Garbage disposer stopper switch won't shut off disposer: Common Causes & How to Fix

Repair Instructions:

Garbage disposers have a safety switch that trips and prevents operation when jams occur. This switch has a red reset button on the bottom or side. If the disposer won't run, press this button to reset it. If that doesn't work, the grinding plate could still be stuck. Use a disposer wrench or Allen wrench in the center bottom hole. Wiggle it back and forth to loosen the jam. If there's no bottom access hole, insert a broom handle top-down. Turn the plate manually to free it up. The reset button protects the motor from damage if waste gets stuck. But the unit won't run again until the clog is cleared. Simply resetting the button doesn't fix a stuck grinding plate. The jam must be freed up first. Wiggling the plate with a wrench or broom handle clears most jams. Freeing up internal parts allows normal disposer function after resetting the safety button.

How to Replace Garbage Disposer Safety Switch

1. Turn off power - Locate the circuit breaker box and switch the garbage disposer circuit breaker to the ""off"" position.

2. Disconnect wires - There will likely be 2-3 wires connected to the old safety switch. Take note of where each wire was connected, then disconnect them.
3. Remove mounting screws - Unscrew the mounting screws that hold the old safety switch in place and carefully remove it.
4. Install new safety switch - Position the new safety switch in the same spot and insert and tighten the mounting screws.
5. Connect wires - Connect the wires to the same terminals on the new safety switch they were originally connected to. Double check connections are secure.
6. Test operation - Turn the circuit breaker back on. Press the reset button on the new safety switch. Turn on the disposer to ensure the switch is functioning properly before reassembling any components.
7. Complete installation - Once operation is confirmed, reinstall any remaining components and panels according to manufacturer instructions.

Repair Instructions:

Some disposers use a wall switch to control power instead of a plug. If the unit won't start, this switch could be faulty. Have an electrician check the switch with a multimeter. This tests for proper continuity. If the switch tests bad, it needs replacement by a qualified electrician. Until repaired, unplug any outlet-powered disposer or turn off its breaker. A defective wall switch interrupts the flow of electricity to the unit. This leaves the disposer dead despite being turned on. Properly wired switches pass current to operate the grinding motor. Damaged switches must be replaced to restore power. For safety, keep the unit unplugged or off at the breaker before fixing. A damaged power switch prevents any function until an electrician can replace it. Proper electrical repairs will get the disposer grinding again.

Repair Instructions:

Disposers turned on by a sink stopper can have start switch issues. If the unit won't start, the stopper switch could be stuck or broken. Try removing and reinserting the stopper several times. This may free up a stuck switch. If the disposer still won't turn on, the start switch needs replacing. Until fixed, unplug the disposer or turn off its breaker to prevent accidental starting. The sink stopper activates a switch that powers the motor. Problems with this switch prevent the disposer from running even if plugged in. If the start switch fails, the unit can't grind waste. Simple stopper troubleshooting may get it working again. But a damaged start switch must be replaced. Turn off disposer power as a safety precaution until the defective start switch is repaired.