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Kitchen & Bath · Free DIY Guide

How to Unjam a Garbage Disposal

  • Time: 15 min
  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Steps: 5

A humming disposal is usually jammed, not broken. Never put your hand inside, and always cut the power first.

Tools & materials

  • 1/4-inch Allen wrench (often included with the unit)
  • Flashlight
  • Tongs or pliers
  • Bucket

Step by step

  1. Step 1

    Turn the disposal switch off and unplug it under the sink (or turn off its breaker).

  2. Step 2

    Shine a flashlight into the drain and remove any visible objects with tongs or pliers. Never use your hand.

  3. Step 3

    Insert the Allen wrench into the hex socket on the bottom center of the unit and work it back and forth until it turns a full circle freely.

  4. Step 4

    Wait a few minutes for the motor to cool, then press the red reset button on the bottom of the unit.

  5. Step 5

    Restore power, run cold water and turn the disposal on to test it.

When to stop and call ProFix

If you see any of these, stop and call us:

  • It doesn't hum or do anything after the reset
  • It leaks from the bottom of the unit (internal seal failure)
  • The breaker trips every time it runs
  • It still jams after clearing it

Not in the mood to DIY? A ProFix pro can handle it for you in Chicago Metro and Dallas–Fort Worth, with a written price before work starts.

Related guides

These guides are general information for simple repairs. You're responsible for your own safety and for following local codes and your lease or HOA rules. When in doubt, stop and call a licensed professional. All DIY guides

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