We’ve all been there. You’re cleaning up after dinner, and suddenly, your garbage disposal decides to take the night off. It’s stuck, it’s not budging, and now you’re left with a sink full of who-knows-what. But don’t worry! Unjamming a garbage disposal is easier than you might think. Here’s how to get things moving again—safely.
Step 1: Safety First
Before you do anything, make sure the disposal is off. Double-check by flipping the switch and unplugging it if possible. You don’t want any surprises while you’re working on it.
Step 2: Grab the Right Tools
All you need is a hex wrench (usually included with your garbage disposal) or an Allen key. No fancy tools are required!
Step 3: Locate the Reset Button
Check the bottom of your disposal. You’ll find a small red button—this is the reset button. If your disposal is just overheated, pressing this might do the trick. If not, we move on.
Step 4: Use the Hex Wrench
Find the hex hole in the center of the disposal’s bottom. Insert the hex wrench and turn it back and forth. This will manually rotate the blades and help loosen whatever’s stuck.
Step 5: Check Inside
Still stuck? Use a flashlight to look inside the disposal. If you see the culprit (like a spoon or a stubborn piece of food), use tongs or pliers to remove it. Never use your hands—safety first, remember?
Step 6: Test It Out
Plug the disposal back in, flip the switch, and see if it’s working. If it’s humming along smoothly, you’re good to go!
When to Call Aqua Knight Plumbing
If your disposal is still stuck or you’re not comfortable trying to unjam it yourself, give us a call. We’re here to help with any disposal dilemmas, big or small.
Final Thoughts
A stuck garbage disposal doesn’t have to ruin your night. With these simple steps, you can unjam it safely and quickly. And if you ever need a hand, Aqua Knight Plumbing is just a phone call away.
