When you rent a home managed by GPS Renting, you might occasionally face minor maintenance issues such as a loose toilet seat, misaligned door, or jammed garbage disposal. These types of problems are often quick fixes that can be handled in under an hour.
To help both tenants and landlords reduce unnecessary maintenance costs and delays, we created the GPS Renting DIY Series. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to safely and effectively fix a jammed garbage disposal (commonly referred to by the brand name InSinkErator).
Key Takeaway
Most jammed garbage disposals can be fixed in minutes with basic tools and safe steps—saving you time, money, and a service call.
How to Tell If Your Garbage Disposal Is Jammed
You’ll know your disposal is jammed if:
It makes a humming sound but doesn’t grind.
Water is backing up into the sink.
You hear the motor but the blades aren’t spinning.
Important: Never reach into the disposal with your hand. Always turn off power before attempting repairs.
Tools You’ll Need
Flashlight
Pliers or kitchen tongs
Hex wrench (often included with your disposal; also known as an Allen wrench)
Step-by-Step: How to Fix a Jammed InSinkErator
Step 1: Turn Off the Power
Option A: Unplug the disposal under the sink.
Option B: If hardwired, switch off the circuit breaker to your kitchen.
Step 2: Look Inside for the Obstruction
Shine a flashlight into the drain.
Use pliers or tongs to gently remove any visible blockage (e.g., bones, utensils, debris).
Do not use your hands—even when power is off.
Step 3: Use the Reverse Feature (if available)
Some newer models have a reversal switch that runs the motor backward.
Turn on cold water and use the reverse mode briefly to dislodge the clog.
Step 4: Use the Hex Wrench Underneath the Disposal
Go beneath the sink and find the hex hole in the center of the bottom of the disposal unit.
Insert the hex wrench.
Gently twist the wrench back and forth several times to loosen the impeller.
Once the wrench rotates freely in a full circle, the jam is likely cleared.
Step 5: Reset and Test
Press the reset button (usually located on the bottom of the unit).
Turn on the cold water and then restore power.
Run the disposal for 30–60 seconds.
When to Call a Professional
If you’ve followed the steps above and the disposal:
Still hums but won’t spin
Emits a burning smell
Triggers the breaker repeatedly
…it’s time to bring in a licensed handyman or plumber. Continuing to operate a faulty unit can lead to motor burnout or flooding.
If you’re a tenant with GPS Renting, you can submit a maintenance request online. We’ll handle it from there
More DIY Resources from GPS Renting
Want to solve other common maintenance issues yourself? Check out our other guides:
Final Thoughts
Selling may give you fast cash, but renting can offer long-term stability and growth. The best choice depends on your personal goals and market conditions.
Let GPS Renting guide you to the smartest decision. We offer expert consultation, local market knowledge, and end-to-end property management services tailored to your needs.