A humming sound with no grinding almost always means the motor is running, but something is stopping the blades from turning.
When your garbage disposal hums but doesn't grind, it means power is reaching the motor, but the blades are stuck. This is one of the most common disposal complaints, and it's often an easy fix.
A stray utensil, fruit pit, or fibrous food scrap can wedge the impeller in place. The motor tries to turn it but can't, which is what creates the humming sound.
If the disposal hasn't been used in a while, the flywheel underneath can seize up slightly. Many disposals include a small hex-shaped hole underneath for manually turning the flywheel free with an Allen wrench.
Always turn off the power at the switch and unplug the unit before reaching into a disposal for any reason. Never put your hand inside a disposal that is plugged in, even if it appears to be off.
If clearing the jam doesn't help, the motor itself may need replacing. We repair all major disposal brands.
View Garbage Disposal Repair Service →A humming disposal is almost always a jam, not a dead motor. Clearing the blockage safely resolves most cases. If the humming continues after that, the motor or a wiring issue likely needs a professional look.
Same-day appointments available across Converse, TX and nearby cities.
Call (726) 259-1738
