December 28, 2025
Avoid Garbage Disposal Jams: Essential Winter Maintenance Tips
Estimated Read Time: 2 minutes
Winter is the perfect time to focus on keeping your home’s appliances running smoothly, and one important area often overlooked is the garbage disposal. As temperatures drop, your disposal might face challenges that can lead to annoying jams and costly repairs. However, with a few essential maintenance tips, you can ensure your disposal functions optimally throughout the winter months.
Understanding the Common Causes of Jams
Garbage disposals are prone to jams for several reasons, particularly during colder seasons. The increased use of starchy and fibrous foods like potatoes and celery can lead to clogs. As Shirley M. noted, proper disposal cleaning is crucial to maintaining its function[0].
Essential Winter Maintenance Tips
1. Mindful Usage
Avoid putting large amounts of fibrous vegetables, grease, or coffee grounds down the disposal. Bonnie S. shared her positive experience with receiving advice on what to avoid disposing of to prevent jams[5].
2. Regular Cleaning
For cleaning, use a safe disposal cleaner or a natural mixture of baking soda and vinegar to remove buildup. Regular cleaning prevents odors and keeps the blades in good shape, as emphasized by Lawrence S. in his review highlighting the importance of professional maintenance checks[4].
3. Cold Water is Your Friend
Always run cold water during disposal use. Freezing temperatures can make pipes more susceptible to clogs and running cold water keeps fats solid, so they don't adhere to pipes.
4. Regular Professional Check-Ups
Professional maintenance checks are invaluable. Technicians can spot potential issues before they escalate. James appreciated the thoroughness of Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling’s service; professionals help prevent severe blockages[1].
Why Choose Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling?
At Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling, we pride ourselves on exceptional service and expertise in plumbing and HVAC solutions. Our team has been highly rated by 879 reviewers for delivering outstanding experiences[2].
Customer Satisfaction is Our Priority
- Expert Technicians: Reviewers like Caitlin T. have praised our team for their ability to diagnose and resolve issues quickly[3].
- Comprehensive Service: We offer thorough inspections that ensure your disposal and plumbing system are in top condition. This comprehensive approach is evident in the positive feedback from customers like Katelyn S.[6].
Convenience and Care
- 24/7 Availability: Our services are available anytime, ensuring you're never left dealing with a jammed disposal alone.
- Trusted Across the Region: Serving homeowners across Marion, Huntington, and other nearby areas, we’re known for reliability and customer satisfaction.
Keeping your garbage disposal in great shape during winter doesn't have to be difficult. With regular maintenance, mindful usage, and professional support, you can enjoy a hassle-free season. If you're facing issues or simply want to ensure everything is running smoothly, contact us at (765) 613-0053 or visit our website at Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling to book a service today. Let us help keep your home comfortable this winter!