Why Your Garbage Disposal Isn’t Working and How to Fix It

Garbage disposals are a convenient kitchen tool—until they stop working. A jammed, humming, or completely silent unit can disrupt your daily routine and lead to plumbing problems if left unaddressed. In this Redfin article, we’ll walk you through the most common reasons your garbage disposal might not be working, how to troubleshoot it, and when it’s time to call a pro—whether you’re in a house in Chicago, IL or a home in Phoenix, AZ.

1. Check the power source

Sometimes, the solution is as simple as restoring power.

• Start with the reset button: Located on the bottom of the unit, this red or black button resets the disposal. If it’s popped out, press it back in.
• Look under the sink: Make sure the unit is plugged in. It may have come loose.
• Test the outlet: Plug in another appliance to check if the outlet is working. If not, try resetting your circuit breaker.

Pros tips for checking the power source

Always start with a reset
“If your garbage disposal suddenly stops, check for a reset button on the bottom—it often trips during jams,” says Flow City Plumbing. “Always unplug the unit before inspecting, and avoid harsh chemical cleaners. We recommend flushing monthly with baking soda and vinegar to keep odors away. Strange noises or persistent leaks usually mean it’s time for a replacement.”

Check the plug and wall switch
“A non-working disposal might just need a quick reset,” says Sargents Maytag. “Make sure it’s plugged in, hit the reset button, and inspect for jams using a flashlight and tools—never your hands. If it still won’t turn on, the wall switch or wiring could be the issue.”

Don’t ignore electrical overloads
“A sudden shutdown is often due to an electrical overload, and the reset button can solve it fast,” explains A. Fagundes Plumbing & Heating. “Just remember to cut power first. For lasting performance, avoid fibrous waste and clean the disposal with a mix of ice cubes and citrus peels each month. These small steps can prevent costly issues.”

2. Listen for humming or silence

The sound your garbage disposal makes offers a clue.

• Humming noise: This usually means the disposal is getting power, but the blades may be jammed by something like a piece of silverware or fibrous food. Running the unit in this state can burn out the motor, so shut it off right away and move to clearing the jam.
• No noise at all: The unit might not be receiving power at all. Make sure it’s securely plugged in, press the red reset button on the bottom of the unit, and check your circuit breaker for a tripped switch. If it still won’t respond, there may be an issue with the wall switch or internal wiring.

3. Clear a jam safely

Never use your hands inside the disposal—use the right tools instead.

• Turn off the power: Unplug the unit or switch off the circuit breaker before doing anything.
• Use an Allen wrench: Insert it into the hex hole under the unit and manually turn it to free stuck impellers.
• Try tongs or pliers: Remove visible blockages using long tools—not your hands.

Pro tips for fixing a jammed garbage disposal

Avoid jams with safe practices
“One of the most common reasons a garbage disposal fails is a jam or overload,” says Alliance Appliance Repair. “If the unit stops working, hit the reset button first—but always cut the power before checking for blockages. Never put fibrous foods down the drain, and run cold water to flush everything through. Good habits can seriously extend your disposal’s lifespan.”

Inspect for debris and never treat your disposal like a trash can
“Start by figuring out if the disposal is jammed or just lost power,” explains Bill Helmken Plumbing. “If it’s jammed, turn off the power and inspect inside for debris—then rotate the blades with the right tool. And never treat your disposal like a trash can—avoid grease and tough waste.”

Try a hex wrench to free the jam
“If your garbage disposal jams, try using the included hex wrench to free it up from below,” advises Sam’s Appliance Repair. “Always make sure the unit is powered off before reaching inside. If it keeps tripping or grinding loudly, a replacement may be needed. For maintenance, flush it with cold water and toss in ice cubes with lemon peels to clean and deodorize.”

4. Inspect for clogs and buildup

If the unit runs but doesn’t drain, the clog may be deeper in the drainpipe.

• Use a plunger: A sink plunger (not the toilet kind) can help push food particles through if the blockage is just beyond the disposal. Make sure to cover the other drain (if it’s a double sink) for better suction.
• Clean the trap: Place a bucket under the P-trap (the curved pipe beneath the sink), then unscrew it carefully to rinse out any trapped food or sludge. This is a common place for clogs to form.
• Avoid chemical cleaners: Harsh drain cleaners can damage the disposal’s internal components. Instead, pour in a mix of baking soda and vinegar, let it fizz for a few minutes, and flush with hot water.

5. Know what not to put in a garbage disposal

Prevention is key. Avoid these common clog-causing items:

• Grease and oils: They solidify in pipes and cause buildup.
• Fibrous vegetables: Celery, corn husks, and artichoke leaves can wrap around the blades.
• Coffee grounds: They clump together and can clog drains.
• Eggshells: The membrane layer can get caught in the disposal and cause jams.
• Starchy foods: Pasta, rice, and bread expand with water and create a gluey mess.

6. Call a professional if needed

If you’ve tried everything and it’s still not working—or you’re uncomfortable doing repairs—it’s smart to call a licensed plumber or electrician.

Pinpoint the issue before calling for help
“Many disposal issues come down to something simple, like a stuck object or rust buildup,” says LocalPRO Appliance Repair. “Always disconnect power before troubleshooting and use tongs instead of your hands. If the unit hums or won’t reset, try using a hex key underneath. For leaks or aging disposals, replacement is often easier than repair.”

7. Replace the unit

If the disposal is still unresponsive or frequently needs resetting, it may be time for a replacement.

• Check for leaks: Water around the base could indicate a cracked unit or bad seal,both of which often require replacing the unit. 
• Older than 10 years? Many disposals last 8–15 years. If yours is aging and acting up, consider replacing it with a newer, more efficient model.

Plumber-approved tips for knowing when to repair or replace

Understand the full lifecycle of a disposal
“A dead disposal might be overheating, jammed, or have a burned-out motor,” says Cocoon Home Services. “Let it cool for 15 minutes, then press the reset. If it’s still not working, it could be time for a new unit—especially if it’s leaking or corroded. Run cold water during use, avoid overloading, and always break down large scraps beforehand.”

Know when to repair or replace
“Most disposal problems come from jams or power failures,” says Plumbers Elite. “Reset the unit, check the breaker, and use a hex key to free the blades if needed. If it leaks or smokes, or it’s over a decade old, replacement is usually best. Always cut the power before any fix, and clean monthly using ice and citrus for better performance.”

Frequently asked questions about garbage disposal repairs 

1. Is it safe to fix a garbage disposal myself?

Yes, if the issue is minor like a reset or jam you can clear safely with tools. Always unplug it first.

2. Why is my garbage disposal humming but not spinning?

This usually means it’s jammed. Try using an Allen wrench on the bottom of the unit to free the blades.

3. What should I never put down a garbage disposal?

Avoid grease, coffee grounds, fibrous vegetables, and starchy foods like pasta or rice.

4. When should I call a professional?

If the disposal is leaking, unresponsive, or more than 10 years old, it’s best to call a licensed plumber.

5. Can I use drain cleaner in a garbage disposal?

No—chemical cleaners can damage the unit. Use a vinegar and baking soda mix instead.

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