Disposal runs but makes a loud metallic grinding or scraping noise even when empty; internal LED (if equipped) may flash seven times indicating unbalanced or loose components.

Safety First: Disconnect power at the plug or breaker. Never put your hand into the disposal.

• Step 1 – Visual inspection: Use a bright flashlight to look into the grinding chamber from above. Rotate the impellers gently with a wooden spoon to expose hidden objects.
• Step 2 – Remove foreign objects: Use long-nose pliers or tongs to remove screws, bottle caps, glass, or other debris. Rotate the plate manually to ensure nothing remains.
• Step 3 – Check impeller movement: Each impeller arm on the AmazonCommercial grind plate should pivot slightly. If one is seized or extremely loose, the plate assembly may be damaged.
• Step 4 – Test briefly: Restore power, run water, and switch ON for a few seconds. If the noise persists and there is no debris, the shredder ring or impeller plate is likely damaged.
• Next step: Because internal mechanical parts are not typically serviceable separately in commercial-style disposals, replacement of the grind chamber/motor assembly or entire unit is usually required.