Why Is My Garbage Disposal Humming But Not Working Properly?

A garbage disposal that hums but doesn’t grind usually has a jammed impeller or a stalled motor. The most common cause is something wedged in the flywheel, which locks the blades so the motor can only hum and may overheat if left on. Avoid running it repeatedly, as prolonged humming can trip the reset or damage the motor. Our licensed technicians handle these disposal jams across the Salem–Roanoke area every week.

Try these safe checks before calling a plumber:

• Turn the switch off, then press the red reset button on the bottom of the unit.
• Use the included wrench/hex key in the bottom port to gently rotate the flywheel free.
• Remove visible items with tongs or pliers (never hands), run cold water, and test.
• If the breaker trips, the hum returns, or you smell burning, stop; the motor or capacitor may have failed, and leaks or smoke call for emergency service.

Always cut power at the switch or breaker before reaching into or working on a disposal.

Updated: 2026-02-24

Need help in Salem, VA? Call (540) 238-0320 or book online. “Most recently we had a problem with a broken garbage disposal, and Wisler was out the next day to fix the issue.” — Russell S.