Kitchen garbage disposals get jammed now and then. The good news: most jams can be cleared in a couple of minutes with a 1/4" Allen wrench (hex key). Use this quick guide to do it safely—then grab the right hex key if yours went missing.
Step-by-Step (Safe & Simple)
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Kill the power. Unplug the disposal under the sink. If it’s hard-wired, switch the breaker off. Flip the wall switch on and off to confirm it won’t start. Never work on a powered unit.
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Check for obvious obstructions. Shine a flashlight into the drain. If you can see a foreign object (bone, utensil, pit, shell), use needle-nose pliers to remove it. Do not put your hand inside.
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Free the impeller with a 1/4" hex key. On the bottom center of most disposals there’s a small hex socket. Insert the 1/4" Allen key and gently work it back and forth to break the jam. It should turn freely once cleared.
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Press the reset button. Many units have a small red reset button on the bottom or lower back. If it’s popped out, press to reset the overload.
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Restore power & test with water running. Turn on cold water, then the switch. If it buzzes or jams again, cut power and repeat. Persistent jams may indicate a lodged object or a failing motor.
Tips & Common Gotchas
- Don’t force it. If the hex key won’t budge, rock gently—brute force can damage the motor or coupler.
- Different brands vary. Most mainstream units accept a 1/4" hex, but some designs are different—check the manual if there’s no hex socket underneath.
- Find the cause. Seeds, fibrous peels, bones, shot glasses (it happens)—remove the culprit so it doesn’t re-jam.
- Buzzing with no spin (and reset trips) after clearing can mean an obstruction remains or the motor capacitor is failing—time to call a pro or replace the unit.
FAQ
What size Allen key fits most disposals?
1/4" is the most common size for the bottom-center service socket.
Where is the reset button and what does it do?
It’s typically a red button on the bottom or lower back. It pops when the motor overloads; press to restore power after clearing the jam.
Can I use an Allen key set from Monster Bolts?
Absolutely. See our hex key sets or the single 1/4" Allen wrench.