American Standard Jammed Rotor / Stalled Impeller

Disposal makes a humming noise when switched on but the grinding plate does not turn.

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Possible Causes

Foreign object lodged in grinding ring, Jammed impeller arm, Overpacked food waste in chamber, Slightly bent turntable

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Turn OFF the wall switch and shut OFF the breaker. Never put your hand into the disposal.

  • Reset overload: Press the red reset button on the bottom of the American Standard unit.
  • Manually free jam:
    • Insert a 1/4" Allen wrench into the bottom hex socket (if provided) and work it back and forth.
    • If no hex socket, insert a wooden broom handle from the top and push the turntable clockwise and counterclockwise.
  • Remove debris: Use tongs or pliers to remove bones, utensils, or other objects from the chamber.
  • Test with water: Restore power, run cold water, and briefly turn the unit on. If it spins freely, let it run for 30 seconds to clear remaining debris.
  • Still hums only: If the rotor will not turn even by hand, the motor may be seized and the disposal should be replaced.
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Repair Difficulty

Easy 2/5

Required Part

Grinding Chamber and Impeller Assembly
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