Repair a Jammed Garbage Disposal

Learn how to safely diagnose and fix a jammed garbage disposal to restore proper function.

Safety Warning

NEVER put your hand in the disposal. Always disconnect power before attempting repairs. Use proper tools and lighting.

Tools & Materials

  • Allen wrench
  • Pliers
  • Flashlight
  • Tongs
  • Broom handle
  • Work gloves
  • Safety glasses
  • Bucket
  • Reset tool
  • Cleaning supplies

Common Causes

Foreign Objects

  • Utensils
  • Bottle caps
  • Hard materials
  • Glass items

Food Items

  • Fibrous foods
  • Hard seeds
  • Bones
  • Shell waste

Build-up

  • Food waste
  • Grease
  • Scale
  • Debris

Repair Steps

Safety First

  • Turn off power
  • Unplug unit
  • Clear workspace
  • Gather tools

Inspection

  • Use flashlight
  • Look for objects
  • Check blades
  • Note sounds

Manual Turn

  • Locate hex hole
  • Insert wrench
  • Turn both ways
  • Feel resistance

Testing

  • Clear debris
  • Reset button
  • Restore power
  • Test operation

Clearing Methods

Manual Tools

  • Pliers use
  • Tong removal
  • Safe reaching
  • Careful extraction

Natural Solutions

  • Ice cleaning
  • Salt treatment
  • Citrus fresh
  • Baking soda

Prevention Tips

  • Run cold water
  • Avoid hard items
  • Regular cleaning
  • Proper disposal
  • Size control
  • Watch foreign objects
  • Monthly maintenance
  • Quick response

Cleaning Guide

Regular Cleaning

  • Ice method
  • Salt scrub
  • Cold water
  • Deodorize

Deep Cleaning

  • Disconnect power
  • Remove debris
  • Clean blades
  • Sanitize

Common Issues

Won't Turn

Check power. Try reset. Manual turn. Clear jam.

Strange Sounds

Locate objects. Remove items. Check blades. Test operation.

Slow Drain

Clear blockage. Clean unit. Check plumbing. Test flow.

Safety Practices

Electrical Safety

  • Power off first
  • Verify disconnect
  • Use GFCI
  • Avoid water contact

Physical Safety

  • No hand entry
  • Use tools only
  • Proper lighting
  • Clear workspace

Proper Usage

Safe Items

  • Soft foods
  • Small pieces
  • Cold water
  • Regular cleaning

Avoid Items

  • Hard materials
  • Fibrous foods
  • Large amounts
  • Hot grease

Video Tutorial

Watch our detailed guide on safely unjamming and maintaining your garbage disposal.