How to Fix a Jammed Garbage Disposal (Safely, No Plumber)

Flip the switch, and your garbage disposal just hums, or does nothing at all? It's usually jammed, and you can free it yourself in a few minutes, safely.

1. Step 1: Power Off

First, turn the disposal's switch off. For extra safety, switch off its breaker too. Never put your hand down into the disposal, even with the power off.

2. Step 2: Look, Then Use Tongs

Shine a flashlight down the drain. If you see something stuck, like a bottle cap or a utensil, pull it out with tongs or pliers.

3. Step 3: Hex Wrench Underneath

Look under the sink, at the very bottom of the disposal. There's a small six sided hole in the center. Push the hex wrench that came with it into that hole, and work it back and forth, until it turns all the way around freely. That frees the jam.