Where to Find the Reset Button on Your Garbage Disposal (All Brands)
Every garbage disposal also has a reset button to fix it should it get too full or jammed. Finding the reset button Reset buttons are found on the front part of the disposal, just below the brand name. But for InSinkErator garbage disposals, the reset button can be found on the bottom of the unit.
By doing so, we hope to answer the question of “Where is the reset button on my garbage disposal?” in this article, by showing you where the reset button on popular garbage disposals – like Waste King and InSinkErator – is located.
Where to Find the Reset Button on Popular Garbage Disposal Brands
All garbage disposals have a reset button, but exactly where it is will depend on the brand. Here’s where you can locate the reset button on a few common brands:
- Waste King: On the bottom of the front part
- InSinkErator: On the bottom of the unit
- Moen: On the bottom of the front part
- GE: On the bottom of the front part
- Whirlpool: On the bottom of the unit
- KitchenAid: On the bottom of the unit
- Waste Maid: On the bottom of the front part
- Bonecrusher: On the bottom of the front part
- Criterion: On the bottom of the front part
- Evergrind: On the bottom of the unit
- Everbilt: On the bottom of the front part
- Frigidaire: On the bottom of the front part
- Whirlaway: On the bottom of the front part
So, most garbage disposals have their reset buttons on the front side of the unit. These buttons are usually red or black, so you can easily see them when you need to reset your disposal.
Waste King Garbage Disposal Reset Button Location
On all the Waste King there is a reset button on the front of the unit, right below the logo. It’s at the bottom, inside a little hole. The button is red and easy to see, but the hole is one that doesn’t seem like it could be accidentally depressed.
InSinkErator Garbage Disposal Reset Button Location
The reset button can be found on the bottom of InSinkErator models. It’s red, but you might not notice because it is obscure. You’ll need to crouch down and use your flashlight, or your sense of touch. Once you find it on the map, you will find it easily again next time. This feature is available in all models including the Badger 5, Evolution Excel, Badger 1 and the Evolution Compact.
Moen Garbage Disposal Reset Button Location
The reset button on Moen disposals is located on the bottom, on the side opposite the drain. You can also locate the horsepower rating there. The button is red and contrasts well with the black color, but because it’s not in a location that’s easy to spot, you might find it difficult to see. In the Moen GX series, the reset button is in a hole, and you will need a screwdriver or an Allen wrench to access it.
Full Read: Moen Garbage Disposal Reset Button Location & How to Reset It
Common Signs Your Garbage Disposal Needs a Reset
Your garbage disposal is a convenient kitchen appliance, but it’s easy to take for granted until it stops working. But if you hear these things you might want to go ahead and reset it:
1. Your Garbage Disposal Stops Working
If your disposal suddenly stops, it could be because it is too full or an electrical issue. A lot of the time it can be fixed if I press the reset button and get it running again.
2. Strange Noises or Smells
If you hear strange noise, like grinding, buzzing or humming, then something might be caught or too much is trying to get through. Shutting it off and hitting the reset button might solve the problem. Smells? It may need a reset, and a good cleaning as well.
Full Read: Garbage Disposal Humming? Simple Solutions Inside
3. Leaking or Won’t Turn On
If your disposal is leaking or won’t turn on after that, it may be jammed or overworked. Pushing the reset button may fix the issue, but if it happens more than a few times, consider looking into it personally or hiring a professional.
Full Read: Why Your Garbage Disposal Is Leaking from the Power Cord and How to Fix It?
What Is a Reset Button?
Your garbage disposal gets stuck and a reset button is there to fix the problem. Most of the time it’s a small button on the bottom or side. When you push it in, it assists in getting the motor running again so that you can use the disposal to help eliminate food waste.
How the Reset Button Works
If the garbage disposal becomes too full or there’s a power surge, the reset button prevents the motor from being fried by shutting off the power. When the problem is solved pushing that button will restore power and make the disposal work again. It’s important to know how to use this button when your disposal gets jammed.
Steps to Reset Your Garbage Disposal
Go through the following easy steps to reset your garbage disposal safely. Missing any of these steps could hurt you or damage the disposal:
Step 1: Turn Off the Power
First, check that the power is off. Shut down the disposal switch. For added safety, unplug it, or switch off the breaker for the kitchen. It’s also important so the garbage disposal doesn’t turn on while you are working on it.
Step 2: Clear Any Blockages
Blocking prevents the disposal from functioning properly is a common reason that it ceases to work. Things like spoons, bones or jewelry can become lodged in the blades. It won’t help to press the reset button if the blades are blocked. Remove the obstruction with pliers or tongs. Keep your hands down to avoid injury.
Step 3: Find the Reset Button
If there is a blockage, clear it and then locate the reset button. On most disposals, it’s on the bottom, but it could be on the side. Because the button is typically red, it’s easy to recognize. If you can’t find it, refer to the manual or the manufacturer’s website.
Step 4: Press the Reset Button
After you identify the reset button, press it. If the disposal is overheated, the button may pop out again. If this occurs, wait for 10 to 15 minutes so it cools down, then give it another go.
Step 5: Turn the Power Back On and Test
Turn on the power when the reset button has been kept pressed. Either plug the disposal back in or reset the breaker. Run cold water for a few seconds, then switch on the disposal. It should start working. If there is a hum and something feels wrong, you shut it off. It might still be stuck.
Conclusion
Finally, the reset button in your garbage disposal is a good friend and can save you from all kinds of trouble, such as jams, overloads or electric problems. Depending on the brand, it may be elsewhere, but usually it is located on the bottom or front of the unit. Knowing where to find it can save you time and trouble during the rare troubleshooting times for those brands like Waste King, InSinkErator, Moen, and more.
Just take care to follow precautionary measures, such as cutting off power and removing any blockages before hitting that reset button. Knowing how to use the reset button and knowing when your disposal needs it are good ways to ensure things run smoothly without a trip from the repair-person. Happy resetting!
Further Reading: Fix Garbage Disposal Reset Button Issues: InSinkErator, Waste King, Moen
