Waste King Jammed Impeller / Locked Rotor

Garbage disposal hums when switched on but the grinding plate does not spin.

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Possible Causes

Foreign object lodged between turntable and grinding ring, Overpacked food waste in grinding chamber, Bent impeller or turntable, Seized motor shaft bearings

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

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

  • Step 1 – Press red reset button: On the bottom of the Waste King unit, press the red reset button until it clicks.
  • Step 2 – Use jam-buster wrench: Insert the jam-buster wrench (or 1/4" Allen key on compatible models) into the hex socket on the bottom of the motor. Rotate it back and forth firmly until it moves freely through a full revolution.
  • Step 3 – Remove debris from top: From the sink opening, use tongs or pliers to remove any visible objects (utensils, bones, fruit pits). Do not use your fingers.
  • Step 4 – Flush with water: Run cold water into the sink for 30–60 seconds to help clear loosened debris.
  • Step 5 – Test operation: Restore power, run cold water, and briefly turn on the disposal. If it still only hums, the motor bearings or rotor may be seized and the disposal will likely need replacement.
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Repair Difficulty

Easy 2/5

Required Part

Jam-Buster Wrench
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