Quick Answer:
If you heard a crunch and the unit won’t spin, first turn the disposal’s power off, look down the throat for any hard scraps, and remove them with long tongs — do not reach in with your hand. If the flywheel still won’t turn after removing the object, try the manual crank (Allen wrench) and the reset button. Call a professional if the motor smells burnt, the unit stays locked, or you can’t safely remove the item.
Why This Happens
Garbage disposals are built to handle soft food waste. Hard scraps such as bones, fruit pits, silverware, or dense shells can wedge between the impellers and the grinding ring. When that happens the motor can stall or become locked, and the blades won’t spin. Sometimes the motor will try to run and make a humming or grinding noise, other times it simply won’t turn at all.
Step-by-Step What to Do
1. Immediately shut off power
- Flip the wall switch off and then turn off the circuit breaker for the disposal to be sure power is removed.
- If the unit has a plug under the sink, unplug it after switching off the breaker to be extra safe.
2. Look down the throat for the lodged item
- Use a flashlight and look into the drain (the throat). You’re checking for visible hard items that caused the crunch.
- Keep the power off while you inspect.
3. Remove the object with tongs or pliers
- Use long-handled tongs or needle-nose pliers to reach in and pull out the item. Work slowly so you don’t push it farther or damage the impellers.
- Do not use metal tools if you risk contacting wiring—plastic-handled tools are safer for simple retrievals.
4. Try a manual turn of the flywheel
- Under many disposals there is a hex recess in the motor shaft. With the power OFF, insert the correct-size Allen wrench and gently turn back and forth to free the flywheel.
- Only do this if you can access the recess safely and the unit’s manual indicates it is appropriate.
5. Reset and test
- After removing the obstruction and manually freeing the blades, restore power and press the disposal’s red reset button (usually on the bottom). Run cold water and try the switch briefly.
- If it runs smoothly, let it run with water for a few seconds to clear small debris.
6. If it still won’t spin
- Turn the power off again and re-inspect. If you can’t free the jam with the manual crank or remove the item safely, stop and call a pro.
What Not to Do
- Do not reach into the disposal with your hand, even if the power is off.
- Don’t turn the power back on to try to force the jam out while anything is in the throat.
- Avoid pouring chemical drain cleaners into a disposal—these can damage components and create hazards.
- Don’t use excessive force or hit the unit with tools; this risks breaking the mounting or internal parts.
When to Call a Professional
Call a licensed plumber or appliance technician if:
- The motor smells burnt, overheats, or has visible electrical damage.
- You can’t free the jam with safe manual methods or the unit remains locked.
- You’re uncomfortable working under the sink or accessing the hex recess.
If the unit won’t respond after basic checks, see Disposal won’t turn on. If you heard a humming sound before it stopped, also consider reading about Disposal hums then shuts off for related causes.
Safety Notes
- Always cut power at the switch and the breaker before putting tools near the disposal.
- Wear safety glasses and long-handled tongs. Keep loose clothing and jewelry clear of the sink area.
- Work with good light and keep children and pets away while you inspect or work on the unit.
- If you are unsure about electrical connections, leave them to a professional.
Common Homeowner Questions
- Q: Can I use a broom handle to push the jam out?
A: No. Pushing with a broom can damage impellers or push the item deeper; use tongs or pliers instead. - Q: Is it safe to reset the disposal right after a jam?
A: Only after you’ve removed the obstruction and manually checked that the flywheel moves freely; then restore power and press reset. - Q: Will running hot water help free a hard object?
A: No. Hot water won’t free a lodged hard item and can make cleanup messier; keep cold water running while testing the unit after the jam is cleared.