Handling Your Kitchen’s Plumbing Wisely

You rely on your kitchen’s plumbing every day. Making the best use of your disposal and dishwasher will ensure they stay in good repair to minimize plumbing issues. If you run into a problem you can’t fix yourself, however, call in a plumber to ensure the job is done right.

Disposal Tips

Smart use of your disposal will keep your unit in great repair and your kitchen sink’s plumbing clear.
If you plan to use your disposal, do so regularly to keep it in working order. While many foods can be safely put down your disposal, items that will clog or break its parts should be thrown in the trash instead. This includes coffee grounds, eggshells, fruit rinds, animal bones, rice, pasta, and instant “just add water” foods. Fat and grease should never be poured down your disposal or any drain, as they quickly cool and congeal to clog your plumbing. Instead, keep these wastes in a sealed tin or jar and dispose of them in the trash when the jar is full.

Dishwasher Tips

Your dishwasher is a wonderful modern convenience, and a few steps can make it more effective and energy-efficient. Whenever possible, run your dishwasher only once it is full. Leave space between breakable items, such as glasses, to prevent damage during the washing cycle. Running your dishwasher during times when there is no other water usage in your home, such as at night or while you’re at work, will take advantage of the increased water pressure to clean your dishes more effectively. Some items, including wood, cast iron, and hand blown glass, should not be put in the dishwasher.

Handling Kitchen Plumbing Problems

One of the most common kitchen plumbing problems is a clogged sink. If your sink is draining slowly or completely backed up, use a plunger to loosen any clogs and flush them through your system. Never pour a chemical drain cleaner down your disposal, as it can corrode or otherwise damage the parts. If you suspect the clog is caught in your disposal’s drain trap, this piece of piping can be easily removed with a wrench and cleaned out. Make sure to unplug your disposal and place a bucket beneath the drain trap before proceeding. Dishwasher problems such as consistently dirty dishes can be addressed by adding more detergent during the washing cycle. If this doesn’t solve the problem, call a plumber to check the water intake valve. It may need to be replaced. You can also try cleaning the dishwasher’s jets with a paperclip or pin; if minerals build up on these jets, it can reduce the water pressure and efficiency inside your dishwasher. If your home has hard water, talk to you plumber about softening your water. This will improve the performance of all your plumbing appliances.

Using your kitchen’s appliances wisely will save water and provide consistent performance. For more tips on maintaining your kitchen’s plumbing, check out our website for more information or to contact us.