Can You Put Coffee Grounds Down the Sink?

Can You Put Coffee Grounds Down the Sink?

Can You Put Coffee Grounds Down the Sink?

  • Seattle, Wa

Should Coffee Grounds Go Down The Garbage Disposal?

For coffee lovers, the morning cup of joe is sacred. After brewing your cup of coffee, have you ever wondered what to do with the leftover grounds? The common thought is that it’s okay to flush it down the kitchen sink. Unfortunately, the disposal of coffee grounds can be an expensive lesson, especially if you’re in Seattle, Washington, where plumbing issues can be a hassle. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the effects of coffee grounds on your sink and plumbing system.

Drain Break Down

Coffee grounds are one of the most common causes of clogged drains. When you’re washing away coffee grounds down the sink, it may seem like it moves through the drain, but it’s only temporary. Over time, the grounds will accumulate in the drain and become a problem. Coffee grounds do not break down easily like other types of small debris, which leads to clogs that can cause water backups, unpleasant smells, and overall system breakdown. Oftentimes, coffee grounds and other debris build up in the drainpipe, leading to a difficult and costly repair.

Aside from the buildup in the drainpipe, coffee grounds can also damage the garbage disposal. Coffee grounds may seem small, but they’re solid enough to cause harm to the disposal blades. The hardness of coffee grounds can cause a blockage on the blades, which can lead to overheating, failure, or damage. It’s important to note that pour oils, such as vegetable or coconut, are also not healthy for your garbage disposal. Oils can solidify the blades and cause excess buildup in pipes, which can lead to significant and costly plumbing repairs.

Where Should You Put Coffee Grounds?

Instead of pouring coffee grounds down the drain, consider disposing of them elsewhere. It’s best practice to put coffee grounds in the compost bin or landfill, rather than dealing with the ramifications of clogged sinks or failed garbage disposals. For avid coffee drinkers that make coffee every day, using the same sink over time with coffee grounds is asking for trouble. This doesn’t mean that you can’t use the sink at all, merely that it’s best to minimize the frequency with which you use the sink for the disposal of coffee grounds.

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In summary, it’s best to avoid putting coffee grounds down the sink to prevent plumbing problems. Instead, opt for composting, throwing them in the trash, or using eco-friendly options to reduce waste. If you do accidentally dispose of coffee grounds down the sink, take immediate action to prevent blockages and seek the help of a professional plumber if needed. With proper care and maintenance, your plumbing system can remain in good working condition for years to come. If you have any questions about what’s best for your specific needs please consult with one of our qualified estimators at Wezee’s Plumbing. We have been servicing Seattle and its surrounding areas for over 14 years.

Signs That My Garbage Disposal Needs To Be Replaced

Seattle Plumber

Signs That My Garbage Disposal Needs To Be Replaced

Your garbage disposal is an essential part of your kitchen that helps to keep your food waste from ending up in landfills. When properly maintained, it can last for many years without requiring any repairs. However, it can become clogged and damaged if you neglect to clean it regularly. To keep your garbage disposal in top condition, you should run it regularly with hot water and dish soap. You should also avoid putting hard-to-grind items, such as bones or coffee grounds, down the disposal. With proper care, your garbage disposal will give you years of trouble-free service.

Warning Signs To Look For

Is Your Sink Getting Clogged?

If your garbage disposal is clogged, it could be a sign of a bigger problem. Disposals are designed to grind up small pieces of food, but they can’t handle large pieces or tough items like bones. Over time, the blades can become dull or damaged, making it difficult for the disposal to do its job. If you notice that your disposal is starting to clog more frequently, it’s a good idea to have it checked by a professional plumber near you. In some cases, the blades may need to be replaced, or the unit may need to be cleaned out. Ignoring a clogging problem can lead to serious damage and costly repairs.

Do You Have To Push The Reset Button Constantly?

If your garbage disposal is jammed or clogged, you may need to reset it. Resetting the disposal will clear the jam and allow the blades to start spinning again. To reset the disposal, first, make sure that the power is turned off. Then, locate the disposals reset button, usually near the bottom of the unit. Once you have found the button, push it and hold it for about three seconds. After a few seconds have passed, turn on the power and run some water down the drain to see if the disposals is working properly. If it is, then you’re all done! However, if the disposals still isn’t working, you may need to call a professional plumber in Seattle for help.
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Need A Professional Plumber?​

Is The Bottom Of Your Garbage Disposal Leaking?

If you notice that your garbage disposal is leaking from the bottom, it is important to take action right away. While a small leak might not seem like a big deal, it can actually cause a lot of damage to your sink and cabinets. If left unchecked, a leaking garbage disposal can even lead to mold and mildew growth. The best way to deal with a leaking garbage disposal is to call a professional. A Seattle plumber will be able to quickly diagnose the problem and determine the best course of action. In most cases, the best solution is to simply replace the disposal. However, if the leak is caused by a more serious issue, such as a cracked drain pipe, the plumber will be able to make the necessary repairs. 

Are Your Blades Dull?

Over time, the blades in your garbage disposal will become dull from use. When this happens, the disposal won’t be as effective at grinding up food waste. You might notice that it takes longer for the disposal to grind up waste or that it doesn’t grind up waste as finely. If you find that your garbage disposal blades are dull, you can try to sharpen them with a steel wool pad or a sharpening stone. However, if the blades are severely damaged or if they’ve become too misshapen to sharpen effectively, then you’ll need to replace them. You can do this by removing the old blades and installing new ones in their place. With fresh blades, your garbage disposal will be able to grind up food waste more effectively.

Contact Wezee’s Plumbing Today

At Wezee’s Plumbing, we understand that your plumbing is a critical part of your home. That’s why we offer comprehensive maintenance services to keep your pipes and fixtures in peak condition. Our experienced technicians will inspect your entire system, identify any potential problems, and make any necessary repairs. We’ll also provide you with advice on how to avoid future issues. Whether you’re dealing with a slow drain or a leaky faucet, we can help. Contact Wezee’s Plumbing today for all your maintenance needs.