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Plumbing

Why did my garbage disposal suddenly stop working?

What’s likely going on

Most disposals that go silent (not even a hum) have simply tripped their internal reset switch — a small red button on the bottom of the unit — usually from being overloaded or jammed. A humming sound with no spinning is different: something's physically stuck inside.

Is this a DIY job or worth calling someone?

Never reach into a disposal by hand, ever — even unplugged. Pressing the reset button is safe and often fixes it. If it hums but won't spin, or the reset doesn't help, that's a job for someone with the right tool to clear it safely.

Not sure, or ready to have someone take care of it?