Garbage disposal humming but not grinding: the reset button

What to do, in order

1. Kill the switch AND the breaker. Stick an arm in only with power fully off (alligator arguers have scars).
2. Clear visible debris with tongs/pliers — never fingers, even powered off.
3. Under the unit: find the hex socket in the center. Rock it back and forth with the supplied wrench (or a 1/4-inch Allen key) until it spins free.
4. Press the red RESET button on the bottom of the unit.
5. Restore power, run COLD water, and test. Humming gone + grinding back = fixed.
6. Persistent hum after unjamming, or a grinding-once-then-stop pattern: motor bearings — replacement time ($250–$600 installed).

Red flags — stop and call a pro

• Water leaking from the bottom seal — the internal housing is compromised; replace, don't repair
• Regular breaker trips from the disposal circuit — unit's drawing stall current; replace it

Prevention

Cold water before/during/after grinding, no grease or fibrous stems (celery, corn husks), and the occasional ice-cube scour keeps impellers clean.

This guide is maintained by the ee.ltd editorial team — reviewed for 2026. Browse all home repair guides or compare plumbing costs.

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What this repair typically costs

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