Garbage disposer stopper switch won't turn on disposer: Common Causes & How to Fix

Repair Instructions:

Some garbage disposers have a special batchfeed stopper switch. This stopper starts the disposer when inserted. If the disposer won't turn on, the stopper switch could be faulty. Use a multimeter to test the stopper switch for continuity. This checks if electricity can flow through it. Touch the multimeter leads to the switch terminals. The multimeter should show a low resistance value if the switch works properly. If the multimeter shows no continuity, the switch is defective. It needs replacing. The batchfeed stopper switch activates the disposer when the sink is plugged. No continuity means the electrical signal can't start the motor. Replacing a faulty batchfeed switch restores normal push button starting when the stopper is inserted. This safety switch prevents the disposer from shocking hands in the sink.

How to Replace Garbage Disposer Start Switch

1. Turn off power - Locate the circuit breaker box and switch the garbage disposer circuit breaker to the ""off"" position. This ensures the disposer will not turn on during the repair.

2. Remove old switch - Unscrew the mounting screws that hold the old start switch in place. Carefully pull the switch out of the disposer, being mindful of any wires connected to the back.
3. Disconnect wires - There will likely be two wires connected to the old start switch. Take note of where each wire was connected, then disconnect them from the switch.
4. Connect wires to new switch - Take the new start switch and connect the wires to the same terminals they were originally connected to. Ensure a proper and secure connection.
5. Mount new switch - Place the new start switch in the same spot as the old one and screw it into place securely using the mounting screws.
6. Restore power and test - Turn the circuit breaker back on. Turn on the disposer to ensure the new start switch is functioning properly before reassembling any components.

Repair Instructions:

Garbage disposers get power either from a wall outlet or direct household wiring. They turn on via a switch or sink stopper. If your disposer doesn't work, first check the power source. Plug-in models can be tested by plugging in a lamp or radio. If those work, the outlet has power. For direct wired units, verify the circuit breaker hasn't tripped and fuses are good. Disposers need full 120v power to grind waste. No power at the source means an electrical issue is preventing operation. Tripped breakers or blown fuses must be reset or replaced. Test outlets with another appliance to confirm electricity is present. Restore power first before replacing other parts. The disposer not turning on is usually caused by an interrupted power supply, not an internal fault. Confirm power is arriving properly before digging deeper into the unit.

Repair Instructions:

First check that the outlet or switch has power if the disposer won't run. Use a multimeter to test wall outlets for 120 volts. For direct wire units, test the wall switch for continuity. This confirms the switch is passing current. Also inspect circuit breakers and fuses for the disposer circuit. The unit needs full 120v power supply. Tripped breakers, blown fuses, faulty outlets, or bad switches interrupt the electricity. This leaves the disposer dead. Restoring a lost neutral, resetting breakers, or replacing a bad switch gets power flowing again. Proper electrical connections and switched power are essential for turning the motor. Verify power at the source first before replacing other disposer parts. No power at the plug or switch means a wiring issue is preventing operation.

Repair Instructions:

Some garbage disposers turn on using a special stopper switch. This batchfeed stopper activates the disposer when inserted in the sink drain. If your disposer won't start with the stopper, the switch could be faulty. Try removing the stopper and reinserting it a few times to see if the switch just got stuck. If the disposer still doesn't start, the batchfeed switch likely needs replacing. The stopper switch completes the circuit to provide power to the grinding motor. A defective switch disrupts this power supply. The disposer remains off even with the stopper inserted. Check that the stopper moves freely without resistance. Smooth operation rules out simple jams. If the batchfeed stopper can't activate the start switch, replacement is required.

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.