. Regularly check for leaks or drips under the sink and tighten any loose parts to keep things secure.
5. Schedule a Winter Check-Up
If your garbage disposal is older or showing signs of wear, consider having a professional plumber inspect it. They can identify any issues before they become full-blown problems, saving you from costly repairs later.
What Not to Do to Your Garbage Disposal
- Don’t pour grease or oil down the drain. It hardens in cold weather and clogs your pipes.
- Don’t grind fibrous foods. Celery, corn husks, or onion skins can tangle the blades.
- Don’t overload the unit. Feed food scraps gradually to prevent jams.
- Don’t use chemical drain cleaners. These can damage the disposal’s parts.
How to Troubleshoot Common Garbage Disposal Problems
| Problem | Likely Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Disposal won’t turn on | Tripped breaker or disconnected power | Check circuit breaker and reset disposal. |
| Loud grinding or rattling | Foreign object stuck | Turn off, check for objects, and safely remove them. |
| Water backing up into the sink | Clogged drain | Use a plunger or drain snake to clear the clog. |
| Foul odors | Food buildup | Clean with vinegar and baking soda or grind citrus. |
| Leaking from the base | Worn-out seals or loose connections | Tighten connections or call a professional plumber. |
An inspection by a plumber can go a long way
An inspection by a plumber can go a long way in maintaining the health of your garbage disposal, especially during winter when it faces added stress. Professionals can identify hidden issues like worn-out components, small leaks, or buildup in the pipes that might escape your notice. Addressing these problems early prevents costly repairs or replacements down the line. Plus, a plumber can provide expert cleaning, tighten loose connections, and ensure your disposal is functioning efficiently, saving you time, money, and the headache of dealing with unexpected breakdowns.
Conclusion
Your garbage disposal works hard, especially during the winter months. With these tips, you can keep it running smoothly, avoid clogs, and enjoy a stress-free kitchen. A little maintenance goes a long way in preventing issues—and when in doubt, don’t hesitate to call a professional for help. Keep your disposal happy, and it’ll return the favor all winter long!
Hard water stains may seem like a cosmetic issue, but they’re more than just an aesthetic nuisance. If left untreated, they can etch into the surface of your glass, permanently dulling its clarity. But don’t worry—there’s hope. With the right knowledge and consistent care, you can banish these stains and restore your shower to its former gleaming glory.
It’s one of those settings in your home you probably haven’t thought about—until your shower is either scalding hot or disappointingly lukewarm. The temperature on your water heater might seem like a minor detail, but it has a big impact on your comfort, your wallet, and even your health.
So, what temperature should your water heater actually be set at?
Spoiler alert: there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. The “right” temperature depends on your household needs, your risk tolerance for bacteria like Legionella, your energy-saving goals, and even the age of your plumbing system. Let’s break it all down in simple terms and help you find the sweet spot that keeps your showers steamy, your bills low, and your family safe.
You’ve probably heard the term hard water tossed around, especially in home maintenance circles or plumbing advice forums. But unless you’ve directly dealt with the effects, it might just sound like another boring utility issue that can wait until later. Here’s the truth: hard water isn’t just a minor annoyance—it could be quietly wrecking your home from the inside out.
From damaging your appliances and pipes to irritating your skin and costing you money, hard water is more than just a water quality problem—it’s a home health issue. And the worst part? Most people don’t even realize they have it until the damage is done.
Toilets, too, are frequent culprits. A worn flapper or faulty fill valve can cause the toilet to run continuously, pushing your water consumption sky-high without you even noticing until the bill arrives. Many people don’t realize they have a toilet leak until they add food coloring to the tank and find color seeping into the bowl without a flush
Repiping sounds like a big deal because it is. But ignoring it when your property truly needs it? That can lead to even bigger, costlier, and more destructive issues down the line.
Think of your plumbing system like the veins of your property. If those pipes are corroding, leaking, or under pressure from age and wear, the entire system can begin to break down from the inside. And most of the time, it doesn’t happen all at once—it starts with subtle clues.
Sinks are often the silent workhorses of our homes. From washing dishes and prepping food to brushing teeth and cleaning up messy hands, they’re in constant use—but rarely do they get the attention they truly deserve. Until something goes wrong. A slow drain, a musty smell, or a sudden leak can turn your day upside down. That’s why regular sink maintenance isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. In this guide, we’ll explore why maintaining your sink is crucial, what causes problems, and how to keep things flowing smoothly for years to come
Tankless water heaters and traditional (storage tank) water heaters.
At first glance, they both do the same job. But a closer look reveals big differences in how they operate, how much they cost, and how well they meet your daily needs. Whether you're building a new home or replacing an old unit, making the right choice can affect your utility bills, home comfort, and maintenance needs for years to come.
Let’s break down the features side by side—explaining how each type works and which one might be the better fit for you.
A clogged or failing septic system is more than just an unpleasant mess; it can lead to thousands of dollars in repairs, nasty odors, health hazards, and environmental damage. The good news? With just a little attention and some proactive care, you can keep your septic tank in tip-top shape for decades. For professional services, reach out to us!
rom clogged drains caused by pet hair to chewed pipes, scratched fixtures, or accidental flooding, pets can unknowingly wreak havoc beneath your floors and behind your walls.
But don’t worry—this isn’t a reason to panic or banish your pets to the backyard. With a little planning, a few smart habits, and a basic understanding of where pets and pipes intersect, you can create a home that’s both pet-friendly and plumbing-safe.
There’s nothing quite as unsettling as the sight of toilet water creeping up instead of swirling down. One second, you’re flushing like usual—and the next, your bathroom floor is under siege. If you've ever experienced a toilet overflow, you know it can feel like a full-blown emergency. But take a deep breath. Toilet overflows are common, and with the right approach, they’re entirely manageable. This guide will walk you through why overflows happen, what to do in the moment, how to clean up safely, and how to prevent future disasters. No plumber-speak. No panic. Just smart, practical advice. For professional help , reach out to us! How to Unblock a Sink in 5 Ways with Household Items Why Do Toilets Overflow? The Real Reasons Behind the Rising Water Before you can fix the problem, it helps to understand what caused it in the first place. Most toilet overflows come down to one of three things: 1. A Clog in the Trap or Drain The most frequent cause is a clog in the toilet's trap—the curved section of pipe inside the bowl—or farther down in the drain. This is usually due to excessive toilet paper, non-flushable items (like wipes, sanitary products, or even small toys), or buildup over time. 2. A Full or Backed-Up Sewer Line If your toilet overflows even when it hasn’t been flushed, the issue might lie deeper in your plumbing system. A blocked main drain line can affect multiple fixtures in your house, and that’s a sign of a serious underlying issue—like tree roots invading your pipes or years of buildup finally causing a backup. 3. Malfunctioning Toilet Parts Sometimes, the problem lies in the tank itself. A stuck flapper or a faulty float valve can cause water to continuously fill the bowl beyond safe levels, creating the perfect storm for an overflow—especially if there's already a partial clog. Step 1: Stop the Water Flow Immediately The first thing to do when you see water rising is to stop it from going any further. You need to act quickly to avoid flooding your floor. How to Cut the Water Supply Fast Open the tank lid and press down on the flapper (the rubber disk at the bottom of the tank) to stop water from continuing to enter the bowl. At the same time, locate the shut-off valve —usually behind or next to the base of your toilet—and turn it clockwise to stop water flow entirely. If the valve is stuck or you can’t reach it, lift the float ball or cup inside the tank to stop the refill process temporarily. You’ve just bought yourself time to deal with the issue without more water spilling out. Step 2: Clean Up the Overflow (Without Spreading Germs) Once the water has stopped rising, it’s time to handle the mess—safely and thoroughly. Start With Containment Use old towels or a mop to soak up the water from the floor. If the overflow was clean water (like from a flush without waste), it’s a lot easier to manage. But if the overflow includes waste, treat the situation like a biohazard. Wear gloves, use a disinfectant, and dispose of everything you used to clean up properly. Disinfect Everything It Touched Toilet water—even clean-looking water—can carry bacteria. Use a bleach-based cleaner or disinfectant on every surface that got wet, including baseboards, walls, and any rugs or items on the floor. Open windows or turn on an exhaust fan to help things dry quickly and prevent mold. Step 3: Unclog the Toilet Like a Pro Now that the overflow is under control, it’s time to tackle the root cause: the clog. Use the Right Plunger Not all plungers are equal. For toilets, you’ll need a flange plunger , which has an extended lip designed to seal over the curved toilet opening. Insert it firmly into the bowl and push and pull with force—while maintaining the seal. It might take several tries, but most clogs will break up with this method. Bring in the Toilet Auger If plunging doesn’t work, try a toilet auger —a flexible, crank-style tool that can reach deep into the drain to break apart or remove the clog. It’s easy to use and very effective for stubborn blockages. Still stuck after trying both tools? That’s your sign to call in a professional plumber. Tips for Conserving Water at Home Hidden Risks: Why You Should Take Overflows Seriously Toilet overflows might seem like a minor inconvenience, but they can lead to much bigger problems if left untreated. Water Damage and Mold If water seeps under your tile, linoleum, or wooden flooring, it can rot the subfloor and weaken your home’s foundation over time. Damp conditions are also perfect for mold and mildew, which can lead to respiratory issues and structural damage. Health Hazards When waste or contaminated water is involved, the health risks increase. Harmful bacteria and viruses can survive on surfaces and in porous materials. That’s why thorough cleaning isn’t optional—it’s essential. Expert Recommendations: What Plumbers Want You to Know Plumbers deal with toilet overflows every day, and they often say the same thing: “Watch what you flush.” The Golden Rule: If It’s Not Toilet Paper, Don’t Flush It Even products labeled “flushable” can cause clogs. Wipes, cotton swabs, paper towels, and feminine hygiene items don’t break down like toilet paper does and can accumulate in your pipes over time. Schedule Regular Plumbing Inspections If your toilet overflows often or drains slowly, get your plumbing system inspected. A professional can spot pipe damage, root intrusions, or blockages before they cause a crisis. Prevention Is Key: How to Stop Overflows Before They Start Once you've dealt with a toilet overflow, you’ll never want to repeat the experience. The good news is—preventing it is mostly about good habits. Make Toilet Rules in Your Household Teach everyone, especially children, what not to flush. Keep trash cans nearby so people aren’t tempted to toss tissues or other items into the bowl. Check and Maintain Toilet Parts Periodically open the tank and make sure the float, flapper, and fill valve are in good condition. If your toilet runs frequently or the bowl water level seems too high, make adjustments or replace the worn parts. Have Tools Handy Keep a flange plunger and a toilet auger in or near your bathroom. In an emergency, being prepared makes all the difference. Conclusion: You’re in Control, Even When Things Overflow Toilet overflows may be messy, inconvenient, and a little gross—but they don’t have to ruin your day. With calm action, a bit of know-how, and the right tools, you can take control of the situation and prevent it from getting worse. The best part? Every overflow is a learning experience that makes you better prepared for the future. So if it ever happens again (and let’s hope it doesn’t), you’ll know exactly what to do: stop the water, clean smart, unclog like a boss, and take steps to make sure your toilet stays trouble-free.
