Jammed Impellers
Jammed Impellers | Garbage Disposal Repair | Plumbing | Tracy City
When a spoon slips past the splash guard and your sink suddenly starts humming instead of grinding, HEP’s certified plumbers are ready to save the day. Our Tracy City team specializes in swift, mess-free garbage disposal repair, freeing jammed impellers, clearing stubborn clogs, and restoring peak performance in a single visit. We arrive with fully stocked trucks, transparent pricing, and the know-how to service every major disposal brand, so you can get back to cooking—and cleaning—without the lingering odor of trapped food waste.
As a locally trusted, family-owned company, we treat your kitchen like it’s our own, protecting counters and cabinetry while we work and leaving your sink sparkling when we’re done. Whether your disposal refuses to start, trips the breaker, or simply growls instead of grinds, HEP delivers friendly, 24/7 repair backed by a satisfaction guarantee. Call today, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with having Tracy City’s best plumbers on speed dial.
FAQs
What usually causes the impellers in my garbage disposal to jam?
The most common culprits are fibrous foods (celery, corn husks), hard objects (bones, fruit pits), grease that solidifies, or accidental foreign objects such as utensils. These items prevent the spinning impellers from moving freely, triggering the unit’s overload protector or causing a hum without grinding.
How can I tell if the impeller is jammed rather than the motor burned out?
A jammed impeller typically produces a steady humming sound when you flip the switch, while a failed motor is silent or repeatedly trips the circuit. You may also notice the sink backing up with water and food scraps that don’t grind. If you can rotate the flywheel with an Allen wrench from the bottom but feel resistance, the impellers are likely jammed.
Is it safe to try to unjam the disposal on my own?
You can attempt simple steps—turn off power at the breaker, use the supplied Allen key in the hex slot on the bottom, and rotate it back and forth. Never put your hand inside the chamber and always confirm the unit is unplugged or the breaker is off. If resistance is heavy or the reset button keeps tripping, call a professional to avoid motor damage or personal injury.
How soon can your Tracy City plumbers come out for a jammed disposal?
For most addresses in Tracy City we offer same-day service if you call before noon, and 24/7 emergency scheduling for severe backups or kitchen shutdowns. Average arrival time during regular hours is 60–90 minutes from dispatch, depending on traffic along TN-56 and local side roads.
Will a jammed impeller mean I have to replace the entire disposal unit?
In many cases, no. A plumber can clear the blockage, inspect the impellers, and test the motor. If the grinding plate, seals, or bearings are still in good shape, a repair is far cheaper than replacement. However, if the unit is over 10–12 years old, shows rust leaks, or the motor overheated repeatedly, replacement may be the more cost-effective solution.
What does professional garbage disposal repair typically cost in Tracy City?
Basic jam-clearing and inspection runs about $95–$135, which includes travel, labor, and small part replacement (e.g., reset switch). More involved repairs—seal kits, impeller plate replacement, or electrical rewiring—may run $150–$250. We always provide a firm quote before starting any work, and our repairs are backed by a one-year workmanship warranty.