Quick Answer:
If a newly installed garbage disposal jams during normal use, stop using it and cut power. With the power off, use the wrench in the bottom hex to free the flywheel, remove any trapped debris from under the splash guard, then restore power and press the reset button. Run cold water and feed only small, soft scraps until it runs smoothly. If it still hums, smells burned, or jams again under normal loads, call a service technician.
Why This Happens
- New installs can trap small packaging pieces, gaskets, or plumbing debris that block the impellers.
- Fibrous or stringy food and small bones are common culprits; they wrap around the impellers or wedge under the splash guard.
- If the unit wasn’t cleared fully before first use the flywheel can lock up, creating a humming motor or a sudden stop during normal loads.
- Related installation issues can create other symptoms in the sink or appliances, such as a dishwasher backing up or different water behavior — see Dishwasher backs up after disposal install.
Step-by-Step What to Do
1) Cut power first
Turn the disposal off at the wall switch and, for safety, switch off the breaker or unplug the unit. Never try to free a jam while the disposal has power.
2) Use the bottom hex to free the flywheel
Locate the small hex socket under the center of the disposal body. Insert the hex wrench that came with the unit (or a compatible Allen wrench). Turn it back and forth to free the flywheel — you should feel resistance and then the wheel will move. Work slowly until the impellers rotate freely.
3) Confirm the unit is empty and check the splash guard
With power still off, remove the splash guard or look into the mouth of the sink with a flashlight. Use tongs or pliers to remove trapped bits. Fibrous scraps often get trapped at the rim of the splash guard or wrapped around the impellers; clear these completely.
4) Restore power and press reset
After you confirm there are no obstructions, restore power. Press the reset button on the bottom or side of the disposal (usually red). If the motor starts normally and runs smoothly, keep cold water running for 15–30 seconds while you grind a small amount of soft waste to flush the chamber.
5) Test carefully and avoid fibrous scraps
Run cold water and feed only soft, small scraps. Do not put fibrous items (onion skins, celery, corn husks), long strings, or bones into the disposal until you’re sure it runs smoothly under normal loads.
6) Repeat checks if it doesn’t clear
If the flywheel won’t free, the unit continues to hum, or it trips the reset button repeatedly, stop and call a professional — continuing to force it risks motor damage.
What Not to Do
- Don’t force fibrous foods or bones through a new jam—clear it properly first.
- Don’t reach into the disposal with your bare hand while power is connected.
- Don’t use chemical drain cleaners in the disposal; they can damage the unit and plumbing.
- Don’t run the disposal without a steady stream of cold water.
- If it jams repeatedly under normal loads, don’t keep trying to force it yourself—service may be needed.
When to Call a Professional
- If you cannot free the flywheel from the bottom hex or the wrench won’t turn.
- If the motor hums but won’t start, trips the reset, or emits a burning odor.
- If the unit leaks, or repeated jams occur under normal, reasonable use.
- If you notice other plumbing changes after installation, such as altered flow or pressure, consult a pro — especially when you see issues like Water pressure changed after disposal install.
Safety Notes
- Always cut power at the switch and breaker before inserting tools or your hand into the disposal.
- Use tongs or needle-nose pliers to remove debris; gloves add protection but don’t rely on them to prevent pinch injuries.
- Only use the hex wrench in the designated bottom socket; never use screwdrivers or improvised tools that can slip.
- After clearing, restore power only to press the reset button and test briefly with cold water running.
Common Homeowner Questions
- Will pressing reset fix every jam? No — reset only restarts the motor after a cleared jam; physical obstructions must be removed first.
- Can I use hot water to clear a jam? Use cold water while running the disposal; hot water can soften grease and make clogs worse.
- How long should I run water after it’s cleared? Run cold water for at least 15–30 seconds while and after the disposal runs to flush the chamber.