If your garbage disposal hums but the reset button isn't working, it most commonly indicates a severe obstruction that the motor cannot overcome, which can lead to the motor burning out if not addressed promptly.
Understanding the Humming Sound
A humming sound from your garbage disposal when it fails to grind means that the motor is receiving electrical power, but it cannot rotate the internal grinding components, such as the impellers or inner flywheel. This usually points to a jammed mechanism preventing the motor from spinning freely.
Common Reasons the Reset Button Fails
When the reset button on your garbage disposal isn't working despite the humming, here's why:
Motor Overload or Burnout
The reset button is a safety feature designed to trip when the motor overheats due to an electrical overload, often caused by a prolonged jam. If the disposal remains jammed for too long, or if it has been repeatedly overloaded, the motor can sustain damage or even completely burn out. Once the motor is burnt out, the reset button will no longer be effective in restoring power because the core electrical components are damaged. The motor can become irreparably damaged unless the reset button or a circuit breaker successfully shuts off the power in time.
Persistent or Severe Jam
Even if the motor isn't completely burnt out, a particularly stubborn or unyielding jam might prevent the motor from starting up, even after you attempt to press the reset button. The reset button primarily addresses electrical overloads; it cannot physically remove an obstruction that is too powerful for the motor to overcome. Examples of severe jams include:
- Hard foreign objects like metal utensils or small bones.
- Large quantities of fibrous materials (e.g., celery stalks, potato peels).
- Grease and food particles that have solidified and hardened.
Faulty Reset Button or Internal Wiring
Less frequently, the issue might be with the reset button itself, which can wear out over time. Alternatively, there could be internal wiring issues within the disposal unit that prevent power from reaching the motor, even if the reset mechanism is attempted.
Troubleshooting Steps When Your Disposal Hums
Before concluding that your motor is burnt out, always attempt to clear any potential jams. Always ensure the power to the disposal is OFF at the circuit breaker before attempting any of these steps to prevent accidental activation and injury.
- Turn Off Power: Locate the circuit breaker controlling the disposal and switch it to the "OFF" position. This is a critical safety step.
- Inspect for Obstructions: Use a flashlight to look down into the drain opening. Carefully remove any visible foreign objects using pliers or tongs. Never use your hands.
- Clear the Jam Manually:
- Locate the hexagonal hole on the bottom center of the disposal unit (often accompanied by a red reset button).
- Insert the appropriate Allen wrench (usually 1/4 inch or 6.35mm, often provided with the disposal) into this hole.
- Rotate the wrench back and forth forcefully to free the impellers. You might feel resistance initially, but it should eventually loosen.
- If you don't have an Allen wrench hole on the bottom, you might try to manually move the impellers from the top with a sturdy, non-metallic tool like a broom handle, pushing them in a circular motion.
- Press the Reset Button: Once you've confirmed no obstructions are present and the impellers can move freely, turn the power back on at the circuit breaker. Then, firmly press the red reset button on the bottom of the disposal.
- Test the Disposal: Turn on a cold water faucet and then flip the disposal switch.
When to Consider Replacement or Professional Help
If the reset button still fails to work after thoroughly clearing any jams, and especially if you suspect a burnt-out motor or a more complex internal electrical issue, it's often more cost-effective to consult a qualified plumber or consider replacing the unit entirely. Attempting advanced electrical repairs on a disposal without proper knowledge can be dangerous.
Summary of Humming Disposal Issues & Solutions
| Problem | Symptom | Potential Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|---|
| Humming, No Grind | Motor hums, but grinding plate doesn't move. | Jammed Impeller/Flywheel | Clear obstruction, use Allen wrench from bottom, then press reset. |
| Humming, Reset Fails | Motor hums, and the reset button does nothing. | Burnt-out Motor or Severe, Unclearable Jam | Attempt to clear jam manually; if still failing, professional repair or replacement likely needed. |
| No Power After Reset | Disposal remains completely dead after reset attempt. | Faulty Reset Button, Internal Wiring Issue | Professional diagnosis or replacement may be required. |
