Jam or clog?
A jam means the grinding plate cannot turn. You hear a hum, or nothing at all if the motor's overload switch has tripped. A clog means the unit spins but the water does not leave, because the trap or the line beyond it is blocked.
The two often travel together. Fibrous peels, bones or a dropped utensil can stop the plate, and the same heavy load of ground food can settle in the trap. Freeing the plate will not clear a packed drain, so test the drain after the unit runs again.
Freeing a jammed disposal
Cut the power
Switch off at the wall and unplug or turn off the breaker.
Look with a flashlight
Remove visible objects with tongs. Do not reach in.
Turn the plate by hand from below
Many units have a hex socket in the center of the bottom. A hex wrench that fits it lets you rock the plate back and forth until it moves freely.
Press the reset button
The small button on the bottom resets the overload switch. Wait a few minutes for the motor to cool first.
Restore power and test
Run cold water, then the disposal. If it hums again, switch it off and call a plumber.
What goes in, what stays out
| Item | Disposal | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Small soft scraps | Usually fine with plenty of water | Grinds and flushes easily |
| Grease and oil | Keep out | Coats the trap and branch line |
| Coffee grounds | Keep out | Settles like sand in the trap |
| Eggshells | Keep out | Grit packs the trap |
| Celery, corn husks, onion skins | Keep out | Fibers wrap the plate |
| Rice, pasta, potato peels | Keep out or use sparingly | Starch swells into a paste |
When to call
- IfThe plate turns but the sink still fillsThenThe trap or branch line is clogged; open the trap or call for a cable.
- IfThe unit hums after a reset and freeing the plateThenThe motor or a lodged object may need a plumber.
- IfWater drips from the bottom of the unitThenThe housing may be cracked; disposals generally get replaced, not repaired.
- IfThe breaker trips repeatedlyThenStop using it and have the unit and circuit checked.
Questions for the plumber
- Is the unit repairable, or is replacement the sensible option?
- Is the disposal outlet lined up well with the trap, or is it causing food to collect?
- If I replace it, does the dishwasher connection need to change?
Common questions
Can I use a chemical drain opener in a disposal?
It is a bad idea. The chemicals can damage seals and parts, and they sit in the chamber for whoever works on it next. Use the reset and hex socket, then call if the drain stays blocked.
Does ice or citrus clean a disposal?
Ice can knock loose some residue and citrus peel can freshen the smell, but neither clears a clog in the trap or line.
Should a leaking disposal be repaired?
A leak at a hose or flange connection can often be fixed. A leak from the body usually means the unit needs replacing. A plumber can tell which.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.