How To Reset, Fix, Or Replace Garbage Disposer (Can It Be Repaired?)

fix reset replace garbage disposer

Do you want to know how to fix or replace a garbage disposer?

Most problems with disposers can easily be fixed with a bit of DIY skill and unjamming the grinding plate.

In this guide, we’ll cover…

  • How to locate and hit the reset button
  • Step-by-step guide on replacing a disposer (if needed)
  • How to unjam the grinding plate from food debris
  • Identifying a burned-out or failed motor
  • A guide on preventative maintenance

Let’s get started!

How To Fix And Reset Garbage Disposer

When a garbage disposer fails to turn on, it can be a mysterious event for homeowners.

Thankfully, fixing it can be as simple as hitting the reset button and removing food scraps from the disposer. Sometimes there’s an electrical issue with the wall switch, breaker, or outlet that it’s plugged into.

Here are a few simple steps to fix your garbage disposer…

Resetting The Unit

reset garbage disposer

If the garbage disposer hums or buzzes when you turn it on, it’s likely that there is a jam of the grinding plate. The good news is that the humming indicates that there’s power.

Things like bones, pieces of glass, fibrous food scraps, and cooking grease can jam up the disposer.

Fortunately, it’s usually a straightforward process to unjam it…

1. Turn Off The Disposer

Flip the wall switch or unplug the unit to make sure it’s off.

2. Locate and Push The Reset Button

All garbage disposers are equipped with a reset button on the unit. It’s usually a small red or black button on the bottom of the disposer but may be on the side.

When you push in the reset button, it should stay pressed in and it shouldn’t push back out.

If the reset button pops out, the unit may be overheated or there could be an electrical fault. If the garbage disposer is warm to the touch, let it cool down for 20 minutes and try again.

Use A Hex Key To Unjam Disposer

unjam garbage disposer

1. Turn Off The Breaker

With a flashlight, inspect the inside of the garbage disposer for food, glass, or other objects that may be jamming the disposer.

Before attempting to remove any debris, turn off the disposer at the wall switch and circuit breaker. I recommend wearing gloves, eye protection, and using pliers to remove debris.

Trying to remove debris with your hands especially when you aren’t sure power is off can be dangerous.

2. Use A Hex Key To Unjam Disposer

Garbage disposers have a hole at the bottom that can be used to free up the flywheel or grinding plate.

Insert a 1/4-inch hex key or Allen wrench into the socket which is typically in the center of the bottom of the disposer.

Turn the hex key clockwise and counterclockwise to move the grinding plate back and forth. If there is resistance, then there’s likely a jam caused by food, glass, or plastic.

Keep turning the Allen wrench in both directions until the grinding plate is freely moving.

3. Inspect the Interior

After freeing up the grinding plate, look inside the unit for debris that got dislodged.

Just remember to shut off power before attempting to remove objects.

4. Turn On Power And Test

Flip the wall switch or circuit breaker back on, run cold water, and test the unit.

Test The Electrical System

how to fix garbage disposal

1. Check The Outlet

If you don’t hear a hum or buzz when you turn on the disposer, there may be interrupted power to the unit.

If the disposer is plugged into an outlet under the sink, verify that the outlet has power with a non-contact voltage tester or plug in a device or lamp to check.

Hit GFCI Reset Button

Even though it isn’t typical, the outlet may be GFCI or connected to another GFCI in the kitchen.

GFCI outlets have two buttons on them that say reset and test. If the disposer is plugged into a GFCI outlet, hit the reset button to restore power.

Also check the nearby outlets in the kitchen to make sure they aren’t tripped since it may be on the same multi-outlet circuit.

I invite you to read our guide on how to troubleshoot GFCI outlets here.

2. Check The Electrical Panel

reset circuit breaker to fix garbage disposer

Garbage disposers are usually on a dedicated electrical circuit and will have their own labeled circuit breaker at the panel. Verify that the breaker didn’t trip.

Even if the breaker looks good, I would still turn it off once and flip it back on.

The circuit breaker may have a button that says test on it which means it is a GFCI circuit breaker. When GFCI breakers trip, they are usually stuck in the middle position which means it tripped and is currently without power.

The way to reset a GFCI circuit breaker is to flip it completely to the off position, then flip it again to the on position.

I recommend checking out our guide on electrical breaker sizes to learn more and to verify it’s the correct size for your disposer.

3. Check The Wall Switch

Sometimes the wall switch can be defective, which prevents the disposer from turning on.

Flip the wall switch and listen for a click inside it. If there isn’t a click, the switch itself may be defective.

If you have a non-voltage contact tester, place it up to the switch and see if it detects power.

Verify That Switch Is Defective

You can verify that the switch isn’t working by first turning off the circuit breaker for the disposer. Remove the wall switch cover plate.

Verify that there isn’t power with a non-contact voltage tester.

Remove the line and load wires from the brass-colored screws on the switch. The line wire is the hot that is coming from the electrical panel. The load wire is the hot that is going from the switch to the garbage disposer. These wires should be black or red.

You can learn more on identifying basic electrical wiring with our expert guide here.

Connect the two wires together to bypass the switch. Flip the circuit breaker back on and see if the garbage disposer powers on.

How To Identify A Burned-Out Motor

If the disposer motor has failed, there’s not much a typical homeowner can do but replace the disposer.

If you have electrical DIY skills, there is the option of opening up the garbage disposer to test for burned-out wires, loose connections, blown fuses, or faulty circuit boards (if the unit has one).

Here are a few signs that the motor may have failed…

1. No Humming Or Buzzing

If you have confirmed power to the disposer, and the unit makes ZERO sounds, it is likely a burned-out motor. The easiest option is to just replace the garbage disposer.

2. The Reset Button Or Breaker Keeps Tripping

If the reset button on bottom of disposer keeps pushing out, or if the circuit breaker keeps tripping, the motor is likely damaged.

An electrical fault inside the disposer may be to blame or the motor overheated and caused a failure.

3. Unit Hums But Grinding Plate Doesn’t Move

If you verified that the grinding plate moves freely when using an Allen key, but the unit still won’t work, then there is likely an internal failure.

Just make sure that the grinding plate is not jammed with debris.

4. Burning Smells

If you notice a burning smell when you turn on the disposer, it is likely a failed motor.

The windings (copper wires) of the motor typically release a burning smell or even smoke when it is no longer functional.

5. Measure Resistance Or Ohms of Motor Windings

If you have the DIY skill of using a multi-meter, you can open up the disposer and check for normal continuity of the windings.

The copper windings should NOT give values of infinity or zero which would indicate an open circuit or short circuit.

Typical resistance values will depend on the model but it’s normally around a few hundred.

6. Confirmed Power To Outlet Or Switch

If you have confirmed that there is power to the outlet, and the wall switch is functional — then it is likely a failed motor.

If you’re dealing with plumbing issues, understanding What Is Polybutylene Pipe? (Identify, Lawsuits, Cost) can help with broader maintenance.

How To Replace Garbage Disposer

Replacing a garbage disposer is a relatively simple DIY project that only needs a few tools such as:

  • Plumber’s putty
  • Screwdriver
  • Adjustable wrench
  • Pliers
  • Bucket or towel to catch water
  • Non-contact voltage tester

It’s essential to shut off power to the disposer and preferably at the breaker panel. I have seen a lot of unsafe wire connections around disposers that can lead to getting shocked, so please be careful.

1. Turn Off Power

If the disposer is plugged into an outlet under the sink, unplug it. If the unit is hardwired, flip the breaker in the electrical panel.

Even if plugged in, it’s still a good idea to flip the breaker in the panel. If you think someone may plug the disposer back in or if there are other live wires in the sink cabinet — you don’t want to get shocked especially when dealing with water.

I recommend using a non-contact voltage tester to check the wiring to verify it’s de-energized.

2. Prepare The Cabinet

I recommend removing all items in the cabinet so you have room to work.

If you have a shallow bucket, you can place it under the disposer to catch water if anything spills out. A towel can also work in a pinch.

You may want to also place an object or support item a few inches underneath the disposer due to the heavy weight.

When you disconnect it, the unit will fall down, and possibly damage the cabinet floor. Placing an object a few inches underneath it will catch the weight.

3. Disconnect Drain Pipe & Hose

how to replace a food disposal

Unfasten the metal clamp that connects the main drain pipe. It typically has a circular shape with one or two nuts on the side. Use a screwdriver or wrench to loosen the nuts.

The clamp should now be loose so you can pull of the drain pipe.

If you have a dishwasher, you will need to disconnect the flex hose. The dishwasher hose usually has a simple metal band or clamp, loosen it with the screwdriver.

If the nuts or clamps are corroded, they may be difficult to remove. I recommend using WD-40 or a penetrating oil to help loosen them up if needed.

4. Disconnect The Disposer

To disconnect the disposer, you will need to turn the mounting ring counterclockwise when looking up.

The mounting ring is what connects the garbage disposer to the sink. There are mounting tabs (typically metal) where you can insert a screwdriver for leverage and grip. Insert the tool into the mounting tab, and turn counterclockwise.

If the mounting assembly is rusted, you may also need to use WD-40 in order to break it free.

Once loosened, the disposer should come down. Be ready to catch it if you didn’t place an upside down bucket or object directly underneath.

5. Loosen The Lower Mounting Ring and Snap Ring

The mounting assembly typically has three long screws that connect the lower mounting ring to the upper mounting ring.

You will need to use a screwdriver to evenly loosen the three screws until the mounting assembly can move freely.

The lower mounting ring cannot be removed without loosening the snap ring right just above it.

6. Loosen The Snap Ring

Locate the snap ring which is a type of clamp that is held together by compression, there are no screws.

The snap rings locks the entire mounting assembly in place with simple compression. This ring will need to be freed from the mount in order to disconnect the upper assembly.

Use a flathead to pry the entire snap ring out of its groove. Be careful because the ring can spring out suddenly and may cause injury.

Once the snap ring is freed, the entire mounting assembly should be loose and you can slide it down and off the sink flange.

7. Remove Old Sink Flange

I recommend always using the new sink flange that comes with the new disposer. Reusing the old sink flange can lead to leaks or alignment problems.

You can remove the sink flange by using a flathead screwdriver along the edges. Gently pry up the lip of the flange from inside your sink and try to avoid scratching the sink.

A hair dryer can be used to soften the plumber’s putty underneath the lip if you have trouble. There’s likely plumber’s putty underneath it so you may need to use force to break the seal. Be careful to avoid damaging your sink.

After removing, clean the underside of the sink of any debris or old plumber’s putty in order to create at tight seal.

8. Install New Sink Flange With Putty

sink flange for garbage disposer replacement

Apply plumber’s putty around the edge of the new flange.

Simply roll the plumber’s putty to about a quarter inch thickness. Press the new flange onto the sink opening creating a tight seal.

Remove any excess putty that gets pushed beyond the flange.

9. Install New Mounting Assembly

Slide the new rubber gasket onto the sink flange from underneath the sink.

Now slide the backup ring onto the gasket with the smooth side first.

You can now install the upper and lower mounting rings with the provided screws.

Don’t fully tighten the mounting rings because the snap ring still needs to be installed.

10. Install New Snap Ring

The snap ring should be secured after installing the mounting assembly which should move freely.

Secure the snap ring underneath the mounting assembly by snapping it fully into the groove at the bottom of sink flange.

11. Tighten The Mounting Assembly

how to replace garbage disposer

Insert the provided screws through the upper mounting ring.

Make sure that everything is aligned including the gasket, backup ring, and upper/lower mounting rings.

Tighten the screws evenly to ensure that the seal is tight and to avoid leaks.

12. Install New Disposer

how to install food waste disposal

Lift the new garbage disposer under the sink and align it’s mounting tabs with the lower mounting ring.

Turn the ring clockwise to tighten the ring onto the disposer. The new garbage disposer should hang freely once the mounting ring is tightened.

Verify that it doesn’t wobble when you push it and that it sits evenly.

If the disposer is misaligned, it can leak, cause excess noise, or prematurely wear out the motor.

13. Attach Drain Pipe

Connect the old drain pipe to the drain opening of the new disposer with the new bracket and gasket.

If you use the old rubber gasket, verify that there aren’t any cracks or deterioration to avoid leaks.

14. Attach Dishwasher Drain Hose

If you have a dishwasher, position the flex hose up to the new opening.

Make sure that the knockout plug is removed from the new disposer drain hole otherwise the dishwasher will overflow.

Tighten the metal bracket of the drain hose to create a tight fit.

15. Install A ‘High Loop’ On Drain Hose To Prevent Backup

It is important to install a high loop on the flexible drain hose.

A high loop simply means that the dishwasher drain hose is secured to the top of the cabinet to create an upside down U-shape.

The high loop helps prevent food debris from flowing back into the dishwasher.

16. Wire The Unit

If the disposer has a 3-pronged plug, insert it into the existing outlet. If you need to hardwire the unit, use wire nuts or quick connects to secure the wiring.

Please make sure that the wiring is in an electrical box to reduce shock and fire hazard of wiring underneath the sink. Neatly fold the wiring into the box with tight wire connections.

17. Run Water And Test

Turn on the sink faucet and carefully inspect for leaks around all connections.

Turn on the disposer with cold water running and re-check for leaks. You may also want to put in some food scraps to test operation.

The disposer should run smoothly without any wobbling or weird noises.

Tips on Preventative Maintenance

1. Only Use Cold Water During Operation

Grease is one of the main challenges for garbage disposers. Grease, fat, and oil can mix with food particles and cause jams.

I recommend using only cold water while running your disposer. Cold water helps solidify grease, allowing the grinding plate to chop it up and flush it through, rather than letting it stick to the disposer.

Additionally, cold water helps cool the motor and prevents overheating.

However, hot water can be used after running the disposer to help dissolve any leftover grease.

For more on maintaining your plumbing system, learn how to Take An Instant Hot Water Shower (Never Wait Again!)

2. Run Disposer Even When Not Using

It’s essential to run the garbage disposer at least once in a while even if you don’t use it.

Turning the disposer on with cold water helps to prevent rusting of components and from it seizing up.

3. Be Careful What You Put In It

Don’t be careless with the food scraps that you put in the disposer.

Things like bones, nut shells, fruit pits and other hard food waste can damage the flywheel. Don’t dump leftover cooking oil into it which can lead to jams.

Avoid overusing the disposer with large amounts of food waste.

4. Maintain It With Ice And Salt

On a periodic basis, I recommend cleaning the disposer with a bit of ice and rock salt.

The ice will help remove debris and clean the walls of the disposer as well as the grinding plate. Rock salt helps as an abrasive cleaner which breaks up any tiny food particles stuck to the machine.

5. Use Citrus Peels to Deodorize

A common tactic to help deodorize a sticky garbage disposer is to grind up some citrus peels.

Toss some orange, lemon, or lime peels into the disposer, run cold water, and grind them up. The essential oils in the peels will naturally deodorize the unit, eliminating foul odors.

Final Thoughts

A garbage disposer that isn’t working can really screw up your kitchen routine especially if doesn’t even drain water. However, most garbage disposer problems are fixable if you follow the tips outlined in this article.

The easiest fix is just resetting the unit and cleaning the grinding plate of debris. But sometimes there is a defective wall switch or outlet that interrupts power.

And once in a while, the disposer is on a GFCI circuit that needs to be reset either at a nearby kitchen outlet or even the electrical panel.

Did you have questions or tips for fixing a garbage disposer? Share them in the comments below.

I hope you enjoyed this guide by TimberSill!

References

Meet Your TimberSill Author

2 thoughts on “How To Reset, Fix, Or Replace Garbage Disposer (Can It Be Repaired?)”

Ask Me A Question! Or Leave A Comment...

More Guides From TimberSill