Shine a flashlight into the disposal. Look for foreign objects: broken glass, small bones, fruit pits, or metal (like a spoon or bottle cap). Do NOT reach in yet.
Plug the disposal back in or flip the breaker. Run cold water, then turn on the disposal. It should spin freely. Listen for any remaining grinding. how to unjam insinkerator garbage disposal
Try rotating the wrench more firmly. If it won’t budge, the motor might be seized – call a pro. For metal jams (e.g., a coin), you may need to remove the disposal. Shine a flashlight into the disposal
Never pour grease or fibrous foods (celery, corn husks) down the disposal – they cause most jams over time. Plug the disposal back in or flip the breaker
Locate the small hex hole in the center of the disposal’s bottom (under the sink). Insert the Allen wrench. Work it back and forth like a crank – this manually turns the impeller plate and should free the jam. You’ll feel resistance first, then it loosens.