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 Seattle, tap water is very soft (20–50 ppm). Seattle's water is among the softest in the U.S., sourced from Cascade Mountain snowmelt. Mineral buildup is virtually non-existent. Soft water can cause corrosion in older copper piping. Many homes use well water in surrounding areas, which can have iron and sediment.
Plumbers in Seattle typically charge $120–190/hr. Most homeowners budget $800–2,500 for common repairs like fixture replacement, drain clearing, or valve repairs.
Washington requires state licensing. Homeowner exemptions exist for owner-occupied single-family homes. Seattle requires permits and inspections.
Majority post-1960s construction. Copper is standard. Many homes have PEX. Soft water means corrosion is less of a concern than hard water metros. However, old copper piping may have pin-holing. Basement water intrusion is common due to high rainfall. Many homes have sump pumps.
Freeze risk in Seattle is minimal — hard freezes are rare. Pipe insulation is generally not a concern, though occasional cold snaps can surprise under-prepared homes.
DIY in Seattle: Seattle's moderate licensing and environmental focus create a fairly DIY-friendly environment for homeowners. Many people handle minor plumbing and electrical work. Moisture management, mold prevention, and basement waterproofing are common DIY focuses.
- 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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