InSinkErator Kitchen Appliances Garbage Disposal Humming but Not Working: How to Fix It Yourself
A garbage disposal that hums but does not spin has something jammed between the grinding plate and the shredder ring. This is the single most common disposal problem and is almost always fixable in under 10 minutes using the Allen wrench that came with your unit. Do not keep running it while it hums — you will burn out the motor.
⚠️ Safety First
- NEVER put your hand inside the garbage disposal — even when it is off.
- Always turn off the wall switch AND unplug the unit or flip the circuit breaker before working on it.
- Use tongs or pliers to remove objects — never your fingers.
Parts You May Need
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Step-by-Step Repair
- 1
Turn off the disposal immediately
If the disposal is humming, turn off the wall switch right away. The motor is trying to spin but cannot, and running it in this state will burn it out. Flip the circuit breaker for the disposal as an extra precaution.
- 2
Use the Allen wrench from the bottom
Look at the very bottom center of the disposal unit under the sink. You will see a hex-shaped hole. Insert a 1/4-inch Allen wrench (most InSinkErator disposals come with one). Turn it back and forth several times. This manually rotates the grinding plate and dislodges whatever is stuck. You should feel it break free.
- 3
Remove the jammed object from above
With the power still off, shine a flashlight down into the disposal from the sink opening. Look for the object that was causing the jam — it is usually a bone fragment, fruit pit, piece of glass, or utensil. Use tongs or pliers to pull it out. Never use your hand.
- 4
Press the reset button
On the bottom of the disposal unit, you will see a small red or black button. This is the thermal overload reset. If the motor overheated from the jam, this button will have popped out. Press it back in until it clicks. If it will not stay in, wait 10 minutes for the motor to cool and try again.
- 5
Test the disposal
Turn the circuit breaker back on. Run cold water into the disposal. Flip the wall switch on. The disposal should spin freely and sound normal. Run water for 30 seconds to flush any remaining debris. If it still just hums, repeat the Allen wrench step — sometimes a jam needs a few attempts to fully clear.
If That Didn't Work
- Broken flywheel or shredder plate
- Seized motor bearings (usually on older units)
- Faulty wall switch or wiring
- Burned-out motor from prolonged jamming
When to Call a Professional
If the Allen wrench trick does not free the jam, or if the motor makes no sound at all, the motor may be burned out. Replacing a garbage disposal is a straightforward plumbing job that costs $150–$300 for a plumber including a new unit. If you are handy, you can do it yourself for just the cost of the new disposal.
Related Repairs
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute professional repair advice. All repairs are performed at your own risk. RepairItFree.com is not liable for any personal injury, property damage, device damage, voided warranties, or other losses resulting from the use of this information.
If you are unsure about any step — especially anything involving electricity, gas, water, or refrigerant — stop and consult a qualified professional. Your safety is more important than saving money.
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