Quick Answer:
If the disposal locks up after you emptied a pot or colander, turn the unit off at the breaker and clear any visible bits with pliers. After the jam is cleared, flush with plenty of hot water (after clearing the jam) and inspect for starchy buildup around the grind ring to prevent re-clogging.
Why This Happens
Starchy foods like noodles and rice can soften and stick together when they cool. Small pieces can lodge between the grind ring and the impeller, turning into a pasty mass that stops rotation. Grease or oil from sauce can worsen the problem by binding bits together and coating the ring and blades.
Step-by-Step What to Do
1. Cut the power
Switch the disposal off at the wall, then turn the breaker off for that circuit. If the unit is plugged into an outlet under the sink, unplug it. Never work on the disposal while power is available.
2. Look inside safely
Use a flashlight and long-handled pliers or tongs to remove any visible pasta pieces or utensils. Do not put your hand into the chamber.
3. Manually free the impeller
Many disposals have a hex recess on the bottom for a wrench. Insert the proper hex key and rotate back and forth to free a stuck impeller. If your model doesn’t have this, follow the manufacturer’s manual for manual freeing instructions.
4. Reset and test briefly
After clearing jammed debris, press the reset button (usually on the bottom) and restore power. Run cold water and turn the disposal on briefly to test. If it hums without turning, stop and power down again.
5. Flush and inspect
Once the unit runs, flush with plenty of hot water (after clearing the jam). Let the hot water run for 30–60 seconds while the disposal runs to wash away starch. Then inspect for starchy buildup around the grind ring; use a small brush to scrub residue away while power is off.
What Not to Do
- Do not pour oils or pasta grease into the disposal; it can create a sticky bind when cooled.
- Do not put your hand or bare fingers into the grinding chamber.
- Do not use chemical drain cleaners in a garbage disposal—many are corrosive and can damage components.
When to Call a Professional
Call a plumber or appliance technician if you have any of the following:
- The unit hums but won’t free up—this may indicate a seized motor or internal damage, described in issues like Disposal blades won’t rotate.
- Persistent leaks, burning smells, or repeated jams after you clear debris and flush.
- Recurring problems in cold weather or after winter shut-downs—similar to Disposal jams after winterization.
Safety Notes
- Always shut off power at the breaker before reaching into the disposal or inserting tools.
- Use pliers or tongs, not hands, to remove debris. Wear work gloves when handling sharp bits outside the power-off chamber.
- Do not run the disposal without a steady flow of water; water helps carry particles through the drain.
Common Homeowner Questions
- Will running hot water clear the jam? – Yes. After freeing the jam, a steady flow of hot water will help rinse away starchy residue.
- Can I use a drain snake on a disposal jam? – Not usually; a snake can damage the disposal internals. Remove debris by hand tools with power off.
- How can I avoid this happening again? – Keep large pasta and clumps out of the drain, run water while grinding, and flush with hot water after use.