Clearing Garbage Disposal Jams
Updated February 24, 2026
The disposal hums but nothing happens -- that's a jam. Something is stuck between the impellers and the grind ring, and the motor can't turn. Don't panic, don't call a plumber yet, and definitely don't stick your hand in there. Most jams clear in under 5 minutes with the hex wrench that came with the disposal.
Overview
The disposal hums but nothing happens -- that's a jam. Something is stuck between the impellers and the grind ring, and the motor can't turn. Don't panic, don't call a plumber yet, and definitely don't stick your hand in there. Most jams clear in under 5 minutes with the hex wrench that came with the disposal.
What to Know
How Jams Happen
The impellers -- they're not actually blades, they're blunt lugs that spin and force food against the grind ring -- get stuck when something hard or fibrous wedges between them and the ring. Common culprits: fruit pits, thick bones, corn husks, silverware that fell in, and bottle caps.
The Reset Button and Hex Wrench
- Every disposal has two unjamming tools built in.
- The reset button is on the bottom of the unit -- it's a thermal overload that trips when the motor stalls.
- The hex socket is also on the bottom center -- it lets you manually rotate the impeller plate to free whatever is stuck.
- The hex wrench (1/4 inch Allen key) usually comes taped to the side of the disposal.
When a Jam Means Something Bigger
- If the disposal jams repeatedly with normal food waste, the impellers or grind ring may be worn.
- If it hums loudly but the hex wrench turns freely, the motor coupling may be stripped.
- If it doesn't hum at all, check the reset button first, then the breaker.
Step by Step
- Turn off the disposal
Make sure the switch is off. If you're not sure which switch controls it, turn off the breaker. Never work on a disposal that could accidentally turn on.
- Use the hex wrench from below
Insert the 1/4 inch Allen wrench into the hex socket on the bottom center of the disposal. Work it back and forth to rotate the impeller plate. You'll feel resistance where the jam is -- work past it. This is the safest method because your hand never goes near the opening.
- If no hex socket, use a broom handle from above
Some older models lack the hex socket. Insert a wooden broom handle into the disposal from the top and push against the impellers to rock them back and forth. Never use metal tools from above -- they can damage the grind ring.
- Remove the obstruction
Once the impellers move freely, use tongs or pliers to fish out whatever caused the jam. Never use your fingers -- even with the power off, the impellers have sharp edges.
- Reset and test
Press the reset button on the bottom of the disposal. Turn the water on, then flip the switch. The disposal should run freely. If it still hums without spinning, the jam isn't fully cleared -- repeat the hex wrench step.
Pro Tips
- Keep the hex wrench taped to the disposal or inside the cabinet door. You'll need it eventually.
- If you lost the wrench, any 1/4 inch Allen key works. Buy one and keep it under the sink.
- After clearing a jam, run ice cubes through to clean off any debris knocked loose during the unjamming.
- A disposal that trips the reset button repeatedly may be overloaded. Feed less food at a time.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Sticking your hand into the disposal -- even with the power off, impeller edges are sharp.
- Hitting the reset button over and over without clearing the jam first. The motor overheats.
- Pouring chemical drain cleaner into a jammed disposal.
- Assuming a non-responsive disposal is dead -- check the reset button and breaker before buying a new one.
When to Call a Pro
If the hex wrench moves freely but the disposal won't spin under power, the motor or motor coupling is likely failed. If the disposal is leaking from the bottom, the internal seal is gone. Both mean replacement, not repair.
Bottom Line
Hex wrench from below, work it back and forth, remove the obstruction with tongs, press reset. Five minutes, no tools you don't already have, no plumber needed. Keep that Allen key under the sink.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are expert tips for clearing garbage disposal jams?
Keep the hex wrench taped to the disposal or inside the cabinet door. You'll need it eventually. If you lost the wrench, any 1/4 inch Allen key works. Buy one and keep it under the sink. After clearing a jam, run ice cubes through to clean off any debris knocked loose during the unjamming. A disposal that trips the reset button repeatedly may be overloaded. Feed less food at a time.
What mistakes should I avoid with clearing garbage disposal jams?
Sticking your hand into the disposal -- even with the power off, impeller edges are sharp. Hitting the reset button over and over without clearing the jam first. The motor overheats. Pouring chemical drain cleaner into a jammed disposal. Assuming a non-responsive disposal is dead -- check the reset button and breaker before buying a new one.
When should I call a professional for clearing garbage disposal jams?
If the hex wrench moves freely but the disposal won't spin under power, the motor or motor coupling is likely failed. If the disposal is leaking from the bottom, the internal seal is gone. Both mean replacement, not repair.
What is the bottom line on clearing garbage disposal jams?
Hex wrench from below, work it back and forth, remove the obstruction with tongs, press reset. Five minutes, no tools you don't already have, no plumber needed. Keep that Allen key under the sink.
When should I call a professional for clearing garbage disposal jams?
If the hex wrench moves freely but the disposal won't spin under power, the motor or motor coupling is likely failed. If the disposal is leaking from the bottom, the internal seal is gone. Both mean replacement, not repair.
What's the bottom line on clearing garbage disposal jams?
Hex wrench from below, work it back and forth, remove the obstruction with tongs, press reset. Five minutes, no tools you don't already have, no plumber needed. Keep that Allen key under the sink.
How much does clearing garbage disposal jams cost?
The typical cost range is $0 DIY. Actual costs depend on your location, materials, and whether you hire a professional.
How difficult is clearing garbage disposal jams?
This task is rated Easy. It requires moderate DIY skill.