Garbage Disposal Not Working? How to Reset and Unjam It

Most garbage disposal problems are one of three things: it tripped its reset, it’s jammed, or the drain is clogged. All three are easy fixes.

Safety first: never put your hand in a disposal. Turn it off at the switch, and unplug it or turn off its breaker before working on it.

In this guide

1. It does nothing (no sound)
2. It hums but won’t spin (jammed)
3. It runs but drains slowly
4. It leaks
5. Keep it working

It does nothing (no sound)

1. Press the reset button, the small red button on the bottom of the unit. If it was tripped, it will click.
2. Check the breaker and the outlet under the sink. Some outlets are controlled by a wall switch.
3. Still dead? The motor may have failed. Most disposals are designed to be replaced as a whole unit.

It hums but won’t spin (jammed)

1. Turn it off and cut the power.
2. Find the hex socket in the center of the bottom of the unit. Insert a ¼-inch hex key (often included with the disposal and called a “disposal wrench”).
3. Work it back and forth until it turns freely in full circles.
4. Use tongs or pliers to remove whatever caused the jam from above.
5. Press the reset button, restore power, run cold water, and switch it on.

No hex socket? Use a wooden broom handle from above to turn the plate, with the power off.

It runs but drains slowly

• The clog is likely in the drain beyond the disposal. Clean the P-trap under the sink. See How to Unclog a Drain.
• Don’t use chemical drain cleaners in a disposal.

It leaks

• From the top: the sink flange seal may need new plumber’s putty.
• From the side hose: tighten the dishwasher or drain hose clamp.
• From the bottom of the unit: the internal seal has failed. Replace the disposal.

Keep it working

• Run cold water while it runs and for 15 seconds after.
• Avoid grease, bones, fruit pits, eggshells, coffee grounds, pasta, rice, and fibrous foods like celery and corn husks.
• To freshen it, grind a few ice cubes and a few citrus peels.