Jammed Impeller
Jammed Impeller | Garbage Disposal Repair | Plumbing | Sharps Chapel
Nothing stops meal cleanup faster than the growl of a jammed impeller. If your disposal has gone silent or is making a bone-rattling racket, HEP’s licensed plumbers are right around the corner in Sharps Chapel with the know-how and tools to set things spinning smoothly again. We diagnose the cause, clear the blockage, replace worn parts, and double-check every seal and connection so your sink drains like new—no mess left behind.
From emergency calls to routine garbage disposal repair, Sharps Chapel homeowners count on HEP for straight-talk pricing, punctual arrival, and work that’s guaranteed. Let us rescue your kitchen from lingering odors and backed-up sinks; schedule today and get back to cooking, rinsing, and relaxing without a second thought.
FAQs
What causes a garbage disposal impeller to jam?
The most common culprits are fibrous foods (such as celery, corn husks, or onion skins), starchy items that swell (like potato peels or rice), grease that hardens on the impeller plate, foreign objects (utensils, bottle caps), and general wear or corrosion of the unit’s moving parts. Any of these can prevent the impeller blades from spinning freely, leading the motor to hum or stall.
How do I know if my garbage disposal impeller is jammed?
You’ll typically hear a low humming sound when you flip the switch but the grinding plate won’t turn. Water may back up into the sink, and the reset button on the bottom of the unit may trip. If you look down the throat of the disposal with a flashlight (after shutting off the power), you may see stuck food or debris. A jammed impeller often causes a noticeable burning smell as the motor struggles against resistance.
Can I attempt to unjam the impeller myself, or should I call a professional plumber in Sharps Chapel?
You can try a couple of basic, safe steps: turn off the power at the breaker, use the supplied Allen (hex) wrench in the bottom of the unit to manually turn the motor shaft, and use tongs (never your hand) to remove visible obstructions. If the unit still hums, the reset keeps tripping, or you’re uncomfortable working under the sink, call a licensed Sharps Chapel plumber. Continuing to force a jammed disposal can overheat the motor or damage the grinding plate, leading to costlier repairs.
What tools or equipment does your Sharps Chapel plumbing team use to repair jammed impellers?
We arrive with a disposal manufacturer’s jam-buster wrench set, inspection mirror and LED work light, tongs and long-nose pliers for debris removal, a multimeter to confirm safe power isolation, and replacement gaskets or splash guards. If the impeller or grinding plate is bent or cracked, we stock common replacement parts so most repairs are completed in one visit.
How much does garbage disposal jammed impeller repair usually cost in Sharps Chapel, and what factors influence the price?
Most jammed-impeller repairs fall between $85 and $250 for labor and minor parts. Pricing depends on the severity of the jam, the disposal’s horsepower and brand, whether any internal components must be replaced, and the complexity of accessing plumbing or electrical connections. We provide an upfront estimate after diagnosing the issue, so you’ll know the exact cost before work begins.
How can I prevent my garbage disposal from jamming again after repair?
Run a strong flow of cold water before, during, and 20–30 seconds after grinding. Feed food scraps slowly so the motor isn’t overloaded. Avoid fibrous husks, coffee grounds, eggshell membranes, and large bones. Periodically grind a tray of ice cubes with a cup of rock salt or white vinegar to scour the chamber, and flush with baking soda and vinegar monthly to reduce grease buildup. Finally, keep silverware, bottle caps, and other non-food items away from the sink opening to prevent accidental drop-ins.