September 14/2020
Why Is My Garbage Disposal Smelly?
Do you avoid rinsing dishes and preparing meals because of your stinky garbage disposal? Are you concerned that your smelly kitchen sink may be a sign of an underlying plumbing issue? At Mr. Rooter Plumbing, we provide high quality residential and commercial plumbing services including garbage disposal repair and replacement in New Jersey. Here are some common reasons why garbage disposals develop foul odors, and what you can do to fix it.
Common Causes of Smelly Garbage Disposals
There are many different reasons why garbage disposals can begin to smell. This is a device that is used to grind up food before it enters your drain line. The constant exposure to food and water creates the perfect breeding ground for bacteria and mold, which often emit terrible smells. The stench could also come from decomposing food and grease that has become stuck to the interior walls of your drainpipe. In some cases, the foul odors may be sewer gases that are rising through the drain. If so, then the problem is not caused by the garbage disposal at all but is probably due to a dried-up trap or sewer vent issue.
Prevention Tips
Periodically clean the drain with a vinegar, dishwashing soap and baking soda solution. Then, leave the hot water on for a while to rinse out the debris. It is also a good idea to run cold water into the drain when the garbage disposal is being used. Dropping lemon peels and ice cubes into the disposal once a month can help to dislodge debris from the blades while leaving a behind a pleasant smell. It is also important to avoid placing certain food items into your garbage disposal, such as bacon grease, celery stalks, eggshells, rice, potatoes, carrot peels, chicken bones, corn husks and coffee grounds. These materials will cause clogs inside your sewer line and can harm the disposal.
When Should You Call a Professional Plumber?
If you have kept your drains cleaned and are properly using your garbage disposal, but are still dealing with bad odors, then you may need to contact a nearby plumber. A professional can inspect your disposal, remove buildup on the unit, clean your drain line, or check for issues with the trap or vent.
Do You Need Help with Your Garbage Disposal? Call Mr. Rooter Plumbing Today
Have you determined that the stench in your kitchen sink is caused by a sewer or drain line issue? Do you need to repair or replace your garbage disposal? Then call the experts at Mr. Rooter Plumbing. Our team of certified, licensed and insured plumbers are ready to lend a helping hand. Contact our office to learn more about our wide variety of commercial and residential plumbing services or to schedule a convenient appointment with a qualified plumber in Jackson Township, Oakhurst, Ocean Township, Colts Neck, Rumson Township, Eatontown Township, Red Bank, Freehold Township, Howell Township, Middletown Township, New Jersey and surrounding metro area communities.
