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November 29, 2025

Garbage Disposal Care Tips to Delight Your Holiday Guests

Estimated Read Time: 5 minutes

When the holiday season rolls around, every detail in your home matters—from the twinkling lights outside to the immaculate shine of your kitchen. A well-maintained garbage disposal not only keeps your sink odor-free but also ensures that your guests are greeted with a sparkling clean and functional space. Homeowners in the Austin area and beyond rely on the expert care of SALT Plumbing Air & Electric to keep their plumbing systems running smoothly and their kitchens ready for festive entertaining.

One client, Emily Zeringer, shared her experience after having her garbage disposal replaced by SALT professionals. She praised how quickly and efficiently it was handled, adding that “AJ and Paul were awesome. Super nice and friendly. They replaced my garbage disposal in no time and explained everything along the way. Very happy with service and will use again” [0]. Reviews like Emily’s, along with feedback from many satisfied customers, highlight why SALT Plumbing Air & Electric is trusted by homeowners across Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, Cedar Park, Leander, Pflugerville, Kyle, Hutto, Del Valle, and Belton.

Smart Garbage Disposal Maintenance Practices

Regular Cleaning and Deodorizing

Garbage disposals work hard to process food scraps and debris, and over time grease and buildup can lead to odors or even clogs. To keep your unit in top condition:

  • Run cold water through the disposal during and after use. Cold helps solidify any fats so they can be chopped up rather than coating the blades.
  • Periodically grind natural deodorizers like lemon or orange peels. The citrus not only freshens your sink but also helps remove residue.
  • For a deeper clean, mix a solution of baking soda and vinegar. Let the fizz work its magic for about 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with cold water.

Avoiding Trouble Spots

Prevention is key when it comes to garbage disposals. Avoid common pitfalls by:

  • Refraining from putting fibrous produce (such as celery or corn husks) and starchy or greasy foods into the disposal—they can tangle the blades or clog the unit.
  • Never pour fat, oil, or grease down the drain, as these can solidify and combine with other food particles to create blockages.
  • Only run the disposal when there’s ample water flow to help flush out debris immediately.

Professional Maintenance: When to Call the Experts

Even with careful home maintenance, issues can occasionally arise. Consider scheduling a professional inspection if:

  • You notice persistent odors even after cleaning.
  • Your disposal starts making unusual noises or vibrating more than usual.
  • There’s a decline in performance, such as slower grinding or sporadic stoppages.

A testimonial from Ryan Coaxum sums up the professional touch that SALT brings to every job: “Absolutely stellar service from SALT Plumbing Air & Electric! They were incredibly thorough in their work and took the time to explain everything they were doing, which reassured me that my home was in great hands” [1]. Routine professional maintenance not only prolongs the life of your garbage disposal but can also prevent unexpected repairs during the busiest holiday season.

Handy Tips to Prevent Future Issues

Tip 1: Educate Your Household

Make sure everyone in your household knows what should—and should not—go into the disposal. Demonstrating what items are safe to grind can prevent costly damage and extend the life of your unit.

Tip 2: Use the Disposal Regularly

Infrequent use of a garbage disposal can allow food residue to settle and cause odors or bacterial growth. Even when you’re not cooking a full meal, it’s wise to run the disposal with cold water periodically.

Tip 3: Schedule Seasonal Checks

As holidays approach, it is particularly important to schedule a checkup. Regular inspections, as recommended by professionals at SALT Plumbing Air & Electric, ensure that your disposal and overall plumbing are working efficiently, keeping you ready to host without worry.

Tip 4: Know When to Replace

Sometimes, despite your best care and regular maintenance, your garbage disposal may show signs of old age. If you notice frequent clogs, persistent bad odors, or unexplainable noises, it may be time to consider a replacement. One of our clients, Jamie Eads, appreciated the diagnostic attention paid during a routine appointment: “They spent plenty of time doing a full diagnosis and then explained what exactly was wrong in language that even I, with no technical background, could understand” [2]. Clear communication from experienced professionals helps you make informed decisions about maintaining or replacing your unit.

Why SALT Plumbing Air & Electric Is Your Go-To for Kitchen Peace of Mind

With over four decades of service since 1984 and being voted Austin’s #1 in plumbing, air, and electrical services, SALT Plumbing Air & Electric is synonymous with reliability and quality. Their comprehensive approach is not just about fixing issues but about preventing them. By educating homeowners and offering timely services, they ensure that every part of your home’s plumbing—from your garbage disposal to your entire drain system—is in optimal working condition.

As demonstrated by the heartfelt testimonials from our customers, including Emily’s efficient garbage disposal replacement and Ryan’s praise for thorough service, SALT takes pride in making home maintenance hassle-free. This holiday season, let your guests admire not only your décor but also the seamless functionality of your kitchen appliances.

Final Thoughts

A properly maintained garbage disposal is more than just a convenience—it’s a vital component of a clean, welcoming home. By following regular cleaning routines, avoiding common pitfalls, and knowing when to call in the professionals, you can ensure your kitchen is always ready for entertaining. Trust in the expertise and exceptional customer service of SALT Plumbing Air & Electric to keep your garbage disposal, along with your entire plumbing system, running at its best.

Make this holiday season stress-free and memorable for both you and your guests. Call SALT Plumbing Air & Electric at (512) 559-4206 or visit callsalt.com to schedule a service and join the many satisfied customers who rely on us for quality, reliability, and outstanding service [0], [1], [2].

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