What to Do When Your Garbage Disposal Stops Working

Quick, safe checks

Always keep your hand out of the disposal. Try these first:

• If it’s dead, press the reset button on the bottom
• Check the breaker for the disposal circuit
• If it hums, it’s likely jammed — turn it off first
• Use the hex/Allen wrench slot underneath to free the jam

When to call a plumber

If resetting and clearing a jam don’t help, the motor or switch may have failed, or it may be leaking from the body. At that point a plumber can repair it — or install an affordable replacement the same visit.

Prevent future problems

Keep your disposal healthy by avoiding grease, fibrous foods, bones, and starchy peels, and running cold water while it works.