How to Unclog a Garbage Disposal (Jammed)
NEVER insert your hand into a garbage disposal, even when turned off and unplugged. Blades are sharp and the unit could activate unexpectedly. Use tongs or pliers only.
What You'll Need
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Step-by-Step Method
Make sure the disposal switch is OFF. For extra safety, turn off the circuit breaker for the disposal.
Most disposals have a hex socket on the bottom center. Insert a 1/4 inch Allen key and turn back and forth to manually rotate the impeller plate and free the jam.
Shine a flashlight into the disposal. Use tongs or pliers to remove whatever caused the jam. Common culprits: bones, fruit pits, utensils, glass.
Press the red reset button on the bottom of the disposal unit. Turn the power back on. Run cold water. Turn on the disposal. It should run freely.
- NEVER put your hand inside the disposal
- Do not use chemical drain cleaners in a disposal
- Do not try to run a jammed disposal repeatedly (burns out the motor)
- Keep the hex wrench taped to the disposal unit under the sink so you always know where it is.
- Avoid putting these items in the disposal: bones, fruit pits, corn husks, celery, coffee grounds in large amounts, grease, and pasta (expands).
- If the disposal hums but does not spin, it is jammed (use hex wrench). If it makes no sound at all, check the reset button and circuit breaker.
Frequently Asked Questions
Humming means the motor is running but the impeller is stuck. Turn off immediately (running a jammed motor overheats it). Use the hex wrench from underneath to manually free the impeller. Then remove the obstruction with tongs.
Sources & Methodology
Garbage disposal unjamming method using the manual rotation hex socket is the standard troubleshooting procedure per InSinkErator and Waste King manufacturer guidelines.
Last reviewed: March 20, 2026