If the garbage disposal hums, turn it off first. A hum often means the unit is jammed or overloaded, not that you should keep trying the switch. Never put your hand into the disposal.
Quick safe sequence
- Turn the disposal switch off.
- Turn off water.
- Wait for standing water to drain or bail it out.
- Use the model's approved wrench or method to free the jam.
- Remove objects with tongs, not your hand.
- Let the unit cool before trying again.
Why it hums
A disposal can hum when the motor is trying to run but the turntable is stuck. InSinkErator's jam guidance starts with making sure the switch is off and says not to place your hand in the disposal at any time.
Reset button basics
Many disposals have overload protection. If the unit overheats or stalls, it may need time to cool before reset or restart. Follow your model instructions. If the reset won't stay engaged or the breaker trips again, stop.
What not to do
- Don't put your fingers into the chamber.
- Don't keep flipping the switch while it hums.
- Don't use harsh drain chemicals in the disposal.
- Don't force tools that don't fit your model.
When to call for service or replace it
Call for help if the disposal leaks, trips the breaker repeatedly, smells electrical, won't rotate after the proper jam steps, or hums even when nothing is jammed.
Good maintenance rhythm
- After every use: run cold water for 15 to 30 seconds after the grind stops so debris clears the trap.
- Weekly: run a small batch of ice cubes through the disposal to dislodge buildup on the grind ring.
- Monthly: wipe under the splash guard with a brush and dish soap.
- After any jam: cut power at the switch or breaker before reaching anywhere near the grind chamber.
- Ongoing: avoid fibrous waste (celery, corn husks, onion skins), grease, oil, and starchy foods (pasta, potato peels). They cause most of the jams the reset button can't fix.
- Yearly: visual check of the disposal body, the dishwasher drain hose connection, and the P-trap for leaks.