Dishwasher
Garbage Disposal Hums But Won't Spin? The 2-Minute Fix
Most disposal lockups are fixed with an Allen wrench from underneath. Here's the step-by-step — and when to call a tech instead.
Turn it off first
Flip the wall switch off and unplug under the sink. A disposal that hums means power is on and the motor is trying — never reach in with the switch live.
Free the impeller with the hex wrench
Look under the disposal for a hex hole in the center bottom. Insert a 1/4" Allen wrench and rotate back and forth until it spins freely. A piece of bone, fruit pit, or silverware is usually the culprit.
Press the reset button
Small red button on the bottom of the disposal. Press it in. Restore power. Run cold water and tap the switch — most disposals come right back to life.
When to call
If it still hums or trips the reset within seconds, the motor windings are shorted. Replacement is usually more cost-effective than repair.