A garbage disposal that hums but won’t spin is almost always jammed — the motor has power but the flywheel is stuck on a bone, pit, or utensil. Do not keep flipping the switch, which can burn out the motor. Here is how to clear it safely, and when it needs replacing.
Clear a jam safely
- Turn the disposal switch OFF
- Use the hex wrench in the bottom center to turn the flywheel back and forth
- Remove any object with tongs — never your hand
- Press the red reset button underneath
- Turn on the water and test
Why it jams
Fibrous foods (celery, potato peels), bones, pits and utensils wedge the flywheel. When the motor overheats trying to spin, it trips the reset button and hums instead of grinding.
When to replace
If it hums with nothing jammed, leaks from the bottom, or won’t reset, the motor or seals have likely failed — usually a replacement ($250–$500 installed). We clear jams, fix leaks, and install new units.
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Service Call Fee WAIVED With Any Repair
A $79–$129 value — you pay only for the repair. Just mention this coupon when you call or book.
Get it fixed in Lawrenceville
Garbage disposal repair in LawrencevilleGarbage disposal jammedBook appliance repairRather have a pro handle it?
Our Lawrenceville technicians give you the exact price before any work — and the service call fee is waived when we do the repair.