What's actually causing this
Garbage disposals jam when hard items (bones, pits, silverware) get lodged between the impellers and the grinding ring. The motor overheats and trips an internal breaker.
What you'll need
Links go to Amazon search results — buy the part that matches your specific model. Uncle AI earns a small commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you.
Step-by-step fix
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1
Turn off the disposal
Switch off the wall switch and unplug the unit under the sink, or turn off its circuit breaker. Never work on a disposal that could activate.
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2
Press the reset button
Look for a small red or black button on the underside of the disposal. Press it firmly until you feel a click. This resets the overload protector.
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3
Unjam the flywheel
Insert a 1/4-inch Allen wrench into the hex socket at the center bottom of the disposal. Work it back and forth until the flywheel turns freely in both directions.
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4
Remove the obstruction
Use tongs or needle-nose pliers to remove any debris from the opening. Use a flashlight to check for items — never use your hand.
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5
Test the disposal
Plug it back in, wait 15 minutes for the motor to cool, press reset again, then turn the cold water on before switching the disposal on.
In Denver, tap water is moderate (80–150 ppm). Denver's water is moderately hard, sourced from snowmelt and groundwater. Scale buildup is noticeable but less severe than in hard-water metros. Water treatment varies by neighborhood.
Plumbers in Denver typically charge $110–170/hr. Most homeowners budget $800–2,500 for common repairs like fixture replacement, drain clearing, or valve repairs.
Colorado requires state licensing for plumbers. Denver requires permits. Homeowner exemptions limited to minor repairs.
Mix of pre-1950s and post-1970s construction. Older homes may have galvanized piping. Freeze-thaw cycles cause burst risk; insulation and heat tape are common. High altitude means lower boiling/freezing points affect equipment. Copper and PEX are standard in newer homes.
Denver winters regularly bring freezing temperatures. Pipe freeze risk is real, especially in older homes with uninsulated exterior walls. Heat tape and foam insulation on exposed pipes are worthwhile investments. Know where your main water shutoff is before winter.
DIY in Denver: Denver's moderate licensing and outdoor-focused culture support DIY repairs. Freeze-thaw maintenance and seasonal winterization are common homeowner tasks. High altitude knowledge is helpful. Most people hire professionals for electrical and HVAC work.
- The unit leaks from the bottom — the internal seals have failed.
- It runs but drains slowly — the drain line may be clogged further down.
- It makes a loud grinding or rattling noise even after clearing the jam — a bearing may be damaged.
- The unit is more than 10 years old and has had multiple issues.
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