The Truth Behind Kitchen Myths

You’ve heard that too many cooks in the kitchen spoil the soup? Well, the same can be said for myths in the kitchen. Check out this dash of advice debunking some kitchen myths.

Myth: Dishwashers Are Less Efficient Than Hand Washing Your Dishes

Fact: According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a standard-sized ENERGY STAR® certified dishwasher can save you an average of 3,870 gallons of water over its lifetime. Most good dishwashers don’t even require you to rinse dishes before loading them in the dishwasher.

Here are some tips to make sure you realize that saving:

• Scape off food, but don’t rinse dishware. 
• Don’t block the arm or other moving parts.
• Always run full loads.
• Avoid overloading your dishwasher to ensure all dishes get cleaned.
• Switch to eco-mode to reduce water and energy.
• Use the air-dry setting.
• Add a rinse aid to help dishes dry quicker and prevent spotting.

Myth: Preheating Your Oven Wastes Energy

Fact: Newer ovens reach the desired temperatures much quicker than older models. Many dishes, especially baked goods, require precise temperatures at the start of their baking time, so don’t put them in before your oven reaches the set temperature.

Myth: Appliances Only Use Energy When They Are Plugged In

Fact: Phantom power use is the draw of electricity from appliances plugged in but not turned on.

While it isn’t smart to unplug major appliances when not in use, it is easy to reduce phantom power use by unplugging smaller kitchen appliances like coffee makers, can openers, air fryers, and blenders.

Myth: Your Garbage Disposal Can Handle Anything

Fact: Garbage disposals are designed to grind scraps of food that can safely pass through plumbing. That said, several food items can really bring your disposal to a grinding halt:

• Grease
• Corn husks
• Fibrous vegetables and peels
• Large quantities of starchy food
• Coffee grounds
• Large amounts of eggshells

Myth: If Your Refrigerator Feels Cold, It Must Be Working Properly

Fact: According to the National Grocers Association, your refrigerator must be at or below 40 degrees to ensure your food is stored safely.

Check your appliance’s thermostat to ensure it’s below 40 degrees. This will help slow the growth of bacteria in your food.

Myth: Ice Doesn’t Go Bad

Fact: Your ice maker needs to be cleaned out about every four to six months.

You should also change the filter in your refrigerator when the indicator suggests. The filter helps to remove impurities from the water, like sediment, that will affect the quality and taste of your ice.

Inspect that water line and wipe down the inside of your ice maker to prevent mold and dirt buildup.

Request Kitchen Plumbing Services From Service Today

Debunking kitchen myths can save you money and ensure the food you are cooking there is safe to eat! At Service Today, it’s no myth that our professionals can help keep your plumbing pipes and appliances running smoothly.

If you’re looking for kitchen plumbing services, our plumbers have the skills to make it right…right now! We can:

• Fix a clogged kitchen sink
• Test your water quality and install a water treatment system
• Install or repair an ice maker line
• Repair your water line to resolve inconsistent water pressure
• And more

Call Service Today to book kitchen plumbing services in Maryland, Delaware, or Pennsylvania.