Garbage disposals are an appliance we use often and likely take for granted. They are located under the kitchen sink(s) and connected to the sink drain and dishwasher drain. Water from both drains, plus small food particles, passes through this device before exiting to the main drain and the sewer system.

Here's an essential guide from the team at Rosie on the House.

Water flowing down the drain then flushes these particles into the main house drain. It is important to note there are no blades in the garbage disposal. The blunt impellers and grinding disc do the work.

With this cursory knowledge, let's look at how to maintain good working order of our disposal.

Food size and type make a huge difference in the ongoing operation of your disposal.

Only Use Cold Water: When flushing items into the disposal, cold water is better than hot water.

Keeping the bad stuff out of the garbage disposal and using cold water to flush food is the key to this appliance's longevity, but not the only piece of the puzzle.

Maintenance is next.

Regular cleaning cycles will vary from household to household, depending on use. A once-a-month cleaning should suffice for average use. Heavier use might call for once a week cleaning. Here are several different suggested methods for you to consider:

Remember to clean the drain gasket! Pieces of food can get caught under the gasket and smell up the works. You would do well to clean both sides of the rubber gasket at your drain. Dish soap or vinegar are good choices for cleaning.

Some gaskets are removable. However, if your gasket is not removable clean the underside of the gasket in place but, do not tear it out!

No discussion of garbage disposal operation would be complete without a HUGE safety WARNING!

Never put your hand in the disposal for any reason if:

When objects cause the device to get stuck, the grinding platforms may have residual movement once dislodged, even if unplugged. Always use a tool and never your hand.