Why You Should Get A Garbage Disposal Unit
According to a study by the Environmental Protection Agency, in the year 2011 alone, Americans produced 250 million tons of trash. Of this amount, 14.5% was made up of food waste. The U.S. Department of Agriculture offers the staggering fact that America spends over a billion dollars every year just to dispose of food waste. With the installation of a garbage disposal, much of the food that is thrown out can be eliminated from landfills, leading to both environmental and economic benefits.
Food disposed of in a waste can leads to germs and odors, and may also attract insects, rodents, family pets or even wild animals, such as raccoons or squirrels. The trash must be taken out more often to avoid the smell of decaying food inside the house. This increases the amount of money spent on trash bags, and since most plastic bags are non biodegradable, this also hurts the environment.
When food decomposes in a landfill, it causes methane gases to be released into the air. Methane is one of the greenhouse gases that contributes to global warming; it traps twenty three times as much heat in the atmosphere as the same amount of carbon dioxide. According to the EPA, 34% of methane emissions comes from landfills.
Another problem with food waste occurs when trying to clean pans or dishes with food caked on them. Even with strainer plugs in the sink to catch the scraps, it is almost inevitable that little pieces are going to go down the drain. This will eventually result in a clog, and may necessitate paying a fee to a plumber to clean the lines.
A garbage disposal can solve these problems – instead of uneaten food being tossed in the trash can, it can be rinsed right down the drain with the flip of a switch. The device works by reducing most food matter into tiny bits that can safely pass through the pipes, leading to an easier and more sanitary cleanup after dinner.
In some cases, the waste water from the garbage disposal can be rerouted, and the methane gases extracted and used for energy. After this process takes place, the food particles can also be captured and turned into a natural fertilizer.
A professional should be consulted for the installation of a garbage disposal. Besides valuable advice as to which model is best for you and instructions for use, the professional will guarantee the work, and can also offer guidance for the best economic and ecologic benefits.
Are you interested in installing a garbage disposal in your Modesto home? Call the expert Modesto plumber at Knights Plumbing & Drain at 209-541-1717 and get started today!
