Garbage disposal runs but makes a loud grinding or scraping metal-on-metal noise.

Safety First: Turn OFF the wall switch and unplug the disposal or shut off the breaker. Never reach into the disposal with your hand.

Step-by-step:

• 1. Visual inspection: Shine a flashlight into the KitchenAid disposal. Look for metal objects (spoons, bottle caps, screws) or hard debris.
• 2. Remove debris: Use long-nose pliers or tongs to carefully remove any foreign objects. Rotate the impeller plate with a wooden dowel to expose hidden items.
• 3. Check for damage: Inspect the impeller lugs and shredder ring for obvious cracks or missing pieces. Minor scoring is normal; large chips or missing sections indicate damage.
• 4. Manual rotation: Insert a 1/4" Allen key into the bottom hex socket and rotate to ensure smooth movement without binding.
• 5. Test: Restore power, run water, and briefly operate the disposal. If the grinding noise persists with no debris present, internal components may be damaged.

When to call a technician: A damaged shredder ring or impeller plate is not typically user-serviceable; replacement of the disposal is usually required.