How to Fix a Humming Garbage Disposal That Won't Turn

A humming garbage disposal that won't spin is usually jammed with debris or has a tripped reset button. Most problems can be fixed by clearing the jam and resetting the unit.

1. Kill the Power First. Switch off the garbage disposal at the wall switch and unplug it from under the sink if possible. Turn off the water completely. Never work on a disposal with power connected.
2. Find and Reset. Look under the sink for a small red or black reset button on the bottom of the disposal unit. Press it firmly until it clicks. If it pops back out immediately, there's still a jam that needs clearing.
3. Pull Out the Culprits. Shine a flashlight down the disposal opening and look for obvious objects like utensils, bones, or large food chunks. Use tongs or pliers to remove anything you can see. Never put your hand down the disposal.
4. Unjam the Mechanism. Insert a garbage disposal wrench or a 1/4-inch Allen wrench into the hex-shaped hole at the bottom center of the unit. Turn clockwise and counterclockwise several times to break free any jam. If you don't have the right wrench, use a wooden spoon handle from the top opening to gently push the blades.
5. Flush the Final Debris. Once the blades move freely, remove any loosened debris from the top with tongs. Run cold water and drop a few ice cubes down the disposal to help knock off any remaining stuck material.
6. Confirm It's Fixed. Plug the unit back in, press the reset button once more, turn on cold water, and flip the wall switch. The disposal should start normally. Let it run for 30 seconds with water flowing to ensure everything is working properly.