When a garbage disposal gets stopped up, it may seem easiest to turn to the phone book and call in a plumber. However, many garbage disposal issues can be fixed easily. If it’s a simple jam that’s causing the problem, grab a broom and get ready to apply a little elbow grease. The garbage disposal will be up and running again in no time.
5 Never put your hand in the garbage disposal unless the power is completely cut off. Never lean over the garbage disposal while trying to unclog it. If a kitchen utensil is causing the problem, it could shoot out when the motor is turned on.
Turn the garbage disposal's power back on and run cold water into the disposal. Flip on the disposal. It should work with little difficulty. If the disposal doesn't work or sounds like it's struggling, flip off the power and use the broom handle again. It may take a few tries, but should eventually get things moving.