To fix a jammed garbage disposal that's humming or silent, you'll need to remove any obstructions or reset the motor. This guide will walk you through the process safely.
15-30 minutes
$0 - $5 (if Allen wrench is needed)
Diagnosis
If your garbage disposal makes a humming sound but doesn't grind, or if it's completely quiet, it's likely jammed. This often occurs when an object like silverware, a hard fruit pit, or an excessive amount of food waste gets lodged inside. A jammed disposal can't process waste, which might lead to blocked pipes and an unsanitary backup in your sink.
Tools Needed
- Allen wrench (usually 1/4 inch, often included with disposal)
- Pliers
- Flashlight
- Gloves (optional, but recommended)
Warnings
- ALWAYS turn off the power to the garbage disposal at the circuit breaker or wall switch before attempting any repairs. Electrocution is a serious risk.
- NEVER put your hands or fingers into the disposal chamber. Use tools to remove obstructions.
- Be cautious of sharp metal edges inside the disposal unit.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First, ensure the power to the garbage disposal is completely turned off. It's crucial to never put your hands inside the unit while the power is on or if you're unsure it's been disconnected.
- Check the bottom or side of the disposal unit for a small reset button. Press this button firmly. If it had popped out, it indicates that the unit overheated.
- Locate the hexagonal-shaped opening, typically found in the center of the disposal's underside.
- Insert the provided Allen wrench (or a similar hexagonal key) into this opening. Gently try turning the wrench back and forth. This action manually moves the grinding components to free whatever is causing the blockage.
- Remove the Allen wrench. Using pliers and a flashlight, carefully inspect the inside of the disposal from above (remember, power must still be off!) and remove any visible obstructions you find.
- Restore power to the garbage disposal by turning the switch back on.
- Run cold water into the sink and then switch on the garbage disposal. If it now operates smoothly, the jam has been cleared. If it continues to struggle, you may need to repeat steps 3 through 6 or explore other troubleshooting options.
- Should the disposal continue to hum without running, or if it repeatedly trips the circuit breaker, turn off the power again and proceed with further troubleshooting measures.
Troubleshooting
- If the disposal still hums but won't spin after trying the Allen wrench method, the motor might be struggling. Turn off power, try rotating the blades from the top with pliers again, and then try the Allen wrench.
- If the disposal is completely silent and won't reset, check your home's circuit breaker. If it's tripped, reset it. If it trips again immediately, there might be a more serious electrical issue requiring a professional.
- If the disposal trips the breaker repeatedly, even after clearing jams, there might be an internal motor issue or a wiring problem. It's time to call a qualified electrician or plumber.
Preventive Tips
- Avoid putting hard items like fruit pits, bones, silverware, or glass down the disposal.
- Grind food waste in small batches, letting the disposal clear each batch before adding more.
- Always run cold water for at least 15-30 seconds before, during, and after using the disposal to help flush food through the pipes.
Brief Summary
This guide provides step-by-step instructions to help you safely un-jam your garbage disposal. We'll cover how to identify the problem, clear obstructions, and reset the unit to restore its functionality.
Content Details
Keywords: garbage disposal, jammed disposal, disposal humming, disposal not grinding, kitchen sink, food waste
Meta Description: Learn how to easily fix a jammed garbage disposal that's humming or silent. Resolve common kitchen sink clogs and restore your disposal's function with simple steps.
Guide Confidence: High