How to locate and use the reset button on your garbage disposal

If your garbage disposal has suddenly stopped working, it might just need a reset. Most disposals come with a reset button that can fix common issues like overheating or jams. But where is it, and how do you use it? We’ll walk you through finding the reset button and getting your disposal back up and running in no time.

Heads up: The tips here might not match your exact appliance model. We try to offer advice for all sorts of DIY repairs, but models can vary. That means troubleshooting steps, error codes, and parts might be different. For accurate guidance, it’s best to check your appliance’s manual or just give us a shout if you’ve got questions.

Why your garbage disposal might need to be reset

If your garbage disposal suddenly stops working, there’s a good chance it needs a quick reset. The reset button is a built-in safety feature that protects the motor and helps resolve common problems. Here are the main reasons your disposal might require a reset.

• Overheating issues: Running for too long or grinding up tough materials can cause the motor to overheat. The reset button acts as a safety switch, shutting down the unit to prevent further damage.
• Clogs and jams: Food scraps, debris, or even small objects can get stuck in the disposal, causing it to jam. A jam forces the motor to work harder, which can trigger the safety mechanism and shut the disposal off.
• Electrical surges or interruptions: Power surges, electrical outages, or fluctuations can disrupt the disposal’s operation. In these cases, pressing the reset button can help restart the motor and restore normal function.

How to locate the reset button

When your garbage disposal isn’t working, finding the reset button is your first step to fixing it. Most disposals have a reset button in a consistent location, but it can still be tricky to spot if you’re not sure where to look. Here’s how to find it quickly:

1. Find the garbage disposal unit connected to your sink drain.
2. Most reset buttons are positioned on the underside of the disposal.
3. Use a flashlight if the area under your sink is dark.
4. On some models, the reset button may be located on the side instead of the bottom.
5. The reset button is usually small, round, and red.
6. If you can’t find the reset button, check your disposal’s user manual for specific guidance.

Pro tip: Keep your phone’s flashlight handy or use a portable light source to make finding the button easier, especially if your sink cabinet is dimly lit.

How to use the reset button

Once you’ve found the reset button on your garbage disposal, using it is straightforward. It’s designed to restart the motor after an overload or jam. Follow these steps to safely reset your disposal and get it back in working order:

1. For safety, unplug the disposal from the outlet under your sink.
2. If the unit is hardwired, switch off the circuit breaker that powers the disposal.
3. Press the red reset button firmly. You should feel or hear a click, which means the button has been activated.
4. Plug the disposal back in or turn the circuit breaker back on.
5. Turn on the cold water and then flip the disposal switch.
6. If the disposal starts running smoothly, the reset was successful.

Read more: How to Clean a Garbage Disposal That Smells Bad

What if the reset button doesn’t solve the problem

If pressing the reset button doesn’t get your garbage disposal back in action, don’t worry. There are a few other things you can check and fix on your own before considering professional help or replacement.

Check for clogs or jams. Food scraps, debris, or even small objects can block the blades, preventing the disposal from working even after a reset.

1. Unplug the disposal or turn off the breaker for safety.
2. Shine a flashlight into the disposal and look for any visible blockages.
3. Use pliers or tongs to carefully remove debris, never use your hands.
4. If the flywheel is stuck, use an Allen wrench in the socket at the bottom of the disposal to manually rotate it and free the jam.

Inspect the wiring. Loose or damaged wires can disrupt the electrical flow, stopping the motor from starting.

1. Turn off the power and remove the bottom panel of the disposal.
2. Check the wiring connections for any signs of looseness, damage, or burn marks.
3. Tighten any loose wires with a screwdriver and replace damaged ones as needed.

Test electrical components with a multimeter. Why this matters: If the motor or reset button isn’t functioning, testing these parts can help you pinpoint the problem.

1. Set your multimeter to the continuity or resistance (ohms) setting.
2. Test the motor terminals for continuity, if there’s no reading, the motor may be faulty.
3. Test the reset button by placing the probes on its terminals. No continuity means the button is defective and may need replacement.

Replace the reset button if necessary. A worn-out or damaged reset button won’t work correctly and might need to be replaced.

1. Disconnect the button’s wiring and remove it from the unit.
2. Install a new reset button that matches your disposal model.
3. Reassemble the unit and test it to ensure the issue is resolved.

If you’ve cleared clogs, inspected the wiring, and tested the motor but the disposal still doesn’t run, the issue could be with the motor itself or another internal part. In this case, it might be more cost-effective to replace the disposal.

Read more: How To Install A Garbage Disposal

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