How To Fix A Insinkerator — Garbage Disposal

The most common ailment afflicting an InSinkErator is a jam, often signaled by a low humming sound when the unit is switched on. This noise indicates that the motor is trying to turn the flywheel, but an obstruction—such as a bone, a piece of silverware, or a fruit pit—has locked the grinding mechanism in place. Continuing to run the motor in this state will cause it to overheat and burn out. To fix this, locate the hexagonal hole in the center of the underside of the disposal unit. Using the self-service wrenchette (a small Allen wrench usually provided with the disposal at purchase), insert it into the hole and manually crank it back and forth. This motion dislodges the impeller and frees the jam. Once the flywheel moves smoothly, reach into the disposal chamber with tongs or pliers—never hands—to remove the offending object. Finally, press the red "Reset" button on the bottom of the unit to re-engage the thermal overload switch before restoring power.