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How to Unclog a Jammed Garbage Disposal Safely

  • Feb 10
  • 1 min read

Common Causes of a Jammed Garbage Disposal

Garbage disposals often jam due to:

  • Food scraps like bones or fibrous vegetables

  • Utensils falling into the unit

  • Overloading the disposal

How to Un-Jam a Garbage Disposal

Before starting, turn off the power to the disposal.

  1. Locate the hex slot underneath the unit

  2. Insert a ¼-inch Allen wrench

  3. Turn back and forth to free the jam

  4. Remove debris with tongs or pliers

  5. Press the reset button

  6. Restore power and test with cold water running

When to Call a Plumber

If the disposal hums, trips the breaker, or won’t reset, the motor may be failing. A licensed plumber can prevent further damage and determine whether repair or replacement is the best option.

 
 
 

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