As a homeowner, it’s not uncommon to catch a whiff of a funky smell here and there. Maybe you forgot to take out the trash, or perhaps the milk sat in the refrigerator past the expiration date. However, if a nasty smell is coming from your sink’s garbage disposal, there may be a few causes of the problem.
If your garbage disposal smells, have no fear! The team at After Hour Plumbing & Drain has compiled a guide to help you solve the issue. Read ahead to learn what creates foul odors in your garbage disposal and how you can prevent them in the future.
Why My Garbage Disposal Smells Bad?
Rotten Food
Your garbage disposal can efficiently grind up food waste during the cooking process. The machinery pulverizes food into small pieces, which prevents it from clogging your pipes. But, if the system is not operated frequently, food can accumulate beneath your sink. A few foods you should not put in your disposal are:
- Potato peels
- Grease and oil
- Coffee grounds
- Eggshells
- Onion skins
These items belong in a garbage can, not in your disposal! These items can clog your system, preventing it from working properly. Regularly cleaning your garbage disposal can eliminate the possibility of rotting food in your pipes.
Sewer Gasses
Your home’s plumbing is designed to dispose of sewage and contains harmful sewer gasses. If your kitchen sink smells rotten and sewer-like, your system is likely malfunctioning. Blockages and faulty parts can cause sewer gasses to emit from your sink. These issues can be corrected with the help of a professional plumber.
Mold And Mildew
Believe it or not, your garbage disposal can become the perfect environment for mold and mildew. When food decomposes, it can cause bacteria to grow. The warm and moist environment can house mold, creating an unpleasant stench within your kitchen.
How To Prevent A Smelly Garbage Disposal
It’s crucial to keep your plumbing system in tip-top shape! Regular maintenance can prevent objects from accumulating in your pipes, keeping your kitchen smelling fresh. Here are a few cleaning tips to help keep your garbage disposal clean:
Rinse With Hot Water
When your system is running, you should rinse your disposal with hot water. Food particles and other residues are washed away when water runs through the pipes, preventing any rotting. Soapy water can also help efficiently clean your system’s blades and pipes.
Use Baking Soda And Vinegar
When in doubt, baking soda, vinegar and warm water can clean a dirty garbage disposal! The mixture helps break down food particles in your drain. Pour ½ cup of baking soda and ½ cup of vinegar down your system and allow it to sit for approximately 30 minutes. After the mixture has sat, you can run warm water to loosen any smelly residue.
Call An Expert For A Professional Cleaning
If DIY odor remedies fail, an experienced plumber can perform a thorough drain cleaning. Food particles can harden over time, potentially damaging your kitchen plumbing. A technician can use professional cleaners and other techniques to remove stubborn objects from your drain.
High-Quality Garbage Disposal Repair In Monterey
Most home systems require maintenance at some point. At After Hour Plumbing & Drain, we’re here to help with any plumbing-related problem in your Monterey home. If you believe you’re in need of garbage disposal repairs, give us a call to begin the process!