Summer in the Twin Cities is all about backyard grilling, family cookouts, and refreshing meals, until your kitchen sink starts smelling or your garbage disposal jams. A properly functioning disposal makes meal cleanup easier, but many homeowners unknowingly put the wrong items down the drain, leading to clogs, unpleasant odors, and even costly repairs.
If you live in Minneapolis or nearby suburbs, taking a few smart steps now can help keep your garbage disposal running smoothly all summer. In this guide, we’ll walk through how your disposal works, what not to do, and seven essential maintenance tips to protect your plumbing and your peace of mind.
Why Garbage Disposal Problems Spike in Summer
Warm weather and frequent use go hand-in-hand with disposal trouble. You may notice:
- A sour smell coming from the drain
- Slower drainage after rinsing dishes
- A loud grinding sound when the disposal is running
- Food waste backing up into the sink
These issues are often caused by common summer mistakes like disposing of greasy barbecue leftovers or corn husks. Over time, they lead to buildup, motor strain, or even a complete disposal failure.
Luckily, most problems are preventable with proper care.
What Shouldn’t Go in a Garbage Disposal?
Before we jump into maintenance tips, it’s important to know what not to put down the disposal. Even the most powerful units have limits.
Avoid disposing of these items:
- Grease, oil, or fats (they harden and clog pipes)
- Fibrous vegetables (celery, corn husks, onion skins)
- Coffee grounds
- Bones or fruit pits
- Pasta, rice, or bread (they swell and create blockages)
- Eggshells (can create gritty residue)
- Harsh chemicals or drain cleaners
If in doubt, toss it in the trash or compost instead.
7 Garbage Disposal Tips for a Smooth-Running Summer
1. Always Use Cold Water
Run cold water while the disposal is in use and for 10–15 seconds afterward. Cold water helps solidify greasy substances, allowing the blades to chop them up more effectively and send them through the pipes without sticking.
2. Clean with Ice Cubes and Salt
Drop a few ice cubes and a tablespoon of coarse salt into the disposal, then run it for 10–15 seconds. This helps scrape off residue from the blades and interior walls without using harsh chemicals. It’s an easy monthly habit that improves performance.
3. Freshen Up with Citrus
To get rid of mild odors, run a few citrus peels—like orange, lemon, or lime—through the disposal. The natural oils help clean the unit and leave behind a fresh scent.
4. Avoid Overloading
During summer events or family meals, it’s tempting to shove large amounts of waste down the drain. Instead, feed food scraps gradually to avoid overwhelming the motor. Let the disposal fully process one batch before adding more.
5. Check for Leaks
Look under your sink occasionally to check for moisture or dripping near the disposal. Leaks can develop from worn gaskets or loose connections. Catching them early can prevent water damage or mold growth.
6. Flush Regularly
Every week or so, flush your disposal and kitchen drain with a solution of baking soda and vinegar. Let it foam for a few minutes before rinsing with hot water. This helps break down minor buildup and neutralize odors.
7. Schedule a Professional Inspection
If your disposal is making strange noises or just isn’t working like it used to, it may be time for a tune-up or replacement. Northern Benjamin Franklin Plumbing offers professional kitchen plumbing services in Minneapolis and surrounding communities. Our licensed plumbers can quickly diagnose the issue and recommend the best solution without the guesswork.
Common Signs Your Disposal Needs a Pro
Even with proper care, garbage disposals don’t last forever. Here’s when to call in the experts:
- Persistent odors that don’t go away with cleaning
- The unit hums but doesn’t grind
- Frequent clogs despite cautious use
- Water leaking from the bottom of the unit
- Your disposal is more than 10–12 years old
Trying to fix or replace a disposal yourself can lead to injury or further damage. Let our punctual and experienced team handle it safely and efficiently.
Stay Ahead of Summer Plumbing Issues
Your garbage disposal is one of the most used but least appreciated kitchen tools—until it stops working. With the right maintenance habits, you can extend its life, avoid smelly surprises, and keep your summer cooking cleanup stress-free.
Need help with disposal repair or replacement in the Twin Cities? Contact Northern Benjamin Franklin Plumbing for reliable, on-time service backed by our satisfaction guarantee. Whether you’re in Minneapolis, Bloomington, Maple Grove, or anywhere nearby, we’re here to keep your plumbing running smoothly all year long.
Need help now?
Schedule service online today and experience why we’re known as The Punctual Plumber® – if we’re late to your home for any reason, we’ll make it up to you by providing a discount for the inconvenience!