McAlpine Jammed Rotor / Impeller

Disposal makes a humming noise but does not grind, and the sink begins to fill with water.

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Possible Causes

Foreign object jammed in McAlpine grinding chamber, Swollen food waste (rice, pasta) compacted under impellers, Bent impeller arm, Seized motor shaft

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Turn off power at the switch and breaker. Never put your hand into the disposal.

  • Clear standing water: Remove as much water from the sink as possible using a jug or sponge.
  • Free the jam: Insert the correct size Allen key into the hex socket on the bottom of the McAlpine unit and work it back and forth to free the rotor.
  • Remove debris from above: From the sink opening, use pliers or tongs to remove any visible bones, utensils, or hard objects.
  • Reset and test: Press the reset button, restore power, run cold water, and test the unit with a brief on/off pulse.
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Repair Difficulty

Easy 2/5

Required Part

Impeller Plate
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