Before calling a plumber for a garbage disposal issue, try these quick fixes: check the under-sink reset button, look for tripped breakers, run cold water and listen for the motor hum (jammed if humming, dead if silent), and use the disposal wrench in the bottom hex socket to free a stuck flywheel. Many issues resolve in 60 seconds.

Quick troubleshooting

  • Press the red “reset” button on the bottom of the unit
  • Check the breaker in your electrical panel
  • Listen for hum (jam) vs. silence (electrical)
  • Use a disposal wrench in the bottom hex socket to free flywheel
  • Never put your hand into the disposal

If the unit still won’t run, schedule same-day service via garbage disposal service.