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
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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 Phoenix, tap water is very hard (320–450 ppm). Phoenix has some of the hardest water in the U.S., sourced from Colorado River and groundwater. Mineral deposits are severe and visible within weeks on fixtures. Water heaters fail quickly (6–8 years). Water softeners are nearly universal among informed homeowners.
Plumbers in Phoenix typically charge $90–150/hr. Most homeowners budget $800–2,500 for common repairs like fixture replacement, drain clearing, or valve repairs.
Arizona has minimal licensing for plumbers. Cities (Phoenix) require permits. Homeowners can perform plumbing with permits.
Majority post-1990s construction. Copper is standard. PEX is increasingly used. Hard water means sediment buildup in water heaters is severe; flushing annually is essential. Slab-on-grade is common; underground pipe leaks are expensive repairs.
DIY in Phoenix: Phoenix is very DIY-friendly. Arizona's permissive licensing and culture support homeowner work. Hard water management and HVAC maintenance are common DIY focuses. Cooling system care is critical and often DIY-maintained.
- 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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