Garbage Disposal Not Working? How to Fix It

Garbage Disposal Troubleshooting Guide

Disposal Will Not Turn On (No Sound)

1. Press the reset button — it is a small red or black button on the bottom of the unit. This is a built-in circuit breaker that trips from overload.
2. Check the electrical panel — the disposal may be on a dedicated circuit that has tripped.
3. Check the wall switch — make sure the switch itself is working (test with a lamp).
4. If none of these work, the motor is likely burned out and the unit needs replacement.

Disposal Hums But Does Not Spin (Jammed)

This is the most common problem and is almost always fixable:

1. Turn off the disposal and unplug it (or turn off the breaker)
2. Look under the unit for a small hex socket hole in the center bottom
3. Insert a 1/4-inch Allen wrench (most disposals come with one)
4. Rotate back and forth until the blades move freely
5. If no hex hole, use a wooden broom handle from the top to manually rotate the impeller plate
6. Remove any visible debris with tongs or pliers (never put your hand inside)
7. Restore power and test

Disposal Drains Slowly

Slow drainage is usually a clog in the drain pipe, not the disposal itself. Run the disposal with plenty of cold water. If it still drains slowly, disconnect the drain pipe and clear the clog.

Disposal Leaks

• From the top: Mounting ring or putty needs tightening/replacement
• From the side: Drain connection loose — tighten the screws
• From the bottom: Internal seal failure — replacement needed

When to Replace

Replace your disposal if the motor is burned out, it leaks from the bottom, or it is more than 10 years old and jams frequently. A new disposal costs $150–$350 installed for a standard 1/2–3/4 HP model.