Fix Garbage Disposal Reset Button Issues: InSinkErator, Waste King, Moen

Your garbage disposal may suddenly quit working occasionally. This occurs when the system becomes too burdened, and a safety electrical circuit nestled inside the disposal kicks in to protect it from damage. If the circuit is tripped, the disposal will no longer work.

Every garbage disposal has this safeguard — InSinkErator, Waste King, Moen and all the other brands. In order for the disposal to work again, you’ll have to reset the circuit by pushing the reset button.

The reset button pops out when the circuit is interrupted. If you can push it back in, the circuit is live again and your garbage disposal should begin working. But just like any other part of the appliance, the reset button can malfunction. Some common issues include:

• Garbage Disposal Not Working After You Press the Reset Button
• The reset button keeps popping out
• Reset button stuck and won’t move

In this guide, we will tell you quick ways to fix the reset button on your garbage disposal. If your button is getting stuck, won’t pop out or just simply won’t work, we’ll provide you with some easy solutions on how to fix it and get your disposal back up and running.

Why Won’t My Garbage Disposal Work After I’ve Reset It?

If your garbage disposal is still not functioning after you have pressed the reset button, there may be a few reasons for this. The leading etiologies include the following:

• Clogged Impeller: While the reset button is intended to protect the motor from overheating and can be reset, this can’t help a clogged impeller. The impeller is the component that spins around inside the disposal, and if something gets stuck in it, the disposal will not turn on. To see, unplug the disposal, shine a flashlight inside, and wiggle any debris free using tongs or pliers. If you don’t, take this as an obstacle, grab a hex key, and turn the impeller manually to dislodge the obstruction.
• Defective Electrical Connection: You still might have an electrical problem if the reset button doesn’t work. Check that the outlet and power cord are functioning. If you notice any frayed wires or loose connections, the disposal might not be receiving enough power.
• Tripped Circuit Breaker: Resetting the disposal isn’t always enough. And if the circuit breaker has been tripped, you will also have to reset it. From your home’s circuit breaker panel, locate the switch for the disposal and flip it back to the “on” position.
• Burned-Out Motor: If the motor is burned out, pressing the reset button won’t do it any good. THE COST A faulty motor most likely will need replacement, which can be difficult and costly. If you suspect this could be the cause of the problem, it’s wise to call in a professional to make the necessary repairs.

Why Does My Garbage Disposal Keep Tripping the Reset Button?

If your garbage disposal’s reset button keeps going off, it’s usually because something is stuck in the impellers (the spinning blades inside) and blocking them. Under jammed blades, the motor will hesitate and the reset button itself will also pop to provide protection for your disposal. Best fix: Unjam the disposal. Here’s how you can do it:

Steps to Fix the Reset Button

1. Unplug the Garbage Disposal

First, ensure the garbage disposal is turned off. If it’s plugged into the wall, just unplug it. Go to your circuit breaker, and turn off the power to be extra safe from electric shock while you work, in case it’s hardwired.

2. Locate the Jam

Shine a flashlight down the drain in your sink, so you can see down into the disposal. Inspect the impellers for food, utensils and other items, including spoons or glass. If something is there, gently tug it out with a pair of needle-nose pliers. Do not insert your hand into the disposal, not even when it is turned off.

3. Unjam with a Wrench

If you don’t see anything in the way of the blades, you might be able to try loosening the blades. Locate the hex hole on the bottom of the disposal and insert a 1/4-inch Allen wrench. Rock the wrench back and forth until the blades are moving freely. Inch with a broomstick if the disposal does not have a hex hole. Put it throw the sink hole and turn the blades manually until they spin freely.

4. Push the Reset Button

After you have cleared the jam, press the reset button. It should stay in place now.

5. Turn On the Garbage Disposal

Plug the disposal back in if you need to, press the reset button and turn it on. It ought to work the way it’s supposed to.

What If the Reset Button Won’t Stay In?

If its reset button continues to pop out after you’ve cleared a jam, the problem could be the result of internal wiring issues or a faulty motor. This can be costly to repair, and sometimes it’s more affordable to replace the entire disposal.

Why Is Garbage Disposal Reset Button Missing

Every garbage disposal is also equipped with a reset button to keep it safe, and if you don’t have one, you might be wondering why:

• Manufacturing Error: On the off chance that this doesn’t work, it could be that the reset button is missing due to a production error. This shouldn’t happen frequently, but if you believe this is the case, call the manufacturer for a replacement or repair.
• Tampering: The reset button could have been intentionally taken out, perhaps out of curiosity or some other unknown motive. If this did occur, you’ll need to replace the button as soon as possible, so that your disposal continues to be safe to operate.
• Wear and Tear: The reset button can over time lose its ability to be fully depressed due to wear or damage. It could get loose, or even fall out. If this occurs, you’ll have to replace the button in order to ensure the safety feature continues to operate properly.

The reset button is a significant safety feature for your garbage disposal. If it’s not there, it might be a manufacturing error, tampering or wear and tear. Regardless of the reason, replacing the reset button as soon as possible is in order to ensure the disposal is in working condition when you need it.

Conclusion

In a nutshell, the reset button is a crucial security device in your garbage disposal. It helps prevent the unit from getting damaged and ensures its normal operation. If the reset button trips or the disposal stops working after you’ve reset it, however, jammed impeller, electrical issues, a tripped circuit breaker or a burned-out motor could be to blame. You can fix most of these yourself by following the simple steps we’ve outlined here.

If the reset button is gone or fails to reset, don’t ignore it. Getting it replaced fast is essential for preserving the safety and performance of your disposal. Whether it is something minor like a jam or a much bigger issue like a burned-out motor, learning how to properly care for your garbage disposal can help you avoid both spending time and spending money.

Further Reading:
Where to Find the Reset Button on Your Garbage Disposal (All Brands)
Is Hot or Cold Water Best for Your Garbage Disposal?
Why Your Garbage Disposal Allen Wrench Won’t Turn