JAMMED GARBAGE DISPOSER
Symptom: When I turn on my garbage disposer, it just hums — or does nothing at all.
Diagnosis: All garbage disposers have a built-in circuit breaker that shuts off if they become jammed. Look underneath the disposer for a small square button, usually red or black, and push it in. Turn on the switch to the disposer for two or three seconds and see whether the unit runs or makes any noise. If not, power may not be reaching the disposer. Check household breakers or fuses, and if the disposer is plugged into an outlet under the sink, check the outlet for power. If the unit hums or is very noisy when it runs, follow these steps:
1. Disconnect the appliance from the power source.
2. If possible, use a 1/4in. Allen wrench underneath the bottom of the disposer to rotate the disposer. This will often free a jam.
3. Use a flashlight to look for an obstruction between the inside wall of the disposer and the round bottom plate. Use needle-nose pliers or another tool to dislodge and remove any obstruction.
4. If no obstruction is visible and it is very difficult to rotate the disposer, you may have to replace the unit.