Kitchens: The Latest, Top Articles
Get the most recent kitchen news and trends.
Articles: Everything Cabinets
Why Shouldn’t You Use a Garbage Disposal?
Question: Why Shouldn’t You Use a Garbage Disposal? Answer: You shouldn’t use a garbage disposal because they can cause plumbing clogs with grease and fibrous foods, harm septic systems, and increase the load on wastewater treatment plants. Using one also consumes extra water and electricity, making composting a more environmentally friendly alternative for food scraps. … Continue reading Why Shouldn’t You Use a Garbage Disposal?
Is It Easy to Replace Your Garbage Disposal?
Question: Is It Easy to Replace Your Garbage Disposal? Answer: For those with basic plumbing and electrical skills, it is fairly easy to replace your garbage disposal. It involves disconnecting pipes and wiring, swapping units, and reconnecting everything. If you are not comfortable with these tasks, hiring a professional is the easiest option. How Difficult … Continue reading Is It Easy to Replace Your Garbage Disposal?
What to Use Instead of a Garbage Disposal?
“`html Question: What to Use Instead of a Garbage Disposal? Answer: What to Use Instead of a Garbage Disposal? Use a sink strainer to catch solids and scrape food scraps into a compost bin or trash can. Composting is an eco-friendly choice that reduces landfill waste, while a strainer helps prevent plumbing clogs from food … Continue reading What to Use Instead of a Garbage Disposal?
Is It Better to Throw Food Away or Use a Garbage Disposal?
Question: Is It Better to Throw Food Away or Use a Garbage Disposal? Answer: Using a garbage disposal is generally better than throwing food away. It diverts food from landfills, where it produces potent methane gas. Wastewater treatment plants can process the scraps, sometimes converting them into biosolids for fertilizer or capturing gas for energy. … Continue reading Is It Better to Throw Food Away or Use a Garbage Disposal?
Can I Replace My Garbage Disposal by Myself?
Question: Can I Replace My Garbage Disposal by Myself? Answer: Yes, if you are comfortable with basic plumbing and electrical work. For safety, you must turn off power to the unit at the circuit breaker. The project involves disconnecting pipes, removing the old disposal, and installing the new one, which is a manageable task for … Continue reading Can I Replace My Garbage Disposal by Myself?
What Is the Downside to a Garbage Disposal?
Question: What Is the Downside to a Garbage Disposal? Answer: Downsides to a garbage disposal include potential plumbing clogs from grease or fibrous foods, increased water and electricity usage, and strain on sewer systems. They can also jam, create odors, and require maintenance or repairs. The Hidden Disadvantages of a Garbage Disposal Garbage disposals offer … Continue reading What Is the Downside to a Garbage Disposal?
What Is the Best Way to Clean Your Garbage Disposal?
Question: What Is the Best Way to Clean Your Garbage Disposal? Answer: The best way to clean your garbage disposal is to first grind ice cubes and coarse salt to scrub the blades. Then, add citrus peels to deodorize. For a deeper clean, pour baking soda and vinegar down the drain, let it fizz, and … Continue reading What Is the Best Way to Clean Your Garbage Disposal?
How to Pick the Right Garbage Disposal?
Question: How to Pick the Right Garbage Disposal? Answer: To pick the right garbage disposal, consider horsepower based on your household size (1/2 HP is standard), grind stages for finer results, and noise level. Look for stainless steel components for durability and ensure the unit’s physical size fits under your sink. Selecting the Perfect Garbage … Continue reading How to Pick the Right Garbage Disposal?
How Long Are You Supposed to Run a Garbage Disposal?
Question: How Long Are You Supposed to Run a Garbage Disposal? Answer: You are supposed to run a garbage disposal with cold water until the grinding noise stops, typically under 30 seconds. After turning the disposal off, let the water run for another 15 seconds to flush the drain line completely. How Long Should You … Continue reading How Long Are You Supposed to Run a Garbage Disposal?
Do Ice Cubes Clean the Garbage Disposal?
Question: Do Ice Cubes Clean the Garbage Disposal? Answer: Yes, ice cubes can partially clean a garbage disposal. Ice helps clean by scouring away food residue from the grinding components, which can also sharpen the blades. However, ice does not sanitize or deodorize the unit. For a fresh scent, add citrus peels with the ice … Continue reading Do Ice Cubes Clean the Garbage Disposal?
Why Don’t Plumbers Like Garbage Disposals?
Question: Why Don’t Plumbers Like Garbage Disposals? Answer: Pumbers don’t like garbage disposals as they are a top source of clogs and service calls. Misuse with grease, fibrous foods, and coffee grounds causes blockages. The units can also jam, leak, or fail, adding a frequent and messy point of failure to the plumbing system. A … Continue reading Why Don’t Plumbers Like Garbage Disposals?
What Foods Not to Put Down a Garbage Disposal?
Question: What Foods Not to Put Down a Garbage Disposal? Answer: Foods you should not put down a garbage disposal include grease, oil, and fats, which solidify and clog pipes. Also, do not dispose of fibrous vegetables (celery), starchy foods (pasta, rice), coffee grounds, bones, or eggshells, as they can wrap around blades or create … Continue reading What Foods Not to Put Down a Garbage Disposal?
What Cannot Go Into a Garbage Disposal?
Question: What Cannot Go Into a Garbage Disposal? Answer: Things that cannot go into a garbage disposal include grease, fats, oils, bones, or fibrous vegetables like celery. Also avoid starchy foods like pasta and potato peels, coffee grounds, and fruit pits. These items can clog pipes, jam the motor, and cause significant plumbing damage. What … Continue reading What Cannot Go Into a Garbage Disposal?
How Do I Sharpen My Garbage Disposal Blades?
Question: How Do I Sharpen My Garbage Disposal Blades? Answer: Garbage disposals have blunt impellers, not sharp blades, so they don’t need sharpening. To clean the grinding components and break up buildup, run a few handfuls of ice cubes through the disposal. For deodorizing, you can also add citrus peels. Garbage Disposal Blades A slow-draining … Continue reading How Do I Sharpen My Garbage Disposal Blades?
Does Bleach Damage a Garbage Disposal?
Question: Does Bleach Damage a Garbage Disposal? Answer: Yes, bleach can damage your garbage disposal. Over time, the corrosive chemical can degrade metal components and rubber seals. It can also harm the beneficial bacteria in septic systems. It is better to use ice cubes, citrus peels, or a designated disposal cleaner instead. The Truth About … Continue reading Does Bleach Damage a Garbage Disposal?
Should You Put Eggshells in the Garbage Disposal?
Question: Should You Put Eggshells in the Garbage Disposal? Answer: No, you should not put eggshells in the garbage disposal. The shell’s thin membrane can wrap around the blades, and the ground shell particles can build up in pipes, eventually causing clogs. Composting or throwing them in the trash are better options for your plumbing. … Continue reading Should You Put Eggshells in the Garbage Disposal?
How Long Do Garbage Disposals Usually Last?
Question: How Long Do Garbage Disposals Usually Last? Answer: A typical garbage disposal lasts 8 to 15 years. Its lifespan depends on the model’s quality, frequency of use, and proper maintenance. Avoiding hard items like bones, grease, and fibrous foods will help maximize its life and prevent premature failure. The Lifespan of Your Garbage Disposal … Continue reading How Long Do Garbage Disposals Usually Last?
Should I Get a 1/2 or 3/4 Hp Garbage Disposal?
Question: Should I Get a 1/2 or 3/4 Hp Garbage Disposal? Answer: Choose a 1/2 HP garbage disposal for smaller households (1-3 people) with light cooking needs. A 3/4 HP model is better for larger families or frequent cooks, as its stronger motor grinds tougher food scraps like small bones and fibrous vegetables, reducing jams. … Continue reading Should I Get a 1/2 or 3/4 Hp Garbage Disposal?
Can You Pour Vinegar in a Garbage Disposal?
Question: Can You Pour Vinegar in a Garbage Disposal? Answer: Yes, you can pour vinegar in a garbage disposal. Pouring vinegar in your disposal is a safe and effective way to clean and deodorize it. Its acidity helps break down grease and food buildup. For a powerful clean, combine it with baking soda to create … Continue reading Can You Pour Vinegar in a Garbage Disposal?
All About Garbage Disposals
Everything About Garbage Disposals This post tries to explain all about garbage disposals, an appliance found in some modern kitchens. A garbage disposal, also known as a food waste disposer, is a device installed under a kitchen sink between the sink’s drain and the trap. It shreds food waste into small pieces, typically less than … Continue reading All About Garbage Disposals
How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Chest Freezer?
Question: How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Chest Freezer? Answer: The cost to fix a chest freezer ranges from $100 to $400. The final price depends on the specific problem, the cost of replacement parts (like a thermostat or compressor), and local labor rates. Minor repairs are cheaper, while major component replacements are … Continue reading How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Chest Freezer?
Is It Worth Fixing a Chest Freezer?
Question: Is It Worth Fixing a Chest Freezer? Answer: Whether or not it is worth fixing a chest freezer depends on several factors. If the repair cost is less than 50% of the price of a new one and your freezer is under 10 years old, fixing it is often worthwhile. For major issues like … Continue reading Is It Worth Fixing a Chest Freezer?
What Is the Life Expectancy of a Chest Freezer?
Question: What Is the Life Expectancy of a Chest Freezer? Answer: The life expectancy of a chest freezer varies but if well-maintained can last between 15 to 20 years, often outliving other major appliances. Longevity depends on the brand, proper usage, and regular maintenance like cleaning the coils and ensuring a proper seal. How Long … Continue reading What Is the Life Expectancy of a Chest Freezer?
What to Look for When Buying a Chest Freezer
How to Choose the Perfect Chest Freezer A chest freezer offers a significant amount of storage for frozen goods. You can buy food in bulk, preserve seasonal produce, or store pre-made meals. This appliance saves you money and reduces food waste. It provides peace of mind, knowing you have a well-stocked supply of food available. … Continue reading What to Look for When Buying a Chest Freezer
When Should You Replace a Chest Freezer?
Question: When Should You Replace a Chest Freezer? Answer: You should replace your chest freezer if it’s over 15 years old, builds up excessive frost, or the motor runs constantly. Also consider replacement if it fails to keep food frozen or if a repair costs more than 50% of a new, energy-efficient model. Signs It’s … Continue reading When Should You Replace a Chest Freezer?
What to Know Before Buying a Chest Freezer?
Question: What to Know Before Buying a Chest Freezer? Answer: What you should know before buying a chest freezer: Consider the capacity you need, the external dimensions for your space, and energy efficiency. Key features include manual defrost (more efficient), organizational baskets, and garage-ready capabilities if placing it in an unheated area. Always measure your … Continue reading What to Know Before Buying a Chest Freezer?
Does a Chest Freezer Work Better Full or Empty?
Question: Does a Chest Freezer Work Better Full or Empty? Answer: A chest freezer works better when full. The frozen contents act as a thermal mass, holding the cold and stabilizing the temperature. This means the compressor runs less often, making it more energy-efficient. Use containers of water to fill empty space for the same … Continue reading Does a Chest Freezer Work Better Full or Empty?
Can You Run a Chest Freezer in an Unheated Garage?
Question: Can You Run a Chest Freezer in an Unheated Garage? Answer: Yes, you can run a chest freezer in an unheated garage, but it depends on the model and climate. Standard freezers can fail in temperatures below 32°F (0°C). For reliable performance in extreme cold or heat, you should purchase a “garage-ready” freezer specifically … Continue reading Can You Run a Chest Freezer in an Unheated Garage?
Can You Plug a Chest Freezer Into Any Outlet?
Question: Can You Plug a Chest Freezer Into Any Outlet? Answer: No, you cannot plug a chest freezer into just any outlet. A chest freezer requires a standard 120V, grounded (three-prong) outlet, preferably on a dedicated circuit to prevent overload. Never use an extension cord or power strip, as this creates a fire hazard and … Continue reading Can You Plug a Chest Freezer Into Any Outlet?
Can Chest Freezers Be Frost-free?
Question: Can Chest Freezers Be Frost-free? Answer: No, traditional chest freezers are not frost-free and require manual defrosting. The technology uses fans and heating elements, which is inefficient for their design and typically found in upright models. Some may be marketed as “low-frost” but are not truly frost-free. The Reality of Frost-Free Chest Freezers Many … Continue reading Can Chest Freezers Be Frost-free?
Why Does My Garbage Disposal Stink Even After Cleaning?
Question: Why Does My Garbage Disposal Stink Even After Cleaning? Answer: Garbage disposal odours persist even after cleaning due to food particles and slime buildup in hard-to-reach places like under the splash guard, behind the impellers, or in the connecting drainpipe. A deeper clean is needed to remove this hidden gunk, which surface cleaning often … Continue reading Why Does My Garbage Disposal Stink Even After Cleaning?
What Is the Best Thing to Clean Your Garbage Disposal With?
Question: What Is the Best Thing to Clean Your Garbage Disposal With? Answer: The best thing to clean your garbage disposal with is a combination of items. Use ice cubes to scour the blades and citrus peels to deodorize. For a deeper clean, use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar, followed by a cold … Continue reading What Is the Best Thing to Clean Your Garbage Disposal With?
Is It Cheaper to Repair or Replace a Garbage Disposal?
Question: Is It Cheaper to Repair or Replace a Garbage Disposal? Answer: Repairing a garbage disposal is cheaper for simple issues like jams. For major problems like leaks or motor failure, replacement is often more cost-effective. If the unit is old or the repair cost is over 50% of a new one, it’s usually better … Continue reading Is It Cheaper to Repair or Replace a Garbage Disposal?
How to Tell If a Garbage Disposal Needs to Be Replaced?
Question: How to Tell If a Garbage Disposal Needs to Be Replaced? Answer: To tell if a garbage disposal needs to be replaced look for frequent clogs, persistent foul odors, loud grinding noises, or water leaking from the unit’s body. If it constantly needs resetting or fails to turn on at all, it’s likely time … Continue reading How to Tell If a Garbage Disposal Needs to Be Replaced?
How Often Should You Clean Your Garbage Disposal?
Question: How Often Should You Clean Your Garbage Disposal? Answer: For optimal performance, you should clean your garbage disposal weekly and a deep cleaning monthly. A weekly cleaning with ice and citrus peels prevents minor buildup, while a monthly flush with baking soda and vinegar eliminates stubborn odours and residue. This regular maintenance keeps your … Continue reading How Often Should You Clean Your Garbage Disposal?
Which Is Cheaper to Run, Upright or Chest Freezer?
Question: Which Is Cheaper to Run, Upright or Chest Freezer? Answer: Chest freezers are typically cheaper to run. Their design retains cold air more effectively when the lid is opened, as cold air is dense and sinks. This leads to greater energy efficiency and lower electricity bills compared to upright models of a similar size. … Continue reading Which Is Cheaper to Run, Upright or Chest Freezer?
What Are the Disadvantages of a Chest Freezer?
Question: What Are the Disadvantages of a Chest Freezer? Answer: Disadvantages of chest freezers include their large size, which can make organization difficult as items get buried at the bottom. This poor accessibility can be challenging, and most models require inconvenient manual defrosting. They also typically lack an auto-light feature. The Drawbacks of a Chest … Continue reading What Are the Disadvantages of a Chest Freezer?
Is a Deep Freezer Just a Chest Freezer?
Question: Is a Deep Freezer Just a Chest Freezer? Answer: No, a deep freezer is not just a chest freezer. “Deep freezer” is a general term for any standalone freezer, including both chest and upright models. A chest freezer is a specific type of deep freezer, identified by its horizontal, top-opening design. So, all chest … Continue reading Is a Deep Freezer Just a Chest Freezer?
How Do I Know If My Chest Freezer Is Going Bad?
Question: How Do I Know If My Chest Freezer Is Going Bad? Answer: To know if your chest freezer is going bad, look for signs like thawing food, excessive frost buildup, a constantly running motor, loud noises, or an unusually hot exterior. These symptoms suggest your freezer is failing and may require service to prevent … Continue reading How Do I Know If My Chest Freezer Is Going Bad?
Does Food Last Longer in a Chest Freezer?
Question: Does Food Last Longer in a Chest Freezer? Answer: Yes, food lasts longer in a chest freezer. Chest freezers maintain colder, more consistent temperatures. Since cold air sinks, less escapes when the lid is opened compared to an upright model. This stability significantly reduces freezer burn, preserving food quality for longer periods. How Freezer … Continue reading Does Food Last Longer in a Chest Freezer?
