Why Your Garbage Disposal Is Jamming and How to Fix It

• 1 - Understanding Garbage Disposal Jams
• 2 - Common Causes of Garbage Disposal Jams
• 3 - How to Fix a Jammed Garbage Disposal
• 4 - Prevention Tips for Avoiding Future Jams
• 5 - When to Call the Professionals

1. Understanding Garbage Disposal Jams

Garbage disposals are a convenient tool in every kitchen, making food waste disposal easier. However, like any appliance, they can encounter issues, and one of the most common problems is a jam. A jammed garbage disposal can be frustrating, but understanding why it happens is the first step to fixing it.

When a garbage disposal jams, it means that the motor is obstructed, preventing it from turning. The reasons for this blockage can vary, from food debris to mechanical issues. Luckily, with a little troubleshooting, most jams can be resolved quickly.

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2. Common Causes of Garbage Disposal Jams

There are several reasons why your garbage disposal might jam. Some of the most common causes include:

• Hard Objects: Items like bones, utensils, or small pieces of glass can get caught in the disposal, causing it to jam.
• Fibrous Foods: Foods like celery, corn husks, and potato peels can wrap around the blades and create blockages.
• Excessive Waste: Overloading your disposal with too much food waste can prevent the motor from functioning correctly.
• Mechanical Failure: Sometimes, internal components of the disposal, such as the motor or flywheel, may fail, causing a jam.
• Inadequate Water Flow: Lack of water can cause food particles to stick to the blades, resulting in a jam.

3. How to Fix a Jammed Garbage Disposal

Fixing a jammed garbage disposal is often easier than you might think. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you resolve the issue:

1. Turn Off the Power: Before you do anything, make sure the garbage disposal is turned off. You can unplug it or turn off the circuit breaker to ensure safety.
2. Use a Hex Wrench: Many disposals have a manual hex wrench socket at the bottom. Insert a hex wrench into the socket and rotate it back and forth to dislodge the jam.
3. Clear the Obstruction: If you can see the object causing the jam, use tongs or pliers to remove it. Never use your hands!
4. Reset the Disposal: After clearing the jam, press the reset button on the bottom of the disposal to restart it. Test to see if the blades spin freely.
5. Run Water: Turn on the water to flush out any remaining debris and help the disposal run smoothly.

4. Prevention Tips for Avoiding Future Jams

To keep your garbage disposal running smoothly and prevent future jams, here are some tips:

• Don’t Overload the Disposal: Avoid putting too much food waste in at once. Feed the disposal small amounts at a time.
• Keep Hard Objects Out: Never put hard objects like bones, pits, or utensils into the disposal.
• Grind Fibrous Materials in Small Batches: If you need to dispose of fibrous foods, such as celery, cut them into small pieces before placing them in the disposal.
• Use Cold Water: Always run cold water when using the garbage disposal to help solidify fats and oils, which can otherwise clog the system.
• Clean Regularly: Regularly clean the disposal with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to help prevent buildup and keep it fresh.

5. When to Call the Professionals

While many garbage disposal jams can be fixed with simple troubleshooting, there are times when professional help is needed:

• If the motor or flywheel is malfunctioning.
• If the disposal is leaking or has a persistent odor that doesn’t go away after cleaning.
• If you’re not comfortable with handling electrical components or repairs.

In such cases, it’s best to contact a professional plumber to assess the issue and make necessary repairs. At Plumbers Supply Hub, you can find trusted plumbing experts and high-quality replacement parts to help with any disposal problems.