How to Unclog a Jammed Garbage Disposal – Tips from the Best Plumbers in Truckee

A garbage disposal is one of the most useful kitchen appliances for any home, helping you manage food waste efficiently. But when it jams, it can quickly become frustrating. Knowing how to unclog a jammed garbage disposal safely can save you stress, money, and a call to the plumber. Still, there are times when the problem is too big to fix on your own—when that happens, calling the best plumbers in Truckee at Rooter Man Plumbing in Truckee is the smartest move.

Why Garbage Disposals Jam

Before learning how to fix your disposal, it helps to understand what causes jams. Common culprits include:

• Hard objects – bones, fruit pits, or utensils that fall in.

• Fibrous foods – celery, corn husks, or artichokes can tangle the blades.

• Overloading – too much food waste at once.

• Foreign items – glass, metal, or plastic that doesn’t belong in the drain.

Safety First

When unclogging your garbage disposal, safety is key. Always:

• Turn off power at the circuit breaker or unplug the unit.

• Wear gloves and goggles for protection.

• Never put your hands inside the disposal.

Step-by-Step: How to Unclog a Jammed Garbage Disposal

Step 1: Inspect

Shine a flashlight into the disposal and check for visible blockages.

Step 2: Remove Obstructions

Use pliers or tongs to pull out any foreign objects. Avoid using your hands.

Step 3: Reset the Unit

Press the red reset button (usually on the bottom of the unit). Sometimes this alone fixes the problem.

Step 4: Manually Free the Flywheel

• Insert a ¼-inch Allen wrench into the hex slot underneath the disposal.

• Rotate it back and forth to loosen the jam.

Step 5: Flush with Water

Run cold water through the unit for 1–2 minutes to clear out debris.

Step 6: Restore Power and Test

Turn the power back on, run the water, and test the disposal.

How to Prevent Garbage Disposal Jams

• Always run cold water while grinding food.

• Feed food waste slowly, not all at once.

• Avoid bones, fruit pits, and stringy vegetables.

• Occasionally grind ice cubes and citrus peels to freshen the unit.

When to Call a Professional

If your garbage disposal is still jammed after trying these steps, don’t risk further damage. Contact Rooter Man Plumbing in Truckee—known as the best plumbers in Truckee—for fast, reliable service. Our local plumbing experts can safely repair or replace your disposal and make sure your kitchen runs smoothly again.

FAQs

1. How do I know if my garbage disposal is jammed?
If it hums but won’t spin, or there’s a bad smell coming from the drain, it’s likely jammed.

2. Should I use hot or cold water?
Always use cold water to prevent fats and grease from melting and sticking inside your pipes.

3. What if my disposal still won’t work?
Call Rooter Man Plumbing in Truckee—we specialize in garbage disposal repairs and all kitchen plumbing services.