Step 3 · Attempt to Free the Jam from Below

This is the step most people slow down on. Take it one move at a time — there’s no rush, and you can rewind the clip as many times as you need.

This is the primary method for unjamming the unit. Position yourself under the sink and locate the very bottom of the disposal unit. In the center, you will find a small hexagonal socket. Insert the garbage disposal wrench (or a 1/4-inch Allen wrench) into this socket. Apply firm pressure and work the wrench back and forth, similar to a ratchet motion. You should feel the internal flywheel (impeller plates) start to move. Continue this rocking motion until the flywheel can spin a full 360 degrees freely. This action manually breaks free whatever is causing the jam.