Why Is My Garbage Disposal Not Working?

It hums but doesn't spin

This almost always means the flywheel is jammed. Never put your hand inside the disposal to check — use the hex-key wrench that came with the unit (or fits the hole on the bottom of most disposals) to manually rotate the flywheel from underneath and free the jam. Always switch off power at the wall switch and ideally the breaker first.

It's completely silent, no hum at all

Check the reset button on the bottom of the unit first — most disposals have one that trips like a small breaker when the motor overheats. If that's not it, confirm the outlet has power and check whether it's on a GFCI circuit that may have tripped.

It's leaking

Leaks from the top usually mean the sink flange seal has failed. Leaks from the bottom or side often mean the internal seals have worn out, which typically means replacing the unit rather than repairing it, since disposals aren't designed to be opened up for internal repairs.

It runs but doesn't grind well

Dull blades (technically impellers) can't be sharpened. If food consistently isn't breaking down the way it used to, and the unit is several years old, this is often just wear.